Flush central heating when adding a rad?

[jaydh]

Hi

I have had a quote from a plumber to add a couple of radiators to a conservatory and in the quote, he said he needs to flush the central heating system. The system was installed about 6 years ago and probably hasnt been flushed in this time.

Does the system need to be flushed when adding new rads?

Thanks

Jamie

 

[diamondgas]

Technically yes, Jamie! New pipework will have within it some residue or other and if they're soldering fittings then they'll need to flush out the flux used in the process! IMO

 

[wheeto]

Yes, and there are British Standards defining "flush"!

 

[kay-jay]

in the real world i doubt that it happens very often just for adding a couple of rads! if the system is sealed (combi) as corrosion will be minimal and draining the system will usually suffice......

 

[diamondgas]

:iagree: in the real world there would be few who would add the price of flushing, especially with a powerflush machine as I doubt they'd get many takers ... lol

 

[jaydh]

On his quote, he wrote 'drain down heating system'. It is a combi boiler I have.

 

[diamondgas]

On his quote, he wrote 'drain down heating system'. It is a combi boiler I have.

Draining down is a bit different to flushing Jamie ... sometimes we add stuff like drain and refill, add new inhibitor fit thermostatic rad valves ...etc ... Those sort of things give you a better idea of what you're paying for rather than just quoting "fit a couple of radiators!" Then you thinking "HOW MUCH???"

 

[kay-jay]

if all your rads are working fine with no cold spots etc, a drain down will suffice. it is not a flush per se just emptying the system so water don't pee everywhere when he cuts into pipework to add your rads. this is necessary!

if he has itemised a 'flush' then this isn't necessary as long as your rads work

 

[jaydh]

Sorry for the confusion! Does it mean just draining it of water so he can work on it?

Thanks for clearing it up.

 

[kay-jay]

yes mate!

 

[jaydh]

Thanks!