System Flushing

Improve the efficiency and extend the lifespan of your heating system with professional system flushing from Went's Heating Services Ltd. Serving Shropshire, Powys, and Herefordshire, we specialise in thorough system flushing that removes harmful debris and contaminants from your central heating system.

Our Gas Safe registered engineers use proven flushing techniques to clear sludge, rust, and limescale that accumulate over time and impair your system's performance. Unlike aggressive powerflushing, our careful approach effectively cleans your system while minimising the risk of disturbing existing leaks or causing damage to older pipework.

Experience more efficient heating, reduced energy bills, and improved system reliability with our professional flushing service.

Expert System Flushing Service

At Went's Heating Services Ltd, we've developed specialised expertise in thorough but gentle system flushing techniques. Our approach effectively removes harmful contaminants while avoiding the potential risks associated with high-pressure powerflushing methods, particularly in older heating systems.

Our system flushing service includes:

Comprehensive assessment of your heating system
Controlled flushing using effective cleansing chemicals
Multiple rinse cycles to ensure thorough cleaning
Installation of magnetic filters for ongoing protection
Addition of inhibitor to prevent future corrosion

Why System Flushing Matters

Over time, heating systems accumulate various contaminants that impact performance and efficiency:

Removing Harmful Sludge

Black iron oxide sludge naturally forms as radiators and pipework corrode internally. This sludge settles in radiators and heat exchangers, creating cold spots, reducing efficiency, and causing circulation problems. Our flushing process effectively removes this debris, restoring proper flow and heat distribution throughout your system.

Eliminating Limescale

In hard water areas, limescale builds up within your heating system, particularly affecting boiler heat exchangers. This scale creates a layer of insulation that prevents efficient heat transfer, forces your boiler to work harder, and increases energy consumption. System flushing dissolves and removes this scale, improving heat exchange efficiency.

Removing Flux Residue

New heating systems can contain residual soldering flux from installation, which can cause corrosion if not properly removed. Our flushing process thoroughly cleanses new systems before full operation, preventing early corrosion and protecting your investment from the start.

Preventing Premature Component Failure

Circulating debris can damage pumps, valves, and heat exchangers, leading to costly repairs and shortened system lifespan. By removing these contaminants, system flushing helps prevent premature component failure and extends the operational life of your entire heating system.

When System Flushing Is Recommended

We typically recommend system flushing in the following situations:

Before installing a new boiler to prevent contamination of the new appliance
When radiators have cold spots despite bleeding
If your heating system is slow to warm up or noisy
When some radiators heat poorly while others work fine
If your boiler frequently needs pressure topping up
As preventative maintenance for systems over 5 years old
When moving into a property with an existing heating system of unknown history

FAQs

How often should a heating system be flushed?

For most domestic heating systems, we recommend a system flush every 5-6 years as preventative maintenance. However, systems with no magnetic filter installed may benefit from more frequent flushing (every 3-4 years). New boiler installations should always include a system flush to prevent existing contaminants from damaging your new appliance, and any time you experience symptoms of sludge build-up (cold spots, poor circulation, noise), flushing is advisable.

How long does system flushing take?

A typical system flush takes between 4-8 hours, depending on system size, complexity, and the level of contamination. Larger properties with more radiators or heavily contaminated systems may require longer. We'll provide a more specific time estimate after assessing your particular system. While it's a time-intensive process, thorough flushing avoids the need to rush and ensures a comprehensive clean.

How much does system flushing cost?

Our system flushing service typically costs between £350-£550, depending on the size of your heating system and the number of radiators. This includes all necessary cleaning chemicals, a new magnetic filter installation (worth approximately £120), system inhibitor, and a full system check. When performed as part of a new boiler installation, we offer discounted rates. We provide detailed, transparent quotes following an assessment of your specific system.

Will system flushing fix cold radiators?

In most cases, yes. Cold spots on radiators, particularly at the bottom, are typically caused by sludge accumulation that blocks proper water flow. System flushing effectively removes this debris, restoring proper circulation and heat distribution. After flushing, radiators typically heat up more quickly, reach higher temperatures, and heat more evenly across their entire surface. If cold spots persist after flushing, this may indicate a different issue such as balancing problems or trapped air.

Is system flushing safe for all heating systems?

System flushing is generally safe for all heating systems when performed correctly. Our careful approach uses standard mains pressure rather than the high-pressure techniques used in powerflushing, making it suitable even for older systems. We take extra precautions with systems over 15 years old, those with known vulnerabilities, or where microbore pipework is present. Before beginning, we'll thoroughly assess your system and recommend the most appropriate approach.

What are the benefits of system flushing?

System flushing offers numerous benefits including: improved heating efficiency (typically 15-20% more efficient), reduced energy bills, faster heating response, more even heat distribution, quieter system operation, extended boiler and component lifespan, reduced maintenance needs, and fewer breakdowns. Additionally, magnetic filter installation provides ongoing protection, while system inhibitor prevents future corrosion. The investment typically pays for itself through energy savings and avoided repair costs.

Do I need to prepare my home for system flushing?

Minimal preparation is required. We recommend ensuring clear access to your boiler, radiators, and system access points. While we're very careful and use protective coverings, it's advisable to move any valuable or delicate items away from radiators as a precaution. Your heating will be non-operational during the flushing process, so choose a day when this won't cause significant inconvenience. We'll need access to an outside drain point and a water supply connection to perform the flush effectively.

Professional System Flushing in Shropshire

Restore your heating system's efficiency with expert system flushing from Went's Heating Services Ltd.

View Other Services Book Your System Flush