Frequently Asked Heating Questions

Heating has become so expensive, what can I do to reduce my energy bills?

Aside from being more frugal with the amount of energy you are using, you can follow the steps below and they should help to make your system more efficient.

• Flush your heating system to keep it clean and avoid spending money heating dirt and debris in your pipes.
• Install smart thermostats/controls to have greater control over how your heating is being used (times/schedules).
• Upgrade your boiler to a newer model as technology is ever evolving and becoming more efficient, as well as having extended warranties.
• Insulate pipework where needed to avoid heat escaping from your pipes.
• Install thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) which give you the ability to shut off radiators that aren't in use or set certain rooms to specific temperatures using your heating system more efficiently.

What type of boiler do I have?

There are 3 main types of natural gas boilers: combi, heat only and system. A combi boiler is everything in one small package, it heats your hot water and your heating system; a heat only boiler is usually found on older systems (gravity fed systems) and is normally paired with a hot water cylinder in your airing cupboard; a system boiler is very similar to a heat only boiler but on more modern heating systems, it is also paired with a hot water cylinder in your airing cupboard, however, the heating system is pressurised.

Why are my pipes making a noise?

This could be due to many different causes. In some older properties, the clips or brackets holding the pipe down may have come loose over the years, however, in some properties it could be restrictions or debris in the pipework that is restricting flow, causing the noise.

What does a smart thermostat do?

There are many different types of smart thermostat that offer many different functions and energy saving features from controlling your heating system via a smartphone or Geo-location to reading room temperatures accurately. This information is then relayed back to the boiler to allow it to deliver heat in the most efficient way possible.

What type of radiators do I need?

There are many answers to this question as it will vary between households due to personal style and choice, size of the room you are trying to heat and the thermo-efficiency of the room the radiator is housed in. It's best to drop me a message or call to discuss this further.

With ever-changing government guidance is it wise to buy a new gas boiler?

As the government guidelines have not been set in stone and no technology has been singled out as the way forward in heating, engineers and consumers alike are having to decide what technology is most affordable and most suitable for their hot water and heating needs. For further information on this topic, you might find this link helpful: https://www.edfenergy.com/heating/advice/uk-boiler-ban.

Does my heating system need to be flushed?

Heating systems are meant to be drained every few years and topped up with fresh water and inhibitor to maintain a healthy system. However, most properties have not had this done so may require flushing/cleaning out to restore them back to their most efficient outputs.