Do I Need To Power Flush My Central Heating System?


The need for power flushing comes from a build-up of oxide sludge and calcium in the central heating system. 

Sludge or calcium build up in a heating system means there could be an underlining problem that’s allowing air to get into the central heating system, causing radiators and heat exchangers to corrode. 

This leaves rust and debris in the bottom of radiators which corrodes down into oxide sludge. This then leads to blocked waterways in radiators, pipe work and heat exchangers. 

Blockages slow down the transfer of heat which causes pipe, valve and heating control server damage. It will, in some cases, lead to boiler replacement. 

Be warned: changing your boiler without power flushing your heating system first could lead to you needing another boiler in the near future! This also applies to the controls which may have also been replaced on the system - it will render your manufactures guarantee void. 

So, do you need a power flush? 

  • Here’s a number of symptoms to look out for: 
  • Boiler switching on and off frequently (aka “cycling”) 
  • Boiler constantly breaking down 
  • If you have a combination boiler you may notice that the hot water keeps getting hot and then cold. A non-stable temperature may continue to get worse, until you do not get any hot water at all..
  • Boiler making banging and/or knocking noises 
  • Central heating radiators taking a long time to heat up 
  • Radiators getting cold spots 
  • Radiators not getting very hot when the pipe work is getting hot 
  • House always feels cold even when the heating’s on 
  • Boiler making “kettling" noise (resembles a kettle boiling) 

What happens if I don’t power flush my central heating system? 

Boilers can become so damaged that they’ll be deemed uneconomical to repair, requiring a replacement 

  • The efficiency of the system will be affected, costing you lots of money in fuel and system repair bills 
  • Cause mechanical failure of pumps, motorised valves, heat exchangers and hydraulic systems in boilers 
  • Pin holes will form in radiators and heat exchangers, requiring replacement or repair. Oxide sludge is like black muddy oil, so will damage anything it comes into contact with, such as carpets, worktops and flooring if it leaks or spills. 

What benefits can you expect after power flushing?

Good news! There’s many benefits to power flushing your central heating: 

  • Faster radiator “heating up” time 
  • All radiators produce more heat 
  • Boiler runs quieter 
  • Overall central heating system quieter 
  • No cold spots on radiators 
  • Cheaper gas bill – making your money stretch further 
  • Better hot water temperatures 
  • Less risk of breakdown 
  • More reliable and efficient central heating system, giving you a warmer house at less cost 

Our power flushing services are priced competitively and come with a full guarantee. Contact us today to organise a power flush for your central heating system and boiler, get a fast quote or speak to our staff for some friendly advice. Alternatively, find out more about us or review our customer testimonials.