Power Flush
The engineer coming to install your new boiler, is forcing you to pay for a power flush. You ask yourself, do I really need it done? What would happen if a power flush was not instructed when installing a new boiler? One of the possible implications are that the manufacture would void the warranty of the boiler, on their first visit when something goes wrong. If their company engineer finds that the system shows signs of not compiling to pre-commissioning regulations, they are entitled to charge for a call-out. These call out charges can range from £150 to £200. Some manufactures have been charging these fees before coming to the property. The requirement state that cleansing must take place before the installation of the new boiler and it must be accordance with British Standard number:7593. This does not mean that a power flush has to be carried out to adhere to the British Standards. The definition of this British Standard is that the appropriate measures are taken to make sure the system is clean and protected from corrosion. Which means there isn’t a one rule that applies to all heating systems.
To comply with the regulations I believe there are 3 different methods. The first one being the 5 F’s, now I know you have heard of the 5 P’s, but what are the 5 F’s? They stand for: fill flush, fill heat flush, then fill again. This is the least preferred method in my view, but it is the bare minimum which any engineers should be doing on your installer. If the 5 F’s didn’t make sense there is more information on our web site. For those who were lost on the 5 P’s, I’ll explain that also. I believe this to be very important in all foams of life, here is what it stands for: Perfect, planning, prevents, pathetic, performances. This was taught to us at school, which still helps me today.
The other methods are using the appropriate cleanser and inhibitors. This is the method many engineers advise their customers if there don't have a power flush machine. The method which I recommend to all my customers is doing a power flush. Most engineers prefer the power flush as this can assure a thoroughly cleaned system, if carried out by a experienced plumber. This is also the most expensive procedure from the above. This method can prevent issues arising in the future. I view the system water in a central heating system as blood running in our bodies. When our blood gradually builds up fatty material within the arteries, our heart has to work at a higher rate. Eventually this fatty material becomes dislodged from the lining of the arteries and can lead to a blood clot. Just like this the sludge deposits in the central heating system will eventually cause the boiler pump to fail. Fortunately you are able to prevent this, not by regular exercising and a healthy diet but by insuring your system is thoroughly cleaned and protected when installed. Regular services on the system and checks will also determine the condition of the water circulation in the system. Chemical test kits are available to measure corrosion potential of a system, and the rate of corrosion taking place. If you are thinking of power flushing your heating system, before a heart attack takes place read up on it. For more information visit our London Heating Repairs website. For Friendly advise call or email Plumbers London.