Boiler FAQs & Service Guide – Tyne & Wear Heating in South Shields

A combi boiler is a type of boiler that heats both your home and water directly from the unit. This means you don’t need a separate water tank, which saves you space in your home. Combi boilers are popular in the UK and can save you money on installations and hot water expenses. Plus, you can enjoy strong showers without needing a pump. Just make sure you use a thermostatically-controlled shower to avoid sudden changes in water temperature.

If you are replacing a traditional boiler and cylinder with a combi boiler, it's important to check if your existing shower is suitable. Your previous shower might have been designed for low-pressure systems and had a pump-assisted power shower. With combi boilers producing hot water at mains pressure, they are compatible with a mains pressure balanced or thermostatically controlled shower.

Combi boilers heat water directly from the mains, which means that when you turn on the tap, the water comes out without any additional air. However, during heating, the water's calcium bicarbonate can turn into calcium carbonate, creating carbon dioxide that appears as bubbles. This is a normal aesthetic effect and doesn't affect the quality or taste of the water. If you let the water cool down in a glass, the bubbles will disappear. This phenomenon is more common in hard water areas and in models with slower or lower flow rates.

Bleeding a radiator involves releasing any trapped air that may be preventing the hot water from circulating effectively. To begin, turn off your heating system and allow the radiators to cool down completely. Locate the bleed valve at the top of the radiator and prepare a towel or container to catch any water that may spill out. Using a radiator key or a flathead screwdriver, turn the bleed valve slowly counterclockwise until you hear a hissing sound indicating air is escaping. Once water begins to flow steadily, tighten the valve back up and move onto the next radiator if necessary. Finally, turn your heating system back on and check to see if the radiators are heating up properly.

To repressurize a boiler, you will need to locate the filling loop valve, which is usually located near the boiler. Make sure that the boiler is switched off and then open both valves on the filling loop. You should hear water entering the system. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge and stop filling the system once the pressure reaches the recommended level (usually around 1-1.5 bar). Once you have finished, close both valves on the filling loop and switch the boiler back on to check that everything is working correctly.

The recommended boiler pressure varies depending on the type and model of your boiler. However, in general, the ideal boiler pressure should be between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold. It's important to regularly check the boiler pressure to ensure that it is within the correct range. If the pressure is too high or too low, it can cause problems with the system, such as leaks or insufficient heating.

Generally, a well-maintained boiler can last between 10 to 15 years, while some models can even last up to 20 years or more. However, if a boiler is not maintained properly or experiences frequent breakdowns, its lifespan can be significantly shortened. Take a look at our blog for more information https://tyneandwearheating.co.uk/how-long-should-a-boiler-last/.

If your boiler keeps losing pressure, it should be due to a number of reasons: the most common cause is a leak somewhere in the system such as a pipe/valve or radiator. Over time, these leaks can cause pressure to drop. Another potential cause includes a faulty expansion vessel or a problem with your pressure gauge. Get in touch today!

Take a look at our boiler installation guide for more information https://tyneandwearheating.co.uk/boiler-installation-guide/

Are you wondering how to reset a Worcester boiler? Well no worries we have the perfect blog for you take a read today https://tyneandwearheating.co.uk/how-to-reset-a-worcester-boiler/

Our blog has all the answers to your questions take a peek today https://tyneandwearheating.co.uk/when-should-a-landlord-replace-a-boiler/

Consider factors such as your property’s size, hot water demand, energy efficiency ratings, warranty offered, and the type of boiler suitable for your heating system.

The duration of a new boiler installation can vary depending on the type of boiler and the complexity of the job. On average, it can take between one to three days.

It depends on the compatibility of your current radiators with the new boiler. Upgrading or replacing old radiators may be recommended to optimise the system’s efficiency.

It depends on the flue’s compatibility with the new boiler. In some cases, modifications or a new flue may be required to meet the boiler’s requirements.

Boiler manufacturers and heating experts recommend annual boiler servicing to ensure its safety and efficiency.

Boiler servicing should only be performed by Gas Safe registered engineers or qualified professionals. DIY servicing is not recommended for safety reasons.

Yes, regular boiler servicing can improve the boiler’s efficiency by identifying and addressing issues that may hinder its performance.

Signs include strange noises, leaks, fluctuating pressure, inadequate heating, or frequent pilot light issues.

Boiler repairs should be left to qualified professionals to avoid safety hazards and further damage.

If you notice any issues with your boiler, it’s best to address them promptly to prevent further damage and avoid prolonged downtime.

Plumbing emergencies include burst pipes, major leaks, blocked drains, sewage backups, and a lack of hot water in extreme weather conditions.

While non-emergency issues can often wait, it’s best to address significant plumbing problems promptly to prevent the worsening of the situation.

Many plumbing companies offer 24/7 emergency services. Keep emergency contact numbers of reputable plumbing firms handy.

Emergency plumbing services may incur additional charges due to their immediate response and after-hours availability.