14 Steps To Keep Your Heating & Hot Water Systems Optimised

Over time, your heating and hot water systems can become hindered by deposit build-ups, reduced calibration, component faults and other factors which affect their efficiency and/ or operation.

Whether you’re basking in the warmth of summer or bundling up during the colder months, a well-maintained heating system is key to a comfortable and energy-efficient living space.

Here’s an overview of what checks we would suggest you carry out, to help keep your systems running smoothly.

Solar Thermal / PV Panels

If your heating system utilises solar power, maintaining the efficiency of your solar panels is crucial. The use of Propylene Glycol antifreeze is common, offering protection against corrosion, freezing temperatures, and even overheating. Contrary to a common misconception, solar panels can still generate power during the winter months, so to uphold its effectiveness all year round, it is recommended to have your system checked thoroughly, by a competent engineer, at least every five years.

Solid Fuel

For those with solid fuel systems like wood burners and multifuel stoves, a comprehensive check is necessary. The chimney / flue should be regularly swept to maintain optimal operation and reduce the risk of chimney fires. Additionally, these appliances should undergo an annual service to guarantee their efficiency.

Heat Pumps and Boilers

Heat Pumps and Boilers (including renewable energy biomass boilers) play pivotal roles in modern heating systems. Regular, professional servicing, ideally on an annual basis, is essential to maintain their efficiency and longevity.

Radiators

If your home is one of the millions that use Radiators for its space heating, you should occasionally check them for trapped air by opening the bleed valve. Once water starts coming through, you’ll know that all of the air has been released. This will ensure that you’re getting effective heat distribution throughout the system.

Underfloor Heating

Similar to radiators, underfloor heating systems will also occasionally need bleeding. They may also benefit from power-flushing, which uses high-pressure warm water and anti-corrosive chemicals, to dislodge any rust or sludge that may have become lodged in the pipework.

Immersion Heaters

In electronic hot water and heating systems, a key focus should be on immersion heaters. Regular checking of their correct operating temperature avoids unnecessary energy costs. Excessive heat can also deteriorate the insulation around an immersion heater, leading to further inefficiencies.

Thermal Stores

Components like mixing valves, expansion vessels, float valves (if combination type) and safety valves need attention to maintain the overall health, operation, and longevity of Thermal Stores.

Unvented Cylinder

An annual service is important if you have an Unvented Cylinder. Not only does it ensure that all of the safety features of the cylinder are doing their jobs correctly, but it also maintains your manufacturer’s guarantee.

If a fault with an unvented cylinder develops within its warranty period but it hasn’t been serviced, most manufacturers won’t even entertain a claim. This is because there’s a good chance that it will have failed due to stress fatigue – something that can be protected against by regular servicing.

Inspect Pipes, Joints, and Connections

If certain areas of your house are not adequately heated or insulated (loft spaces, garages, etc,) it is advisable to insulate the water pipes. Not only does this improve the efficiency of any heating pipes (by reducing heat loss), but it also protects the cold ones from frost damage.

General Wear, Damage, or Corrosion

Regardless of the type of heating system, regular checks for general wear and tear, damage, or corrosion are advised to ensure longevity and efficient operation.

Smart Heating Controls

For those with smart heating systems, assess and update the settings on your smart thermostat. Consider programming schedules to optimise energy usage based on your daily routines.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your heating system involves the combustion of fossil fuels, such as in a gas boiler, ensure that carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functioning correctly. Safety is paramount.

Seasonal Adjustments

Consider making seasonal adjustments to your heating system settings. For instance, lower your temperature settings as the weather warms up. If you’re going to be away for a period of time it may be worth turning the heating much lower than usual, but generally speaking, it’s more efficient to keep the heat topped up than to reheat from cold.

Loft Insulation & Draught Proofing

Reduce the amount of time your heat source(s) have to run by keeping the heat in your house for longer. Add extra loft insulation and ensure that you have eliminated any heat leak points around your doors and windows. Overall, this will increase the lifespan of your appliances and lower your energy bills.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your heating and hot water systems are operating efficiently and effectively. This type of planned, regular maintenance prevents unexpected breakdowns, giving you more reliable and hassle-free systems.

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Stay warm, stay efficient.