Feeling curious about whether it’s time to upgrade your central heating system, rather than just getting a new boiler?
What I mean by that is actually stripping out everything you currently have – including the boiler, pipework, valves, radiators and controls – and starting again.
Sounds a bit drastic, doesn’t it? But if you have an old, inefficient system that’s currently prone to blockages, leaks or radiators that just don’t heat properly, it could actually be your best option.
As an experienced heating engineer, I’m going to explain three scenarios where you’d be better to upgrade your central heating system – not just your boiler.
1. You’ve got an old one-pipe system
Firstly, if you have an old one-pipe system and you’re experiencing a lot of the issues I mentioned about (like leaks, blockages and sludge build-up) then changing this to a two-pipe system will essentially involve as much work as it would to replace all of your pipework.
If your radiators are also original and quite old, it’d be better to opt for newer, high efficiency ones.
2. You’ve got 8mm microbore pipework
If you have 8mm microbore pipework, you may find some of your pipework is blocked, or your boiler is kettling and turning off before your home is heated.
Again, in this case it’s genuinely better to replace your system – and more cost-effective, too. This is because you could replace the pipework just to find that your radiators still don’t work.
3. Your pipework’s had a few additions/alterations
If your central heating system has been altered or had bits added numerous times, this can lead to a mishmash of different sizes of pipework, and variously different types of radiators. Perhaps your boiler has even been previously moved, or replaced in a different position.
This can mean there’s a lot of excess pipework and weak joints. You’ll also probably find that some radiators are getting hotter than others, in which case it’s better to start again.
Advice from an experienced heating engineer
You know that old saying ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it?’ – Well, there’s also no point trying to fix something that’s well and truly broke. The best thing to do is to be completely honest with your engineer; that way they can find the best solution for you.
I just visited a job yesterday where the boiler was fitted 24 years ago. It was a regular boiler with a one-pipe system and all laminate flooring. Some of the pipework is weak, and there are tear drops of water at the compression joints.
A different engineer had recommended fitting a system boiler in the attic, however, I recommended replacing the system. If the client decides to go with the other company, it will be a lot of trouble for both them and the installer (as the pipework would still have to be upgraded), so I truly believe the best thing to do is start again with a new system.
Remember, if an engineer has recommended a completely new system, there’s a good reason for this. But have a good think about it; ask other engineers their opinion. Point out that others think it’s a one-pipe system, or tell them about the problems you’ve been having.
The last thing you need is to be in a pickle halfway through your boiler replacement.
Conclusion
Does replacing your entire system sound a bit drastic? There are three main scenarios in which it’s probably best to replace your central heating system system and start again.
These are:
- You’ve got an old one-pipe system
- You’ve got 8mm microbore pipework
- Your pipework’s had a few additions/alterations
If you’re feeling at all unsure about whether or not you need to upgrade your central heating system, always get at least 2 – 3 fixed price, detailed quotations, and see what each heating engineer says. They should be able to listen to the problems you’ve been having, and help you decide what’s right for you.
Do you have any questions about this particular topic? If so, I’d be happy to answer them. Just leave me a comment below!
