Heating systems can become restricted from time to time thanks to a build up of rust and corrosion, reducing their efficiency and increasing energy bills. Magnetic system filters can help to combat this build-up and expand the lifespan of your boiler.
Heating systems can become restricted from time to time thanks to a build up of rust and corrosion, reducing their efficiency and increasing energy bills.
Magnetic system filters can help to combat this build-up and expand the lifespan of your boiler.
What is a magnetic system filter?
A magnetic system filter is a device within a heating system that collects magnetic debris. Rust and corrosion commonly form in pipes and radiators over time and the debris from this forms with other debris, causing a sludge-like substance.
This substance can block pipes and cause other issues in the system, causing it to work less efficiently and potentially causing breakdowns.
A magnetic system filter attracts the corroded metals to stop them from building up. This filter allows the water to continue flowing as normal and keeps your heating system as cost-efficient as possible.
Do I need a filter on my boiler?
There are a few signs that suggest a magnetic filter would be beneficial on your boiler. These signs include:
Cold spots on your radiators
Strange boiler noises, such as banging and gurgling sounds
Regular leaks
Issues related to inconsistent temperatures
Issues with hot water
The longer these issues are left without being fixed, the more damage they are likely to inflict on your boiler. A magnetic filter will help to combat these issues and can protect your boiler from the effects of sludge build up.
However, significant build-up cannot be fixed with a filter and in more severe cases, a full system cleanse should be carried out by a professional heating engineer.
It is now a requirement under building regulations to have a magnetic system filter installed as part of any new boiler installation. We will therefore always install a magnetic system filter with any new boiler installation.
How do system filters work?
Magnetic system filters work by extracting the rust minerals from the water as it travels through your heating system, helping to prevent sludge from forming.
The filter attracts iron and steel components from the rust, keeping the system clear of sludge. System filters are preventative measures to keep your system clear, rather than a cure to remove the sludge.
Are magnetic filters worth having?
Yes, magnetic filters are worth having since they help to prevent harmful sludge from building up in your heating system.
Filters can help to keep your heating system running smoothly, preventing the need for expensive repairs or system flushes due to a build up of rust and corrosion.
Fitting a magnetic system filter to your boiler could bring you many benefits, such as:
More efficient heating system
Lower energy bills
Reduced carbon footprint
Reduced risk of needing repairs
Longer boiler lifespan
How do you clean a magnetic filter?
There are a few steps to follow when cleaning your magnetic system filter. We do recommend getting a heating engineer to carry out this work as part of your annual boiler service.
Turn off the electricity supply
Before you do anything, you’ll need to turn off your boiler’s electricity supply and ensure you have something to cover up your floor. This will ensure no sludge or dirty water falls onto your floor.
Be sure to switch off the isolation valves too.
Remove the lid
To remove the lid off the magnetic filter, you’ll likely need to unscrew it. You may need to put in some extra force as your magnetic filter may be screwed extra tight for security.
You may even have a device from your installer to help remove the lid.
Remove the magnet
When you’ve opened the lid, you’ll be able to identify the magnet and the filter. A dirty filter will have sludge and debris around it, so it will be obvious where you need to clean. Make sure you remove the magnet before you begin cleaning it.
Clean the filter
The most effective way to clean the filter is by using a high pressure hose to remove the dirt and debris. Take extra care to thoroughly clean the filter so no debris is put back into the system.
Replace the magnet and lid
When complete, place the magnet safely back into the filter and fit the lid on as tightly as possible. Then put your filter back in its place, reopen the valves and turn on your boiler.
Getting a magnetic filter installed
If you’re looking to prolong the life of your boiler and reduce the amount of sludge in your heating system, then a magnetic filter may be the best solution for you. Not only can it save you money on your bills, but it will ensure your boiler is running as efficiently as possible.
If you’d like a magnetic filter installed, or you have any other questions about magnetic filters, contact us today. One of our qualified heating engineers will be able to answer any questions you may have.
With their range of colours and styles, designer radiators are an ideal solution to bring eye-catching yet functional designs to your home. Not only are designer radiators a great way to showcase your personal aesthetic, they’re an investment worth making if you’re looking for high performance heating.
Designer radiators, sometimes known as modern radiators or contemporary radiators, offer a stylish solution to traditional radiators whilst still providing heat and warmth to any room.
They come in a variety of different styles, colours and sizes, meaning you will always be able to find a style which suits your home or office aesthetic.
Which type of radiator is the most efficient?
Aluminium is the most efficient type of radiator since it is excellent at conducting heat, meaning it heats up to the desired room temperature very quickly. This means that less energy is used in bringing the material up to a desired temperature when compared with other metals commonly used for radiators.
Thanks to its thermal qualities, aluminium radiators generally use lower amounts of water than its competitor metals. Again, this means that less energy is used to heat the water and pump it round your heating system, and less water is used overall.
What are the different types of designer radiators
There are a range of different designer radiators to choose from to suit your home or office space. Some of the most popular types include:
Designer radiators are extremely efficient since most of them use high performance steel or aluminium, delivering effective heating and driving down your energy bills.
Aluminium in particular is a super conductor that heats up almost instantly, and remains highly responsive to thermostatic changes while using less water than other styles of radiator.
Households can save as much as 15% in terms of energy saving when compared to radiators that use other metals. This kind of saving can help lead to a large reduction in heating bills over the course of a year.
Do designer radiators give enough heat?
As much as designer radiators look great in your home, sometimes, they won’t offer the same heating performance as a standard radiator.
This doesn’t need to be an issue though, and it can be an easy fix. Provided you know how much output you need to heat your room, you can work out which are the best radiators for heat output. A good heating company should be able to advise on the correct size and heat output for your bome. Not only will your radiator look great, but it will also do a great job of getting your room toasty warm.
Although it doesn’t make a significant difference, certain colours of radiators, like chrome or black, are less efficient than standard white radiators.
Are designer radiators warmer than normal radiators?
As a rule of thumb, designer radiators won’t typically give out the same heat as normal or standard-style radiators.
A lot of designer radiators don’t have convection fins, which means they don’t circulate the warm air they create as effectively as standard radiators.
Vertical radiators won’t give out the same heat output as horizontal radiators since they don’t have the same length to draw cold air up for convection.
Where should I fit designer radiators?
Regardless of whether your radiator is designer or not, it should still always be fitted in the coldest part of the room.
This used to be under windows, but thanks to modern double-glazed homes, this may not be the coldest spot anymore. You can put radiators where they won’t affect the usage of walls, which is why many people choose to have vertical radiators since they don’t take up too much room.
Do designer radiators add value to a home?
Not only do designer radiators enhance your interior design, but they can also add value to your home too.
Regardless of aesthetics, heating a home efficiently is important for buyers and new, designer radiators will make the property look much more appealing.
Not only this, designer radiators can add style to certain homes. For example, adding traditional style cast iron radiators to period properties can really complement the space and add further style that potential buyers look for.
Installing designer radiators
Installing designer radiators can add a lot of value to your home, both in terms of your own personal aesthetic and the price of your house. If you’re looking to replace your old radiators with new, designer radiators, it’s important you get the right help.
At Lacey Plumbing & Heating, we can advise on the correct size radiators for your home, supply and install your new radiators, fitting them in a suitable position so your rooms are heated efficiently and effectively. Get in touch with the team today.
A radiator which is cold at the bottom but hot at the top is an issue, and it can leave your house feeling cold. You may want to initially turn up the thermostat, but this means your boiler will be using more fuel to reach a higher temperature.
Radiators become cold at the bottom when something stops the flow of water – this is likely to be sludge but there are also other reasons.
Over time, the hot water that flows through the metal pipes of the heating system leads to limescale and rust. These particles eventually accumulate into the thick, black substance, known as sludge, settling at the bottom of the radiator.
It may be the case that only one radiator has a bad sludge blockage, but as a central heating system is a circuit, other radiators may become cold too.
Central Heating Pump not working correctly
In conventional systems, a key part of the heating system is a central heating pump. It needs to be in good working order. If your radiators are taking longer to heat up, this could be a sign that the central heating pump is failing.
You need to call a heating engineer to take a look at this and tests can be carried out to see how your pump is functioning. If your pump isn’t functioning properly or has failed, we can provide a quote for a replacement.
Trapped air in your heating system
In these circumstances, your radiators are likely to be warm at the bottom but cold at the top. Air can often be trapped inside your radiators, especially after your heating has been turned off over the summer.
It makes sense to get your boiler serviced and heating system tested at the end of Summer or during the Autumn, before Winter kicks in. You can then ensure your system and boiler is in good working order ready for its busiest time of year.
There are many different types of radiators, meaning you may have a tough choice when deciding what to replace your old ones with.
Don’t worry too much about this, as we can advise you on the most suitable radiators for your home.
Central Heating Radiators
Central heating radiators use corrugated panels to radiate heat into a room, and tend to be the most popular choice due to their high efficiency and compact design.
You can get either single-panel style radiators for small rooms, or double-panel ones for larger rooms which produce more heat.
Column Radiators
Column radiators are great for anyone looking to add a classic period look to their home.
They have a traditional aesthetic, yet the modern models offer great heat distribution and efficiency.
Designer Radiators
Classic central heating radiators can ruin the look of your home, especially if you are aiming for a specific aesthetic.
Stylish, contemporary radiators are space savers, whilst also providing functionality by doubling up as mirrors, memo boards and much more.
Designer radiators are one of our most requested new radiator installations. We can advise you on where to look to get an idea of the style that you like and what size and heat output you need for your designer radiators.
Vertical Radiators
When wall space is limited, vertical radiators are a saving grace. They can fit perfectly onto small wall spaces, meaning you can heat your home where you previously may not have been able to.
They also come in a range of designs and colours, meaning you can find one to suit your home aesthetic.
Towel Radiators
Towel radiators have become a must for many, due to the fact you can dry your towels whilst also heating your bathroom.
They act as a stylish, space-saving solution, whereas in the past, they were always chrome; you can now get a variety of different styles and colours.
Cast Iron Radiators
Cast iron radiators are perfect for period homes with high ceilings. They remain warm for longer, whilst also providing a good contrast with modern decor.
Flat Panel Radiators
Flat panel radiators are light, compact and can fit into almost any room without taking up a vast amount of space.
Stainless Steel Radiators
Stainless steel does not rust or corrode like other metals do, meaning a stainless steel radiator is guaranteed to last a long time.
They are efficient, low maintenance and come in various different finishes.
Space Saving Radiators
A space-saving radiator is a great option if you don’t have a lot of room and want to make the most of your space.
They can fit into narrow spaces and even wrap around corners!
How to fix radiators that are cold at the bottom
Radiators that are cold at the bottom require urgent attention. There are a couple of options to take, but both must be carried out by a qualified heating engineer.
Powerflush
Power Flushing involves a chemical being circulated around the heating system at a high pressure. This process frees any blockages to allow the hot water to flow freely to your radiators, and can take around 6 to 10 hours in total.
A heating engineer will connect a pump to the central heating system. The chemical is pumped through the pipework at a high speed to break down the sludge.
Depending on how bad the blockage is, engineers may also need to use tools on the outside of the radiator to dislodge pieces. It is also possible to manually remove each radiator from the heating system and clean them out without a machine. Ask your heating engineer for the best option for your system.
Chemical Flush
A chemical flush involves chemicals being circulated through the central heating system, but not at a high pressure like a powerflush. As the chemicals are flushed through the system, they remove any build-up of dirt, limescale and debris.
The chemicals can be left in the system for about an hour or so, sometimes even upto a week, and once they have done their job, the system is fully drained and then refilled with clean water and a chemical inhibitor. When you have your boiler changed, this type of chemical flush should be carried out as it’s a requirement from boiler manufacturers.
If just one radiator is cold at the bottom, this means there is only a build up of sludge affecting the direct flow of hot water to that radiator.
The hot water is not reaching the whole radiator due to this sludge while the central heating is on. The sludge usually sits in the middle and the bottom of the radiator.
In the majority of cases, if it is just a single radiator which is cold at the bottom, it likely just needs a good clean!
Cleaning radiators can be a tricky job, so it’s best to contact one of our registered engineers for assistance.
Multiple radiators are cold at the bottom
If multiple of your radiators are cold at the bottom, this is likely to be caused by a buildup of sludge throughout the central heating system.
If you think this is the case, you should also contact a heating engineer who can run a diagnostic on your heating system. Once they have established the issue, they can add a chemical cleaner to be flushed through your heating system.
Alternatively, if you wish to fix it yourself, you can add a chemical cleaner yourself to the radiator system and let it run for about an hour or so, flush it out and then replace the water.
We strongly recommend that you instruct a heating engineer to carry out work on your central heating system, especially when adding chemicals to the system as they are trained to carry out this work.
How to get rid of blockages in radiators
Although we do recommend having a professional to flush your radiators for you, avid DIYers may be able to manually flush sludge from a single radiator.
The process involves:
Turn off the central heating and wait for it to completely cool down.
Place some towels and sheets underneath the radiator, concentrating on areas near the valves and pipes. The water from the central heating is very dirty and often black and thick. It will damage any carpets or materials that it touches.
Isolate your radiator from the central heating system by turning off the valves.
Turn the Thermostatic Radiator Valve fully to its off position, and then turn off the Lockshield valve – this is usually the one with the plastic cover. All you need to do is remove the cover and turn it fully clockwise using an adjustable wrench.
Place a bucket under the thermostatic valve and use a wrench to loosen it.
Next, loosen and bleed the valve using a radiator key. Ensure that the bucket is still under the thermostatic valve, as the water will begin to flow once the valve is loosened.
Use the radiator key to loosen the lockshield using the radiator key and tilt the radiator to get rid of excess water.
Use the radiator key to close the bleed valve.
Remove the radiator from the wall.
Take the radiator to an outside space to clean, using a hose to flush away any dirt and residue.
If the manual flush doesn’t work, you may need a qualified heating engineer to carry out a power or chemical flush.
How to prevent your radiator getting cold at the bottom
Prevention is always better than a cure, which is why once your radiator has been cleared, it’s a good idea to take preventative steps to stop the issue arising again.
Add a central heating inhibitor
A central heating inhibitor is a chemical which is added to your system to prevent the buildup of limescale and sludge. It works by coating the system to keep the water running smoothly.
Add a scale reducer
Scale reducers are a good idea for homes in hard water areas, as limescale is much more likely to form a blockage in a heating system.
Install a magnetic filter
A magnetic filter can be fitted within a central heating system to collect any rust or limescale from the circulating water. This also prevents a build up of sludge and reduces the chance of a blockage.
Recent changes to Part L building regulations ensures that a magnetic filter must now be fitted whenever a new boiler is installed. This acts to protect the boiler from the debris in your heating system.
The best way to fix a radiator which is cold at the bottom is by hiring a professional heating engineer.
At Lacey Plumbing and Heating, our qualified and gas safe registered engineers are ready to help you no matter what heating or plumbing issue you’re facing.
In the colder months, we rely on our radiators to heat our homes, but when they begin to deteriorate, it can be frustrating to not feel as much warmth. Older radiators don’t look as good as new modern styles and can also leak, which in turn causes loss of pressure in your heating system and potential damage.
We strongly advise against fitting a radiator yourself, and recommend always using a qualified plumber or heating engineer to fit it for you.
Fitting a radiator yourself could result in greater issues and expensive mistakes, which would require the assistance of a professional to fix.
Our qualified and professional team of experts can fit a new radiator for you, and most of the time, it can be relatively quick.
Do you need a plumber to change a radiator?
Ideally, when you want a radiator changed, you should always enlist the help of the professionals, such as plumbers or heating engineers.
For a plumber or heating engineer, removing and changing radiators are fairly straightforward jobs. For those with little to no experience in this field, a DIY job is not recommended.
When should I get my radiators replaced?
There is no black and white answer for when you should replace your radiators, but in general, they should be replaced every 15-20 years. However, this all depends on the overall wear and tear of the radiators.
If your radiators are nearing this age, it’s worth keeping track of how they’re performing.
More modern radiators are so much more efficient and also come in a range of styles, colours and shapes, so can make a big difference in heat output but also change the look of a room.
How do I know when my radiators need replacing?
Generally, if you are confident your boiler is still performing as normal but your radiators are failing to perform just as well, this may be a clear sign that your radiators need replacing.
You can also check by viewing the temperature of your pipework. If they are very hot but the radiator’s temperature isn’t as hot, this may be another indication that your radiators have stopped working efficiently.
Can you just swap radiators?
Yes, if you can find a like-for-like radiator, meaning a new one the exact same size as your old one, the job of swapping the old for new radiator is fairly straightforward.
If you want to change the size or design of your radiator, then adjustments will need to be made to your heating pipework. This may take slightly longer to do as it is more complex than swapping like-for-like radiators.
Over time, how we calculate heat outputs in properties have also changed along with radiator sizes so if you have very old radiators it’s more likely you will need adjustments to your heating pipework.
If you wish to have a larger radiator, your floorboards will likely need to be lifted to access the pipework below.
This again can take a bit longer to complete, but a professional plumbing and heating engineer will be able to finish the job as quickly as they can so you can get back to using your central heating.
Why would I need to replace a radiator?
Listed below are some of the main reasons why you would need to replace a radiator:
Age: It is recommended that radiators are changed every 15-20 years. It’s worth keeping an eye on your radiator’s performance if they are nearing this age range.
Corrosion: Corrosion can build up in your radiators due to a build up of sludge overtime. This can cause internal rusting, and eventually cause leaks.
Rust: Rust often occurs on the outside of radiators due to the heating and cooling process. If rust isn’t treated in a timely manner, it can become a bigger problem and cause leaks.
Inefficient: A less efficient radiator can lead to heat loss, meaning it can take a lot longer to heat the room.
Upgrades: You may simply wish to upgrade to new models or different designs.
There are many different types of radiators, meaning you may have a tough choice when deciding what to replace your old ones with.
Don’t worry too much about this, as we can advise you on the most suitable radiators for your home.
Central Heating Radiators
Central heating radiators use corrugated panels to radiate heat into a room, and tend to be the most popular choice due to their high efficiency and compact design.
You can get either single-panel style radiators for small rooms, or double-panel ones for larger rooms which produce more heat.
Column Radiators
Column radiators are great for anyone looking to add a classic period look to their home.
They have a traditional aesthetic, yet the modern models offer great heat distribution and efficiency.
Designer Radiators
Classic central heating radiators can ruin the look of your home, especially if you are aiming for a specific aesthetic.
Stylish, contemporary radiators are space savers, whilst also providing functionality by doubling up as mirrors, memo boards and much more.
Designer radiators are one of our most requested new radiator installations. We can advise you on where to look to get an idea of the style that you like and what size and heat output you need for your designer radiators.
Vertical Radiators
When wall space is limited, vertical radiators are a saving grace. They can fit perfectly onto small wall spaces, meaning you can heat your home where you previously may not have been able to.
They also come in a range of designs and colours, meaning you can find one to suit your home aesthetic.
Towel Radiators
Towel radiators have become a must for many, due to the fact you can dry your towels whilst also heating your bathroom.
They act as a stylish, space-saving solution, whereas in the past, they were always chrome; you can now get a variety of different styles and colours.
Cast Iron Radiators
Cast iron radiators are perfect for period homes with high ceilings. They remain warm for longer, whilst also providing a good contrast with modern decor.
Flat Panel Radiators
Flat panel radiators are light, compact and can fit into almost any room without taking up a vast amount of space.
Stainless Steel Radiators
Stainless steel does not rust or corrode like other metals do, meaning a stainless steel radiator is guaranteed to last a long time.
They are efficient, low maintenance and come in various different finishes.
Space Saving Radiators
A space-saving radiator is a great option if you don’t have a lot of room and want to make the most of your space.
They can fit into narrow spaces and even wrap around corners!
Is it worth replacing old radiators with new?
Yes, it is definitely worth replacing your old radiators with new ones. Modern radiators are much more economical, effective and efficient than older radiators.
They also come in a greater range of designs and can help you save money on your energy bills.
However, if your old radiators are still working perfectly fine, don’t feel pressured to replace them until you need to.
How do you replace a radiator?
We ALWAYS recommend getting a professional to replace your radiators. However, if you are confident in your abilities and have some form of experience, we have listed a step by step guide below to help you.
A big consideration when changing your radiators is the type of heating system that you have. Not all heating systems are the same, and once you come to refill your heating system, you may find this difficult.
You could experience air locks and have difficulty balancing your radiators to get a uniform temperature across all each room. Our engineers are experienced at dealing with the issues encountered with all types of heating system, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us first for advice on changing your radiators.
Remember, this guide is for swapping a like-for-like radiator. If you require any additional pipe work or have any doubts, contact our expert heating engineers for assistance and a quotation for replacement radiators.
Before getting started, you should always check the condition of your wall. Patch up any crumbling plaster and ensure you know where any stud walls, piping or wires are in the wall.
Make sure you have plenty of towels and protective sheets ready to prevent any water damage and as radiators can be full of black water or sludge you need to be extra careful to cover your carpets and furniture.
Follow these steps:
Isolate the radiator
The first thing you need to do is turn off your central heating and water supply, and make sure your radiator is completely cool before moving on.
Isolate your radiator by closing off the valves located at both ends. Turn the thermostatic valve clockwise until it stops.
At the other end, turn the lockshield valve clockwise with a spanner until it stops. Keep a note of how many turns you made as it will need to be set back to the same position once the new radiator is fitted.
Drain the radiator
The next step is to release all the water out of your radiator so you can remove it. You will find a connection at either end of your radiator. Place a bucket and a towel underneath it to catch the water.
Using a spanner, turn the nut away from you to loosen it. You’ll find that not a lot of water immediately comes out as you need to let some air into the radiator. To do this, place your radiator key into the bleed valve at the top of the radiator and turn it clockwise.
More water should begin to drip out. Do this on both sides of the radiator, ensuring all the water is drained before you move on.
Remove the radiator
Once all the water has been drained, you can lift the radiator off the wall or the floor. You may need to pull the pipes out slightly at the sides before lifting it straight upwards. A second pair of hands will be useful for this step!
There may be some water left in the radiator, so carefully pour this into your bucket. You can stuff some rags into the openings to prevent any water leakage whilst you take it out the room.
Keep your old valve tails from your old radiator and clean them up as you will be able to use them again.
Replace the wall brackets
If your new radiator is not compatible with your old bracket, you should take these off and fix the new ones on.
Hang the new radiator
Once everything has been lined up, place your bleed valve and valve tails back into the new radiator. Hang it into position and tighten the nuts to connect the radiator to the pipework. Use a spanner here to tighten the nuts.
Then, reopen your lockshield and control valve that you isolated to drain the radiator using the same number of turns. Open the bleed valve to let any air out of the radiator, and make sure to close it properly when done.
You should hear gurgling as the radiator fills up with water. If you don’t, check you have opened the valves enough.
Add some radiator corrosion chemical inhibitor
This is an extremely important step as it prevents sludge building up within your radiator.
Turn on your central heating
Once you’re sure all the connections are tight, you can go ahead and turn your central heating back on and enjoy your new radiators!
If you get stuck during any of the steps, or you are unsure what each element is, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Messing up could be costly and may leave you with damaged pipes, floorboards, walls or even damaging your brand new radiator.
Do you have to drain the system to replace a radiator?
It is possible that you will need to drain the entire heating system even if you are changing just one radiator. This depends on a number of factors and it is best to get advice from a professional.
Where to position new radiators
You can position your new radiators exactly where your old ones were, but if they were not in the coldest part of the room, it may be a good idea to reconsider where the position is within the room.
These are known as “cold spots”. However, many modern homes have changed their insulation design, meaning there aren’t so many specific cold spots.
Do new radiators need Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV’s)?
Yes, you should be using thermostatic radiator valves on your new radiators. They will control the temperature of each room and do not cost as much as having a thermostat in each room.
Just make sure if a radiator is in the same room as a thermostat, it does not have a thermostatic radiator valve on it as the room will be controlled independently by the TRV. This means the room may not get warm enough to turn the boiler off via the thermostat.
You should also always have one radiator without a TRV in your home which is usually a towel rail. We can advise you when we’re surveying for new radiators or when you’re looking at upgrading your boiler.
The costs to remove and replace radiators
The cost of removing and replacing old radiators can vary depending on how many radiators you wish to remove, what style of radiator you wish to have installed and the complexity of the job.
If you are looking at replacing old radiators, talk to our professional team of heating engineers today. We will take the time to evaluate your situation and determine a cost for you.
Contact us today for more information on radiator replacements.
New boiler installations can be very expensive, especially when you have to pay for them in one large lump sum and sometimes the job might not be a straightforward boiler swap. Thankfully, new boiler finance plans are available to help spread the cost, giving you control over your finances and keeping any savings you have in the bank.
Paying for a boiler monthly on finance means you can spread the costs into manageable monthly instalments, instead of paying the large upfront cost all at once.
As long as you make sure the payments are made each month for the duration of your contract, you will not need to pay anything else, other than your annual boiler service to ensure your boiler warranty is validated.
What is included when getting a new boiler on finance?
When you pay for a boiler on finance, there are no deposits required, but you can pay an optional 50% or less and you can also make overpayments if you wish (with no penalty).
Typically, boiler finance plans can be spread across a period of 3, 5, 7 or 10 years to suit your financial needs.
Having a boiler finance plan also means that you’ll have a new boiler fitted with a boiler warranty, which will cover any parts and labour repairs.
Therefore, you don’t need to worry about any repair payments for the duration of your warranty – these can last for the duration of your finance or longer, depending on which finance option you choose and which boiler make and model you have installed.
Who can apply for boiler financing?
You can apply for boiler finance if you are:
18 and over
A permanent UK resident (for the past 3 or more years)
Employed, retired or receiving long term disability allowance
NOT unemployed or a student
Own the property where the boiler is being installed
You must also be able to show either a valid passport, a UK driving licence or other form of ID.
What is a pay monthly boiler scheme?
With pay monthly boiler finance, you avoid the heavy upfront cost of installing a new boiler, which will typically be in excess of £2000.
Instead of paying the full price upfront, you will agree to make affordable single payments every month over the course of a few years.
Lacey Plumbing and Heating are trusted professionals who will take care of the boiler installation when you purchase a finance plan with us.
You need to arrange for a Gas Safe engineer to visit your home once a year to carry out a boiler service and ensure everything is running as it should and to validate your boiler warranty with the boiler manufacturer.
If anything goes wrong, the boiler will be fixed by the manufacturer as long as it has been serviced every year.
Interest free boiler plans, with 0% APR, is a finance option which allows you to pay for a new boiler on finance with no additional interest costs to your plan.
This means that the amount you are required to repay is the full cost of the boiler and installation, with no additional fees.
Pay monthly boiler finance plans
Worcester Bosch
Our current interest free credit finance deals cover Worcester Bosch boiler installations using the finance company Novuna (formerly Hitachi).
We can offer certain Worcester Bosch boilers on 0% finance between 12 months to 2 years.
This means you can pay for your boiler monthly with no interest to pay. The price we quote you is the price you pay, but over lower monthly payments. There is no need to pay a deposit, but any deposit will lower your monthly payments.
One of the main benefits of paying for your boiler on finance is avoiding the large upfront cost and keeping any savings you have in the bank, however, there are other benefits too:
No upfront costs: There is no need to take out loans or pull together a lot of money that you simply can’t afford.
Contract payments can suit you: Many schemes last around 10 years; however, there are some which allow for flexibility and will let you choose a shorter contract of 3-5 years. This does mean your monthly instalments will be higher, but you’ll be paying for less time overall. You will of course pay more interest the longer the term of the finance.
Affordable payments: Monthly payments can be as low as £20 a month, but this will depend on the length of the agreement.
Cheaper energy bills: By replacing an old inefficient G rated boiler with a modern A grade boiler, you could potentially save upwards of £300 a year on energy bills.
No surprise costs. Your monthly payment includes servicing and repairs, so if any problems arise, you know they are already paid for.
FAQs about boilers on finance
Having a boiler on finance can save you money as you will be upgraded to an energy efficient A graded boiler, which costs less money to run compared to the likes of a G rated boiler.
On average, you could save around £30 a month on your energy bills with an A rated boiler, which could cover the costs of your boiler finance instalments.
Purchasing a boiler on finance is also one way to make the final costs of the installation more affordable as the costs are spread over a period of time, instead of one large lump sum.
As boilers are an essential part of many heating systems in a household – some companies don’t require a credit check on pay monthly schemes and they may still offer a 0% APR plan.
The finance company that we use, Novuna, will require a credit check for boiler finance when you’re looking to install a new Worcester Bosch boiler.
Yes, it is still possible to purchase a boiler on finance with bad credit. If you do have bad credit, some companies will still offer you the opportunity to get a boiler on finance.
You may not be accepted by a high street bank, but boiler companies may perform a “soft credit check”, which will increase your chances of being accepted.
There won’t be a large difference between the type or kind of boiler you’ll be offered, instead, you will likely have a longer payment plan with higher interest rates.
Flexible pay monthly boiler finance instalments typically span over the course of 10 years, but the length may vary depending on who you purchase your boiler from.
Many finance deals are much shorter, ranging from 3-7 years, which is a popular choice amongst many homeowners.
It’s worth remembering that the shorter your finance, the higher your monthly instalments will be. However, you will have paid off the boiler much sooner and will pay less interest.
There are a few potential risks which you should weigh up before you decide on getting a boiler on finance:
Potential of higher interest rates depending on your credit score
Falling behind on payments could be incredibly costly
You should always read the fine print of the terms and conditions so you aren’t hit with any unexpected costs
Interested in the Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life boiler? Our expert, Gas Safe registered heating engineers review this popular model and offer advice on Worcester Bosch boiler installation.
Worcester Bosch is one of the leading boiler manufacturers in the UK. They are trusted by value and quality focused homeowners and are backed by fantastic product guarantees and customer service from the Worcester Bosch team.
Their product is award winning and offers the latest in technology and design. They are also loved by installers. 9 out of 10 installers choose Worcester Bosch boilers for their customers homes.
The Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life Boiler
The Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life boiler is available as a combi, system or heat only boiler. The 8000 Lifestyle range are stunning boilers that offer quality and performance for maximum heating and hot water comfort in your home.
The 8000 comes in both the Life and Style range. The 8000 Style comes in both black and white with additional innovative technology. When paired with the Bosch Easy smart control, it gives the ability to control your home from anywhere or through other smart products in your home.
Not only does this boiler offer a sleek, modern design, but it’s also part of Worcester’s most powerful wall-hung combi range, offering output’s up to 50kw.
Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life Specifications
Which Worcester boiler is best?
The best boiler for your home depends on different factors. The main ones are:
The size of your property – this dictates which size boiler you require;
The incoming water flow into your property;
Your personal heating and hot water requirements.
When Lacey Plumbing & Heating attend your property, we will carry out a full survey and discuss your needs. This will ensure that we can provide you with the right boiler for your home.
There is no point in installing a boiler that is too small, as it won’t provide sufficient heating and hot water, or too big as you’ll pay a lot more for a bigger boiler but won’t get any benefit from this.
How long should a Worcester Bosch boiler last?
Modern boilers should last for at least 12 years but with regular, annual servicing and maintenance, your boiler should last much longer. As with all boilers, it will start to lose its efficiency in time but regular boiler servicing is designed to keep your boiler running as efficiently and safely as possible.
As boilers change over the coming years to meet with the future of fuel and the Government’s net carbon targets, once a boiler is over 12 years old, you may benefit from swapping to the latest technology available.
Does the Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life have any warranty?
All Worcester Bosch products come with a no quibble parts and labour guarantee. As long as your boiler is serviced annually, Worcester will repair your boiler free of charge within the guarantee period.
If you have your boiler installed by a Worcester Accredited Partner like us, you can benefit from a 12 year guarantee on the Worcester 8000 Life range.
This will cover your Worcester Bosch Greenstar heating system filter and any Worcester Bosch boiler controls that you have fitted, which include the Worcester Comfort 2 radio frequency thermostat and the Bosch Easy smart control.
We offer a pay monthly option to ensure your boiler service is never missed, which keeps your warranty valid.
How much does Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life cost?
The cost of installing a new Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Life depends on a few factors, such as:
Size of boiler required;
Location of the new boiler;
If you’re converting your heating system from a conventional system to a combi system.
For a straightforward combination boiler swap, it would typically cost between £2,600 to £3,000 with smart controls.
The best way to find out the cost is by arranging a free, no obligation survey through sus. We can provide you with an accurate cost for replacing your current boiler with a Worcester 8000.
Are there any Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 alternatives?
An alternative to the Worcester Bosch 8000 would be the Ideal Vogue Max boiler from Ideal Boilers, which also comes with a 12 year warranty.
Should you buy a Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 boiler?
The Worcester Bosch 8000 boiler is one of the most regularly installed boilers by the Lacey Plumbing & Heating Engineers. The fact that it has a 12 year guarantee is a factor in this, as it provides our customers with long term peace of mind.
They are not suitable for all homes, but if you’d like to find out if you can have one installed in your home, please contact us today!
Smart thermostats have become one of the most popular home automation devices. Not only do they make your life much easier, but they also act as a great way to reduce your carbon emissions. With rising energy costs, smart thermostats are also becoming hugely popular to help people save money.
We’ll run through the benefits of smart heating controls and how you can choose the best one for your home and needs.
It is important to check that your boiler and heating system is compatible with a smart control first. We can advise you on whether your boiler is suitable for a smart control, so please get in touch.
Smart heating controls are thermostatic devices fitted to your heating system. They connect wirelessly to the internet and are controlled remotely through a smartphone, tablet or other internet connected device.
The smart controls and smart thermostatic radiator valves take heating your home to a whole new level. Different rooms can be set to different temperatures, saving you money by not heating up rooms that you don’t use often.
What is a smart thermostat?
While a normal thermostat allows you to change the warmth of your home through a dial or control pad, a smart thermostat gives you complete control and command of your home’s heating.
You can change your heating based on a number of different factors, including the time of day, the external weather and who’s in your home, all with the ability to change it from your smartphone.
How does a smart thermostat work?
Smart thermostats are fitted to your boiler. This is then controlled by an app on your phone in which you can schedule your heating to come on or turn off, adjust the temperature of your room wherever you are and even set up automations with other smart devices.
Your smart thermostat will need to be connected to a power supply but your installer will be able to advise on this.
If you’re unsure about whether your boiler is compatible with a smart thermostat, contact Lacey Plumbing & Heating today to see how we can help you with this. We can provide a hassle free installation with all the help you need to get your smart thermostat up and running.
Not all smart thermostats have the same features, so it’s important to find one that includes all of the smart heating controls you’re looking for.
We’ve listed some of the most common features below:
Hot water control
Depending on which type of boiler is installed in your home, some smart heating controls allow you to control your hot water.
For example, if you’ve switched the water off for a weekend whilst you’ve been away, you can simply use the app on your phone or smart device to turn the water on again before you get home. Just like with a traditional hot water thermostat, you can program a schedule so you never have to suffer the pain of a cold shower because you failed to put the hot water on.
However, if you have a combination boiler, or combi-boiler, in your home that provides instant hot water when you turn the tap on, you won’t require a thermostat that controls your water temperature.
It’s important to note that hot water control functions don’t come on all thermostats as standard.
App control
Smart thermostats typically use a mobile app to control them, meaning that you have full control of your heating in the palm of your hand.
As long as you have access to the internet, you can raise or lower the temperature of your heating wherever you are.
This makes life easier as temperatures can be changed in your home, even if you are away from home. It is also a great way to track your finances and bills, by easily lowering or turning off your heating as and when you please.
It’s also a great feature for when you aren’t home but are returning soon. You could even set your heating to come on whilst you are abroad and have the house warm and cosy upon your arrival.
Multi-room thermostat control/Zonal heating
Multi-room thermostat controls are great for a multitude of reasons. The function allows you to change the temperature in different rooms of your home.
This can be particularly advantageous if:
You suffer from mobility issues;
Have a large house with rooms that don’t need to be heated;
If you are aiming to reduce your bills and lower your finances in general.
To make use of this feature, you will have to spend a bit more as you will need a thermostat in each room that you want to control the temperature of. Each new thermostat you require will cost extra and they aren’t always cheap.
Consider weighing the cost of the thermostats against any potential energy bill savings you might make by not heating parts of your home that don’t need heating.
GPS and motion sensor control
Some smart thermostat features use geolocation tracking to tell you where you are in order to turn up or down your heating. It makes these calculations automatically and will adjust the temperature in your home to a setting that you have already pre-installed into the thermostat.
Other features work a bit differently. Some smart thermostats allow you to set distances to determine when your heating turns on and off when you leave or return home. It also has a feature that alerts you if you happen to have left the heating on when you go out, or if it’s set lower than you’d like it to be.
These can all be controlled easily through your phone or smart device.
This feature is most useful for people who may be in and out of their homes at irregular times of the day and night, such as shift workers.
Weather responsive controls
One function that a lot of the smart heating control systems have is a weather-response function.
Known as an ‘outdoor reset control’, it essentially reduces the size of your boiler by using a tiny computer chip to balance the water temperature with outdoor temperature.
This type of control features a sensor on the north side of your home that works with another sensor mounted on the top of your boiler to control the temperature.
More advanced systems use internal room sensors to provide even more information, detecting heat gains from solar sources, fireplaces and cooking.
Modern smart heating controls operate using complex algorithms to achieve this. Some smart thermostats check the weather forecast to help you to utilise more of the natural heat sources. Most modern smart heating controls will adapt to the ambient temperature in your home in their own way to make use of natural heat.
There are multiple benefits of installing and using a smart heating system:
Easy to use through the use of a mobile or smart device.
They are straightforward in use and highly convenient.
You can set the thermostat so it knows when you’re away, pausing your normal schedules and resuming them when you return home.
The weather responsive feature means heating can come on or turn off automatically.
You can completely personalise your experience to suit you and your home by setting schedules.
Disadvantages of smart heating controls
There are a few disadvantages that may be worth considering when purchasing a smart thermostat.
Smart thermostats usually pay for themselves in about two years, but the initial cost can be up to four times the average price of a normal thermostat. How much you save on heating and cooling costs will largely depend on how often you’re in the home, what your ideal temperature is and what type of climate you happen to live in.
Another off-putting factor may be how many instructions there are to follow during the installation and set up process. If you’re not too tech savvy, just get in touch and our heating engineers will fit your smart control.
Will a smart heating thermostat save me money?
A smart heating thermostat will save you money, if you use it in the right way.
Those who use a traditional thermostat may leave their central heating on all day so their home is warm when they return, just in case the timer fails to work. This is not only expensive, but incredibly inefficient too.
Smart heating systems allow you to set the temperature of your home well in advance, or your system may even work out when to turn itself on. Some smart thermostats may even take into account the external temperature, so you don’t have to worry about turning it on before you get home.
Which smart heating thermostat is best?
There are a number of different options when it comes to finding the best smart thermostat.
We’ve created a list below containing some of the best options currently on the market:
Bosch Easy Control
This is a smart control that is compatible with Worcester Bosch boilers. They come in black or white and when installed as part of a new installation, they attract the same guarantee as the boiler.
For example, if you have an Easy control installed with a Worcester 8000 by a Worcester Accredited Partner, it will have a 12 year guarantee so will be replaced within that time period if something goes wrong. It is great value for money.
EPH CP4i Smart Control
This smart thermostat is fairly new on the market but is quickly becoming an industry leader and very popular with homeowners.
It is great for controlling one or multiple heating zones, up to 6 areas, and it boasts a simple control panel perfect for those who want less hassle but more control.
Nest Learning Thermostat
The Nest Learning Thermostat is not only great for your heating needs, but it is aesthetically pleasing too.
It learns your routines and adjusts itself accordingly, meaning over time your heating system can actually adapt to suit your needs without you actually having to do anything.
The Nest also has great location-based features that track where your phone is and will turn the heating on or off depending on your location. The built-in sensors enable it to detect when anyones at home, so you won’t be left in a freezing cold house.
The main downside of the Nest Learning thermostat is that it doesn’t offer zonal control, so you won’t be able to change the temperature of separate rooms digitally.
Tado Smart Thermostat
Tado’s thermostat is refined and almost completely compatible with all boilers on the market. It works with just about everything, from combi and conventional boilers to heated floors and hot water systems.
It can even be installed by just about anyone, although we do always recommend contacting one of our specialists to help you if you’re unsure about anything.
The thermostat can work out the layouts of your rooms, as well as the heat capacity of your home. This means that if you’re looking to get a certain temperature at a certain time, it’ll start to heat the room slowly to reach the target temperature by the time you get home.
Tado’s thermostat works in tandem with your phone to know when you’re in range of your home and will predict your movements upon your return to start heating up the house.
It is also controlled by an app called Natch, which is very well laid out and functional, and is also compatible with all three smart assistants.
Honeywell Evohome
The Evohome gives you complete control over your home, with individual thermostats for each radiator enabling you to set an independent heating schedule for every room in your house.
This is a great option if you live in a house where different members prefer different temperatures, or even if one room seems to be hotter or colder than the others.
It even works with under floor heating, so if you have a large heating system, the Evohome gives you total control over it via one app.
The design of the control panel and radiator aren’t the most eye-catching, coming in plastic white, and it is a bit pricier than other options. However, it is worth it for the granular control you get over your heating.
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FAQ’s about smart thermostats and heating controls
Yes, smart thermostats are better for the environment. They provide the means to make intelligent choices that cut down on the use of fossil fuel energy sources by learning our heating and cooling preferences.
In turn, this can lower the demand for electricity produced by power plants and therefore reduce carbon emissions that contribute to global warming.
Smart thermostats reveal the amount of energy that is being used, and helps us to identify what energy is being wasted.
Yes, you can have a smart thermostat if you’re renting. Always check your lease first as some leases make it impossible to even put holes in your walls. If you’re still unsure, it’s best to check with your landlord too before you go and buy a smart thermostat.
Many apartments have communal or controlled heating and air conditioning, so it’s important to know that a smart thermostat may not work in those spaces.
It is possible to take your smart thermostat with you when you move home. To ensure that everything moves seamlessly, you can get in touch with our team and one of our specialist heating engineers will help you to remove your kit and reinstall it.
You can also choose to leave your smart heating systems in place when moving house, as it will help to increase your property’s value. Smart home renovations are becoming increasingly popular with prospective buyers, so leaving your smart thermostat in could land you a buyer quicker.
Smart heating controls in an office setting can be really useful for saving energy over the weekend. Often, people forget to turn the electric heaters off when they leave on a Friday. With an electric boiler and central heating system with smart control compatibility, it is far easier to turn these off and on over the weekend.
A smart meter is for monitoring your gas and electricity consumption – it is not related to your smart control – and a smart thermostat enables you to turn your heating on and off as well as set the temperature.
If your internet goes down, you can control your heating manually using the control that is installed in your home like you would with a radio frequency time control.
You would not be able to use the app on your phone without wifi or mobile data.
Manchester plumbing business takes on John Lewis with its own Christmas ad
A Bury-based plumbing business is taking on the likes of Aldi and John Lewis, with the release of its very own Christmas commercial.
Lacey Plumbing and Heating, whose ‘Most Wanted’ video went viral back in September, decided to produce their own festive advert, after the success of the first film.
The two and a half minute mini-movie was inspired by a scene from the iconic 80s film Ghostbusters, and was produced to raise a smile for customers, locals and other tradespeople.
Featuring some of the Lacey’s staff as well as loveable office dog, Zak, the budding ‘actors’ are hoping to receive a record number of views and shares with the video this week, to rival John Lewis’ 2019 #ExcitableEdgar Christmas offering.
Rebecca Lacey, co-director of Lacey Plumbing and Heating, said: “After the surprise success of our ‘launch’ film earlier this year, we simply had to create something to try and top it for Christmas.
“Our aim is to of course to promote our services in the winter months but we also want to show other small businesses that you don’t require huge marketing budgets, like John Lewis, in order to produce campaigns that are creative and impactful.
“We hope everyone enjoys watching the advert as much as we did making it.”
Lacey Plumbing made waves in the plumbing trade and local area when views of its ‘Most Wanted’ video neared 50,000 in September 2019.
The business was subsequently approached to be the focus of a TV docu-series and the Lacey engineers have been recognised out and about ever since.
If your designer radiator in your home is not heating up properly or is making strange noises, it could need bleeding. This will allow hot water to circulate easily through your heating system.
At Lacey Plumbing & Heating, we have years of experience helping our customers with their sump pumps, from installation to servicing to emergency repairs.
