When it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable, choosing the right heating system is crucial. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which system is best suited to your needs. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the key search terms and phrases associated with heating systems and help you make an informed decision.

  1. Boiler: A boiler is a key component of a heating system. It heats water that is circulated around the house to provide heating and hot water. There are several types of boilers available, including combi boilers, system boilers, and regular boilers.
  2. Radiator: Radiators are the most common method of distributing heat from a boiler. They work by circulating hot water through a series of pipes, which in turn heat the surrounding air.
  3. Underfloor heating: Underfloor heating is becoming an increasingly popular option for heating homes. It works by circulating warm water through pipes that are installed beneath the floor, providing a more even and consistent level of heat throughout the room.
  4. Heat pump: A heat pump is an energy-efficient alternative to a boiler. It works by extracting heat from the air or ground outside your home and using it to heat your home. Heat pumps can be expensive to install, but they can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
  5. Thermostat: A thermostat is a device that controls the temperature of your heating system. It allows you to set the temperature and control when your heating comes on and goes off.
  6. Efficiency: The efficiency of a heating system refers to how much heat it produces compared to how much energy it uses. The more efficient the system, the lower your energy bills will be.
  7. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is important to keep your heating system running efficiently and prevent breakdowns. It’s recommended to have your system serviced at least once a year.
  8. Fuel type: The type of fuel your heating system uses will have an impact on its efficiency and running costs. Gas and oil are the most common fuels used in boilers, while heat pumps and electric heating systems use electricity.

In conclusion, choosing the right heating system for your home depends on several factors, including your budget, the size of your home, and your energy efficiency requirements. By understanding the key search terms and phrases associated with heating systems, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that suits your needs.

What is the future of heating systems?

The future for heating systems in the UK is likely to be shaped by a combination of factors, including advances in technology, changing government policies, and growing awareness of the need to reduce carbon emissions. Here are some possible developments to look out for:

  1. Renewable energy sources: As the UK aims to become a net-zero emissions country by 2050, there is likely to be a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources for heating systems. This could include heat pumps, which extract heat from the air or ground, as well as solar thermal systems, which use the sun’s energy to heat water.
  2. Hydrogen boilers: Hydrogen has been proposed as a potential replacement for natural gas in boilers, as it produces no carbon emissions when burned. Trials of hydrogen boilers are currently underway in the UK, and if successful, they could become a viable option for heating homes and businesses.
  3. Smart technology: Smart thermostats and heating systems are already available in the UK, but their use is likely to become more widespread in the future. These systems allow users to control their heating remotely using a smartphone app, and can learn their habits and preferences to optimize energy use.
  4. Heat networks: Heat networks, also known as district heating systems, are a way of supplying heat to multiple buildings from a central source. These systems are already in use in some parts of the UK, and could become more common in the future, especially in urban areas.
  5. Building regulations: The UK government is currently reviewing building regulations to ensure that new homes and buildings are more energy-efficient. This could include requirements for improved insulation, heating systems, and ventilation.

Overall, the future for heating systems in the UK is likely to be shaped by a combination of factors, including technological innovation, government policy, and consumer demand. While it’s impossible to predict exactly what the future will hold, it’s clear that energy efficiency and carbon reduction will be key priorities.

There are several reasons why you should get a gas safety check:

Safety

The primary reason for getting a gas safety check is to ensure the safety of yourself and others in your home or property. Gas appliances that are not working correctly or have faults can pose a significant risk to health and safety, including gas leaks, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning. A gas safety check will identify any potential risks and ensure that any necessary repairs are carried out promptly.

Compliance

If you are a landlord, you are required by law to have a gas safety check performed annually on all gas appliances in your rental properties. Failure to comply with this legal requirement can result in fines, imprisonment or even loss of life. It is, therefore, essential to ensure that you have the necessary checks carried out and keep the records up to date.

Efficiency

A gas safety check can identify any issues with your appliances that may be affecting their efficiency, leading to higher energy bills. By ensuring that your appliances are working correctly, you can save money on your energy bills while also reducing your carbon footprint.

Peace of mind

By having a gas safety check, you can have peace of mind that your appliances are working correctly and safely. This can help to reduce any concerns or worries you may have about potential gas leaks, fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Overall, a gas safety check is a vital service that can help to ensure the safety of your home or property, comply with legal requirements, improve efficiency and provide peace of mind.

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are becoming an increasingly popular heating and cooling solution for residential and commercial buildings. In this blog, we’ll discuss what ASHPs are, how they work, their benefits, and some considerations to keep in mind when installing one.

What are Air Source Heat Pumps?

ASHPs are heating and cooling systems that work by transferring heat between the air outside and the air inside a building. They work like a refrigerator in reverse, using a refrigerant to absorb heat from the outside air and release it into the inside of the building.

How do Air Source Heat Pumps Work?

ASHPs consist of two main components: an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit contains a compressor, a heat exchanger, and a fan. The indoor unit contains another heat exchanger and a fan.

In heating mode, the outdoor unit absorbs heat from the air outside and transfers it to the indoor unit via the refrigerant. The indoor unit then releases the heat into the building’s air. In cooling mode, the process is reversed: the outdoor unit absorbs heat from the indoor air and releases it outside.

Benefits of Air Source Heat Pumps

There are several benefits to using ASHPs as a heating and cooling solution:

Energy efficiency: ASHPs use electricity to transfer heat, making them more energy-efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems that burn fossil fuels.

Cost savings: Since ASHPs are more energy-efficient, they can save homeowners and businesses money on their energy bills.

Environmentally friendly: ASHPs are a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems that burn fossil fuels, as they produce less carbon emissions.

Versatility: ASHPs can be used for both heating and cooling, making them a versatile solution for year-round comfort.

Considerations for Installing Air Source Heat Pumps

Before installing an ASHP, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Climate: ASHPs work best in mild climates where the temperature doesn’t drop below freezing for extended periods. In colder climates, a backup heating system may be necessary.

Space: ASHPs require outdoor space for the outdoor unit, as well as indoor space for the indoor unit.

Installation: ASHPs require professional installation to ensure they are working efficiently and safely.

Cost: While ASHPs can save money in the long run, they can be more expensive upfront than traditional heating and cooling systems.

In conclusion, air source heat pumps are an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly heating and cooling solution that is growing in popularity. By understanding how they work, their benefits, and the considerations to keep in mind when installing one, homeowners and businesses can make an informed decision about whether an ASHP is the right solution for their heating and cooling needs.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that is produced when fuels like wood, coal, oil, or gas are burned. When inhaled, it binds to the hemoglobin in our blood, preventing oxygen from being transported to our vital organs, leading to oxygen deprivation and ultimately death. Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because it’s odorless, tasteless, and colorless, making it challenging to detect without specialized equipment.

How Does Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Occur?

Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when people inhale high levels of carbon monoxide. This can happen when fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, stoves, or water heaters malfunction, or when they are improperly installed, operated, or maintained. Carbon monoxide can also build up in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces like garages, basements, or cabins.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary depending on the severity and duration of the exposure. Early symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, confusion, and shortness of breath. As the exposure continues, symptoms can progress to chest pain, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death.

Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be prevented by taking some simple precautions:

Install carbon monoxide detectors: Carbon monoxide detectors are a must-have in any home or building with fuel-burning appliances. They should be installed near bedrooms and other areas where people spend a lot of time.

Proper maintenance of appliances: Regular inspection and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances can ensure they are working safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.

Proper ventilation: Make sure that enclosed spaces like garages, basements, and cabins are properly ventilated. Do not run fuel-burning equipment in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation.

Don’t use fuel-burning appliances for heating: Appliances like gas stoves or ovens should never be used to heat a room, as this can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide.

Know the symptoms: If you experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, like headache, dizziness, or nausea, leave the area immediately and seek medical attention.

In conclusion, carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious health risk that can be prevented by taking some simple precautions. Installing carbon monoxide detectors, maintaining fuel-burning appliances, ensuring proper ventilation, avoiding using fuel-burning appliances for heating, and knowing the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can help protect you and your loved ones from this dangerous gas

Vaillant is a well-known brand in the world of boilers, and for good reason. With over 140 years of experience, the company has a reputation for manufacturing reliable and efficient boilers that deliver outstanding performance.

Vaillant boilers come in a variety of types and models, each designed to meet the needs of different homes and lifestyles. Here are some of the key features and benefits of Vaillant boilers:

Energy Efficiency

Vaillant boilers are known for their energy efficiency, with many models achieving an A+ rating. This means that they are highly efficient at converting fuel into heat, which can help to reduce energy bills and lower carbon emissions.

Quiet Operation

Vaillant boilers are designed to operate quietly, so you won’t be disturbed by loud noises while the boiler is running.

Reliable Performance

Vaillant boilers are built to last, with high-quality components and rigorous testing procedures to ensure that they can withstand the demands of daily use.

Compact Design

Many Vaillant boilers are designed to be compact and space-saving, making them ideal for homes with limited space.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Vaillant boilers are designed to be easy to install and maintain, with many models featuring a simple, user-friendly interface and intuitive controls.

Wide Range of Models

Whether you’re looking for a combi boiler, system boiler, or regular boiler, Vaillant has a wide range of models to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Excellent Customer Support

Vaillant provides excellent customer support, with a dedicated team of experts on hand to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.

In summary, Vaillant boilers are a great choice for homeowners who want a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use heating system. With a wide range of models to choose from and excellent customer support, Vaillant boilers are a great investment for any home.

What is a central heating pump?

First of all, let’s start with explaining what a central heating pump or a circulating pump is and its purpose in providing hot water to your taps and heat to your radiators.

Pumps were first invented in 200BC by the ancient Greeks to circulate water from a tank using 2 pipes, but we won’t get into that. Today, pumps are used in all heating and hot water systems to circulate cold water around a heat source such as heat exchangers or heating elements to provide hot water to a desired location. Early heating systems relied on gravity to circulate hot water using the method of convection however this was slow and unreliable. Circulating pumps were introduced to heating systems and boilers for the sole purpose of dispersing heat around the primary coils and produce more efficient heat to your radiators and hot water cylinders. If you had a faulty pump, it would cause overheating and banging sounds from your boiler.

How does a pump work?

So, this is how they work…. When a demand for heat via the room thermostat or by the hot water cylinder stat, a signal is sent to the motorised valve which will then trigger the boiler to ignite and send power to the pump. The pump will then circulate the hot water produced by the boiler around the heating circuit or hot water cylinder if you have one. If you are experiencing problems such as no hot water, no heating, boiler overheating or boiler banging noise you could have an issue with your pump. 

How do I know if my pump is faulty?

There are some simple checks you can do as a homeowner or tenant to identify a potential pump issue. On system boilers with external pumps, you can see if the lights are on or off when you call for heating or hot water, this will not prove the pump is faulty but could be an indication you need to call a local heating engineer to check your system for faults. New digital pumps by Grundfos comes with fault indications lights and Fault sounds so be sure to check the manual to identify the fault.

The second check you can do is feel the pump with your hands so if the lights are on but you can’t feel the vibration on the pump then its most likely sized up or not receiving enough power but be careful, they can be very hot! A heating engineer will be able to check for 240v at the pump and attempt to release the pump and get you up and running again. Silverdale plumbing provides boiler break down, heating and hot water repairs in your area from as little as £60. Speak to our team today for some free advice!

If you have a combination boiler installed in your property you may experience some error codes on your display, different makes of boilers have different error codes that indicate a fault with your faulty central heating pump. Here is a list of error codes for some of the main boiler manufacturers installed in London.

Boiler error codes for pump issues.

Alpha – Code 2 / Code 10 / Code 15 / Code27 / Code 60 E-tec, E-tec plus, Evoke / Code 61 / E-tec, E-tec plus, Evoke / 0A3 / 0A16 / 0A17 /0A18 / 0A37 – Pro tec 70 90 115 / 0E37 / 0E46 / 0E81 /

Baxi – H.01 – .05 / H.01 – .08 / H.01 – H.21 / one flash on green light / 2 red flashes / flash on and off / on flash flash / 3 green flashes / Code 111 118 / code 125 / E109 / E119 / E125 / E110 / E193 / 

Glow-Worm – F72 / F05 / F14 / F20 / F24 / F25 / F23 / F26 / F11 / F5 / F9 / F22 / F89 / F20 / F23 / F24 / Temperature 80 flashing

Ideal –  L1 

Vaillant –  D.10 / D.11 / F.11 / F.12 / F.13 /  F.20 / F22 / F24 /  F.75 / S.17 / S.2 / S.7 / S.07 / 

Should I call a heating engineer?

If you have any of the codes above or any fault code on your boiler display, get in touch with Silverdale plumbing, we have extensive experience in boiler break down repairs and central heating pump replacement in London, we offer competitive rates in London and surrounding areas and have fully qualified heating and gas safe engineers in your local area.

Areas we cover Enfield / Barnet / Haringey / Hackney / Islington / Camden / Barnet / Westminster & Chelsea / Hammersmith & Fulham / Ealing / Brent / Harrow / Wembley Edmonton / Tottenham / Kentish town