Overhauling or maintaining your household central heating system may seem like a daunting task, but it is not really that difficult. OK, the first time you do it, it will seem strange and you might be a bit apprehensive, but the next time a lot less so until it becomes almost second nature and you become an expert on your own system at least.
There is no doubt that maintaining your household central heating system is a worthwhile job. It will allow you and your family to live more comfortably in the winter; a well-maintained central heating system is more efficient too, which will save on your heating bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Your current system will last longer, saving on replacement costs and you will save on the plumbers bills too. So, this DIY is good, for you, your family, the world and your wallet. Only the plumber dips out.
You will need the manufacturer's handbook to do the job properly as every system has its own specific peculiarities. One more tip though, before you get started: if you do really suspect that a task is beyond you at the moment, call in a contractor for that specific job, watch him do it and make notes. You can do it yourself next time.
Furnace: change or wash the air filter about once a month during the winter. There are two types of filter: disposable and washable. If you have disposable one, dispose of it and get a washable type. This filter is to be found either in the ducting or the blower near the furnace. At least once a year, open the blower with the system closed down and stone cold and gently scrape the dirt off the blades with a putty knife or scraper. Lightly oil the bearings and the shaft and check that the blower turns freely. If it has a belt, check it for tension and wear and tear. Gas and electrical furnaces should be tuned by a professional every two years; an oil furnace annually.
Radiators: can and invariably do, fill up with silt and air. The air is easy to dispel. At least once a year, open the valve at the top of each radiator tackling one at a time. With the system on, open the valve with a radiator key and hold a can underneath it. You will hear air hissing out. When only water comes out close the valve as the air has been removed. You will have to bleed all the radiators. Every couple of years, in the summer months, you could take the radiators off the wall and out into the yard. Affix your garden hose to one end of the radiator's water feed and turn the hose on full. This should flush the silt out. Wait till only clear water comes out
Take this opportunity to clean the radiators fins, dust where it used to hang and redecorate if required. You could also line the wall behind the radiator with aluminum foil to reflect heat back into the room. If you want to really do the job properly, get someone to fix thermostatic valves to each radiator so that you can regulate them better. They will save you money too.
