Plumbing & Heating

Maybe you have had a new boiler fitted, possibly even new radiators, but what about the pipework? We are often asked about when or if the central heating pipework should be replaced. This work can be quite disruptive as in most cases the floorboards will need to be lifted in order to gain access to the pipework beneath. All too often though the pipework is forgotten about when a new boiler and radiators are fitted. Some people even ask to have the visible pipework to radiators renewed and the majority that is out of site left as it is. The truth is that your pipework may need replacing too, but we can offer some useful advice so you may make an informed decision as to whether this is needed in your particular case.

You should start looking at replacing your central heating pipework if your boiler has run into any problems with what is known as kettling. Kettling is exactly what it sounds like: noises that sound like a kettle full of water coming to the boil. It is caused by an accumulation of lime scale or corrosion debris in the system, sometimes within the actual boiler. Kettling is a natural process and happens in areas with hard water more often.

Another sign is if your pipework is getting really hot at the boiler, but the heat is not getting through to the radiators at the correct temperature. Leaking or corroded pipework, which has suffered pinhole leaks, is another sign that your pipework could need replacing. Metal, such as stainless steel pipes are more prone to corrosion, which is why we use copper pipes. We never pressure anyone to have work carried out; we offer the best advice that will benefit our customers in the long term. This is why our customers stick with us and refer us to their friends.