On Thu, 14 Sep 2006 16:09:07 +0100 (BST), "Dave Liquorice"
wrote:

by a pro every year.

That "pro" is British Gas is it? Does it still work after they have
finished with it?

Yes, because all he does is look at the boiler then try to flog us a
new one ...or if it's an consciencious bloke, he tells us the old one
is perfectly fine!

Apert from bleeding the rads occasionally, should other maintenance be
doune routinely?

The rads should not need routine bleeding. If you have one or more that
does need bleeding the you have a problem with the system. Either air
getting drawn in some how, a leak or pump over, bringing fresh water (and
dissolved air) into the system causing corrosion and the liberation of
hydrogen.

Should any kind of chemical be added to the water?

It should have an inhibitor to reduce/stop corrosion. Fernox or Sentinel
are known brands.

Should the sytem be flushed, and how often?

Not routinely. If the system has no inhibitor then a clean and flush
might be advisable before refilling and adding inhibitor.

What does a 'clean and flush' consist of? Do you mean just drain and
refill, or were you meaning some kind of chemical cleaning procedure?

The only regular (annual) stuff I do is close fully, open fully, then
close 1/4 to 1/2 a turn the gate valves. If our heating stayed off during
the summer I'd fire it up every month or two for an hour or so and also
set any TRVs to max. TRVs have a habit of sticking closed if not
exercised.

Ah, yes... I had forgotten about the sticking TRV problem. Thanks for
reminding me - and for the other tips.

Drake