On Sun, 21 Dec 2003 16:00:38 +0000, Dave wrote:

I fancy having a go at cleaning the system out myself. I want to know
how to go about it. I understand you can buy stuff at the local DIY
store for this job but how do I go about things.

Simple DIY guide to cleansing a CH system follows.

First, drain the system. You could refill and drain again immediately,
which will clear some of the gunk.

Now take each radiator off in turn - close down the valves at each end
of the radiator first. And be aware that you WILL get some black gunk
coming out of the radiator as you attempt to move it - so pull back
any carpets or whatever BEFORE you undo the valves. I can't stress
this enough - if allowed to contact carpet material that gunk is there
forever.

Plug the ends of the radiator, turn radiator upside down (this keeps
the gunk in the radiator whilst you navigate your way outside) and
take into back garden. Bolt garden hose on one end and let it have a
good dose of mains water pressure. You will get a shedload of gunk out
so don't do this on your prize patio or SWMBO will withdraw your
marital rites for an indefinite period of time

You can then put the hose on the other end to squirt in the opposite
direction.

Once you've done the rads (and opened the valves again), refill the
system (no inhibitor) and pump it around a bit (boiler off, thermostat
high). Try closing off all but one radiator in turn, so that that
particular radiator circuit gets a good flow. Then drain system again.

Last step can be repeated a couple of times for good measure. There
will be some gunk in the pipework which will benefit from this.

Then refill, including inhibitor.

By this time and at this time of year you and your loved ones will be
freezing.....best to leave this job until spring if you can.....

PoP

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