Before any problems with your boiler or central heating system arise, installing a magnetic boiler filter is essential to improve the lifespan of all elements within the heating system. Your boilers provide the heating and hot water in your home and any build up of sludge, debris or magnetite can be catastrophic for your central heating system. A magnetic boiler filter can help prevent this build up.
What is a magnetic boiler filter?
A magnetic filter on a boiler collects sludge, debris and magnetite that is moving around in your central heating system, before it enters the boiler. This can prevent blockages in the pipe work and radiators, which over time can occur and become very expensive in boiler repairs. Magnetic filters attract the metal particles from the water, allowing no obstructions to pass through the heating system, otherwise requiring power flushing.
Do I need a magnetic filter on my boiler?
If no filter is installed, the sludge and debris can cause blockages and possibly break the boiler down completely with issues like blocked heat exchangers, for example. The debris and sludge will reduce the efficiency from the central heating system, increasing energy bills and becoming more expensive to heat your home. Signs that your boiler may need a boiler filter include:
Excessive noises from the boiler, kettling and banging or whistles.
Temperature of your radiators, not as warm as they should be.
Cold spots in the middle of your radiators.
Tap water that appears cloudy.
Boiler leaks, or regularly breaking down.
If you suspect or have any of these signs and sludge in your heating system, it is important to consult a specialist Gas Safe registered engineer to prevent costly boiler repairs.
Whilst most new boilers will come with, or needing, a filter installed for warranty purposes, it is possible to retrofit one to an existing central heating system. The magnetic filter is generally recommended to be installed on the return pipe which will need to be done by a fully Gas Safe registered engineer.
Are magnetic filters mandatory?
In 2022 Part L of the Building Regulations was updated to make magnetic filters mandatory on any boiler replacement or new boiler installation. Leading boiler manufacturers like Worcester Bosch, Baxi, Vaillant and Ideal include magnetic filters as standard, requiring these to be installed for warranty purposes.
How to clean a boiler filter
It is necessary to have your magnetic boiler filter removed and cleaned by a fully Gas Safe registered engineer, preferably every year when the boiler service is due. While it is possible for you to clean the filter yourself, it is highly advised you get a fully trained engineer to complete the works who can also test the water quality in the central heating system, adding inhibitor where necessary to protect the boiler and improve the lifespan of the heating system.
Are boiler filters worth it?
Yes. Magnetic boiler filters are hugely important as they can reduce the risk of blockages within the central heating system requiring power flushing or expensive boiler repairs. The debris and magnetite in the system will be removed by the magnetic filter. Boilers work more efficiently with a filter, reducing central heating bills. Another benefit being many leading boiler manufacturers will offer extended warranties if a filter is installed to the central heating system.
Best magnetic filter for central heating
Fernox, Adey MagnaClean and Sentinel are some of the most popular brands and the best magnetic filters for your boilers and central heating. It can vary down to your specific needs. Consult a fully Gas Safe registered specialist to advise you on what would be the best setup for your heating system.
What is limescale inhibitor?
These are chemicals that act as a protector to your central heating system; preventing limescale and sludge build up in the boiler, radiators and pipe work. The inhibitor will keep the boiler working efficiently ensuring the heat exchanger functions correctly. The inhibitor can be added directly to the radiators through the magnetic filter or through the tanks in the loft space. Consult a fully Gas Safe registered expert for the application to your central heating system.
Do I need a magnetic filter and limescale inhibitor?
Yes. You need both a magnetic filter as well as limescale inhibitor. If you plan on replacing your boiler, or simply having a new boiler installed in your property, it is crucial to have both included with the new boiler installations to help warranty and prevent future issues with your central heating, protecting the lifespan of your new boiler.
So, are magnetic filters worth it? Talk to AWP Boiler Installations
It is very important to have both a magnetic filter installed along with inhibitor added to the central heating system to significantly extend the lifespan of your boiler. For FREE expert advice on a new magnetic boiler filter or boiler installations our fully Gas Safe registered engineers at AWP Boiler Installations are happy to help. Contact us for more information!
