Get a fresh boiler to keep cosy this winter

Central heating is the best way of getting ready for when winter approaches with its longer nights and freezing temperatures. By centrally heating your house, you can make it more comfortable, inviting and relaxing.

The two basic types of gas central heating systems are called pumped and vented, both of which are made up of a heating boiler, radiators and usually copper pipework.

The most commonly used central heating systems are the pumped systems, which consists of two prominent parts, a feed and expansion tank; the tank is the core of the system, it first heats itself and then transfers the heat to the heaters through the pipes. The expansion tank will always allow for any water expansion that may occur as it gets hot.

In contrast, Sealed systems eliminate this primary water tank section. This system is essentially self-providing and therefore does not require any water tanks. The major benefits from this type of system, is that it essentially lessens the risk of leaking and stops other likely problems such airlocks, one of the better benefits, especially for colder countries is that there is no risk of pipes freezing up.

So you might ask what is really the point of getting central heating?.

One of the greatest advantages of central heating is its capability to increase the temperature inside a house or office very quickly without creating any noticeable effects in the air immediately surrounding you. The old type heaters that were used were gas fires and electric heaters, as well as storage heaters. However, these were not ideal as they emitted an odour and affected the condition of the air, drying it out.

These air quality issues were eliminated by gas central heating; but such a desirable environment can be ensured only by periodic servicing of the heating system to keep it running efficiently and safely. A lot of houses switch them off during the warm summer months and as soon as a cold snap hits, they then switch them on, this should not be done. It is more prudent to routinely switch on the system in autumn as wintertime approaches, so that any hitches can be repaired by summoning a gas central heating expert well in time.

Airborne dust and other contaminants can also seep into the central heating system, necessitating periodic drainage and cleansing. The easiest way to do this is to gently open the valve and allow any water to fall into a bucket placed underneath.