Draining a CH System

At least once in a CH system’s life it will need to be drained, either for a leaking pipe or for replacement of defective parts like valves etc. So if you are going to attempt to drain your system, make sure that you have a plan. It may be that you are better off calling in an expert like a Leytonstone Plumber.

A guide is below:

Make sure that the electrical power is isolated for the whole system as pumps usually have a permanent feed. If the system is vented, close the main supply valve to the system. If the system is sealed it does not require this action as there is no water connection.


Draining down.

Find a drain cock at a low point in the system, normally near the boiler. Connect the hose and open the valve.

Select a radiator high in the system and open the air release valve with a radiator bleed key. This assists the drain down by allowing air into the system, you should hear the air rushing into the system.

Slowly open more radiators ensuring to do the higher radiators first until they are all opened up.

Once the water has been drained it is wise to close the radiator to ensure the system is ready for filling and to make sure their bleed valves, are not lost if they were removed.


Note:
It is more than likely that the water removed from a central heating system will be of a black and inky colour, so it is a good idea to cover the areas of floor that are likely to come into contact with this stuff with some kind of protect ion such as sheeting. Leytonstone Plumbers are experienced in draining down such systems.









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