Mister Muscle

Modern central heating systems fit in with your decor and minimise problems

Article by Stuart Law

There are several possible materials with which to use in your central heating system, and choosing the correct one greatly affects the way in which it is used and the overall design.

With regard to radiators, aluminium dissipates heat instantly. This enables radiators to be accurately controlled and used only when rooms are occupied.

In addition, aluminium is very light, which makes for quick and simple installation.

This is very economical because they heat up and cool down quickly and efficiently.

However, care must be taken where an inhibitor is added to the system to ensure that it is suitable for use where there is aluminium in the system.

Cast iron is a material suitable older properties - unmatched by anything else.

But cast iron central heating radiators take a long time to heat up. Set their timers carefully so that they heat up in advance of when they are used.

The radiators will retain their warmth for an extremely long period.

Steel is a material that falls between aluminium and cast iron in terms of thermal properties.

The metal easily allows designers to manipulate the heating radiators into any shape imaginable. Most modern radiators of this material.

Stainless steel is impervious to water therefore, enabling its use in any domestic central heating system.

Some heated towel are made from brass and then coated with another material.

Modern central heating boilers are designed for minimal problems

Modern central heating boilers are safe - and the chances of explosions are minimal.

They are designed with many features which are designed to stop explosions, such as values, water level monitors, fuel cut-offs, automated controls and pressure relief valves. They also adhere to strict guidelines set out by national authorities.

To improve safety further, package boilers can be used. These are factory-made and shipped out as a complete unit. They are usually better quality and have fewer problems assembled boilers.

All the central heating package boilers need is to make final connections - such as to the electricity, and the installation is complete.

Condensing heating boilers are extremely efficient compared to older boilers.

The National Energy Foundation carried out monitoring work on homes built in Milton Keynes in the late 1980s and discovered operating efficiencies of 90% or better could be obtained in normal use.

Condensing boilers work very well and central heating bills are generally lower than those who own old-fashioned central heating boiler. Many houses these day have installed condensing boilers.

A condensing boiler that incorporates has an extra heat exchanger so the hot exhaust gases lose much of their energy to pre-heat the water in the boiler system.

In order to be fully efficient, the the water vapour produced condenses back into liquid form releasing the latent heat of vaporisation.

Selecting a reputable company for your central heating installation

Before you contact anyone, decide what type of heating system you want for your home. Don't just leave it to the installer, who might not necessarily know what is best for your home.

Do some research first - it will likely save you time and money later.

Heating systems rely on the controls. The controls should therefore, have the most investment put into them - which will, as a bi-product, reduce fuel bills and improve longevity.

Ask yourself what you want - instant or stored central heating hot water, mains pressure hot water, independent heating zones, types of controls, efficiency, or backups.

About the Author

Blazes is the UK's number one fireplaces and central heating system retailer.