How to clean a magnetic filter

The job of a magnetic filter is to keep your boiler and entire heating system free of sludge, rust, and debris. Without a filter, your system will soon build up with unwanted materials. Over time, these substances can prevent your boiler from functioning and can eventually cause it to break down. 

Magnetic filters are important for your system. They need regular cleaning to ensure they always do their job properly. In this guide, we’ll explain how to clean a magnetic filter on a boiler to ensure you never run into any problems.

The job of a magnetic filter.

Water is the main culprit when sludge and debris fill up your pipes. As well as this, rust and debris can gather from corrosion. The thing with boilers, is that you can’t see when it builds up within your system. That’s why a magnetic filter can be installed to act as a magnet, attracting all the unwanted material into one space. This can then be emptied, cleaned, and replaced.

See our guide to magnetic filters for more information, or chat with an engineer using our live chat if you have any questions.

How to clean a magnetic filter on a boiler.

You’ll need to go through a number of steps before you can clean your boiler’s magnetic filter. 

1). Turn off your electricity supply.

Before you do anything, you’ll need to turn off your boiler’s electricity supply and ensure that you have something to cover up your flooring. This will avoid any debris or sludge water from your boiler falling onto your floor.  Switch off isolation valves too.

2). Remove the lid.

To remove the lid of the magnetic filter, you’ll more than likely need to unscrew it instead of pulling it. You may need to put in a little extra force, as your magnetic filter may be screwed tight shut for extra security. You may have also been given a device by your installer to help you to remove the lid. If you’re unsure, ask one of our engineers via our live chat.

3). Remove the magnet.

When you’re inside, you’ll be able to identify the magnet and the filter. An unclean filter will have sludge and dirt around it, so it will be clear where you’ll need to clean. Make sure you remove the magnet before you begin cleaning. You will be able to easily slide out of position and put it somewhere safe before you begin. 

4). Thoroughly clean the filter.

The most effective way to clean your magnetic filter is to use a high pressure hose, or standard to remove the rust and debris. Take extra care to clean everywhere thoroughly as well as the lid to ensure none of this debris is put back into the system. 

5). Replace the magnet and lid.

When complete, place the magnet safely back into the filter and replace the lid as tightly as possible. Use your designated tool or a spanner to tighten the lid to ensure there is no chance of it opening up as new unwanted material gets deposited there. Then, put the filter back in its place, reopen your valves and turn on your boiler once more. 

How often should I clean a magnetic filter on a boiler?

Your magnetic filter should be thoroughly cleaned around once per year. It’s important to do this regularly to prolong the life of your boiler. If you allow the filter to become full and clogged with debris and sludge, you’re risking a boiler breakdown. This could result in you needing an entirely new boiler altogether. 

Do I need a magnetic filter?

It’s not essential to have a magnetic filter, but they are recommended to help provide an efficient heating system and to prolong the life of your boiler. In doing so, you’re also more likely to lower the price you pay for your heating each month. If you don’t have a magnetic filter then rust and debris are more likely to be transported around your system, putting your boiler’s efficiency at risk.

If you don’t have a filter and you want to give your system a good clean, then we’d recommend our MagnaCleanse system flush to thoroughly clean your whole system. Talk to our engineers via our live chat for more information. 

A boiler magnetic filter could extend the life of your whole heating system.

If you’re looking for new ways to prolong the life of your boiler, a magnetic boiler filter could be exactly what you need. Not only can it save you money on bills and replacement components, but it will help your system to be much more energy efficient.

If you have any questions regarding your magnetic filter, you’d like to have one installed, or you’d like more information on the process, you can get in touch with us instantly via our live chat. One of our qualified engineers will be able to answer any questions you may have.