MagnaCleanse vs power flush and chemical flush: which is best?

Keep your boiler healthy. Sustaining a regular boiler maintenance is crucial to a smooth running system. Similarly to an engine, it’s something that needs looking after. The best way to do this? Is by using a full flush for your central heating system. It’s therefore essential to know what they are and why they are needed.

So the big question is: which type of system flush should you use? Way before MagnaCleanse arrived on the scene, it was very much a powerflush vs chemical flush debate and deciding which was less harmful to your system.

In this handy guide, we’ll be helping you through the different types of system flush and why our engineers highly recommend the MagnaCleanse. 

Why do you need a system flush?

If a flush isn’t carried out as and when it needs to be, the water in your boiler will eventually be contaminated with rust and other unwanted elements. Over time, the rust, debris, and dirt will turn into a ‘sludge’ like substance - preventing your system from functioning as well as it should.

Without the right type of flush, your system could become inefficient or even left out of order. This will result in the need for a replacement boiler or an engineer to come to your property to fix the issue, which isn’t desirable.

Depending on your current boiler, you may only need a flush once every 5 years or so. A copper heat exchanger will be much more durable and resistant - than opposed to stainless steel. Depending on the boiler type, a flush may be necessary more often than not.  If you’re unsure or would like some further advice on when your boiler’s next flush is due - chat with one of our expert engineers on our live chat feature!

We’ll always recommend a MagnaCleanse over any other type of flush. Approved by our manufacturer partners - it’s a highly effective way of keeping your system protected. So if the experts say to use it, it’s probably best to use it.  We at BOXT are always finding finding expert opinions for you. Clean, smooth, and protected - your boiler is in safe hands. 

The magnacleanse, power flush and chemical flush

What is a MagnaCleanse?

The MagnaCleanse system flush is the process of clearing your system of those harsh, unwanted materials. It thoroughly cleans your entire system - providing consistent protection to your pipes and boiler. The added benefit of a MagnaCleanse filter helps to collect sludgy residue away from your system for easy disposal. 

What is a power flush?

A central heating power flush is one of the older cleaning processes for a central heating system. It’s a solution of chemicals that travel through your system and pipes, removing debris, dirt, and rust - as well as any other unwanted waste material.

What is a chemical flush?

A chemical flush differs from a power flush. Why? Because it uses gravity to empty the system and refill it. During this process, the cleaning chemicals are dispersed around the system to remove unwanted materials and residue. The system is then flushed with clean water and boiler inhibitor - it will then be fully protected. We carry out a chemical system flush free with every boiler installation. This will ensure your system will stay as new as possible - for as long as possible. Protection for when it matters most. 

How to flush a central heating system.

How to MagnaCleanse a central heating system.

Firstly, before you MagnaCleanse a system, it's important to drain it completely. Then, connect the MagnaClease RapidFlush filter to your system valves using the provided hoses. The MagnaCleanse cleaning solution can then be added to the system. By combining the flush components with quality cleaning chemicals - you’ll have a special formula ready to intensely clean your system at a high strength. The sludge will be collected in the filter which can be easily disposed of.  

How to power flush a central heating system.

To carry out a power flush, it should always be an engineer’s job. They will connect a pump to your central heating system from either the pump head or the circulation pump (depending on boiler type). 

The engineer will then pump a chemical solution through the system removing any debris and rust - replenishing your boiler. The solution will include a descaling agent as well as other chemicals that will prevent rust from forming. The waste materials will then be collected and disposed of safely by an engineer.

How long does a power flush take?

The power flush can be a lengthy process, but the results will be more than worth the wait. This could take from around 5 hours to 10 hours, depending on these factors:

• The number of radiators you have in your home.
• How old your current boiler system is.
• The amount of ‘sludge’ substance is in your pipes/system.

Throughout the process, an engineer will look for other problems. These include any current or potential new blockages that could occur in the future. Some boiler components may need replacing or cleaning to ensure it doesn’t run into any more problems. Haven’t had your boiler flushed for some time? isn’t in the best condition? Then this procedure will require more time to be completed.

 How to chemical flush a central heating system.

A chemical flush is a more basic type of system clean, but can be just as effective. The chemicals are flushed through the system using gravity instead of a pump. As the cleaner is flushed around the system from the boiler, any debris will be caught by a magnetic filter and removed from the system.

When the work is complete, an engineer will be able to show how much your system has improved after the flush. This is done by measuring radiator temperature and comparing it to what it was previously.

The engineer will test your boiler and heating system to ensure everything is in working order. From doing so, they’ll usually be able to identify the areas in which there is a build-up of ‘sludge’ and if there are any leak risks. They’ll also be able to give you aftercare advice and ways you can get the most out of your system.

How to spot the signs.

• Is your boiler breaking down/needs to be restarted regularly?
• Do your radiators have cold patches while turned on, especially at the bottom?
• Is your tap water discoloured or cloudy?
• Do your radiators take a long while to heat up or do they not get warm at all?
• Are your radiators or boiler quite noisy?
• When bleeding radiators - is the water cloudy? Maybe there is no water at all.

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, your system may need a flush. It’s also a good idea to schedule in a system flush if you have a new boiler installed to ensure it’s in top working condition.

The advantages of a professional MagnaCleanse system flush.

Looking after your central heating system is advantageous for so many reasons. From a deep clean of your system and pipes, you’ll ensure your boiler is more energy efficient and much more reliable than it would be without a flush. Because the system will be clear of debris, it will run much smoother - increasing its lifespan. One of the main benefits of a MagnaCleanse flush is the fact that it can be completed within as little as two hours.

Looking after your central heating system is advantageous for so many reasons. A deep clean of your system and pipes means a more reliable and energy-efficient boiler - giving you the confidence you need. Within two hours of application, your boiler will be smoother, cleaner, and more trustworthy. Not to mention your boiler's increased lifespan. 

With a fully cleaned system, the chance of a breakdown will be very slim. You’ll have hotter radiators which heat up more quickly. The cost of regularly replacing parts from a poorly functioning boiler will be eliminated, and you’ll have the peace of mind that you can trust your heating system to deliver to a high standard each day, as you’d expect it to.

With a fully cleaned system, the chance of a breakdown will be very slim. You’ll have hotter radiators as they heat up quicker - great for those cold winter nights. You’ll no longer have to worry about replacing parts as you’ll have a dependable heating system you can trust. Having peace of mind was never made easier!

What is the MagnaCleanse, chemical or power flush cost?

The cost of a flush to be completed will entirely depend on a number of factors. The main factor being the complexity of your system - as well as the size of it. Engineers will also need to consider the possibility of running into a problem, which could hold the job up further.

The total flush cost can vary between engineers - ranging from around the £300-£700 mark. There may also be an additional cost depending on additional work needed or any part replacements required for a competently working system.

Choose a MagnaCleanse and extend the life of your central heating system.

A central heating system is a crucial component in many households today. Keeping it in perfect working order is cost-effective and ensures that you can rely on it for years to come.