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Updated: April 28, 2024

MagnaCleanse Vs Power Flush Vs Chemical Flush: Which Is Best and Why?

This page provides comprehensive information on MagnaCleanse, Power Flush, and Chemical Flush heating system cleaning techniques.

Maintaining the health of your boiler is crucial for sustaining the energy efficiency of your entire system.

Regular boiler maintenance services are indispensable for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of your heating system.

Just like an engine, your boiler and heating system require regular care and maintenance to ensure they operate at peak performance.

The best way to do this is by using a full flush process for your central heating system:

It’s therefore essential to know what a full flush process is and why they are needed?

How many types of System Flushes / Full Flushes are there?

There are three different types of full heating system flushes.

These heating system flushes are;

  • PowerFlush
  • Chemical Flush
  • And the New MagnaCleanse Flush

So the big question, without a doubt, is which type of system flush should you use and why?

Until recently when the newer MagnaCleanse flush arrived, it was very much a powerflush vs chemical flush debate and deciding which was less harmful to your system was one of the main decisions. 

More to think about now!

However now that there is a third option the choice is harder to make.

In this quick system flush guide, we will help you to identify the different types of system flush processes which are available to you.  

We’ll also help you to decide which one is best for you and why!

Why do you need a system flush?

Failure to conduct a system flush when necessary can lead to contamination of the water in your boiler with rust and other undesirable elements.

Prevents Inefficiency:

Over time, the accumulation of rust, debris, and dirt forms a sludge-like substance that hampers the efficient operation of your system.

Without the appropriate type of flush, your system may become inefficient or cease functioning altogether.

This could necessitate either a new boiler installation or a boiler repair service for your property to address the issue.

MagnaCleanse Vs Power Flush Vs Chemical Flush

How regular is a system flush needed?

The frequency of needing a system flush depends on your current boiler type and brand. Typically, it may be required once every 5 years or so.

A copper heat exchanger tends to be more durable and resistant compared to a stainless steel one.

However, depending on the boiler type, a flush might be necessary more frequently.

If you’re uncertain or would like further advice on when your boiler’s next flush is due, or which type of flush is best, feel free to reach out to one of our expert engineers via the provided contact details!

However we will always recommend a MagnaCleanse over any other type of flush.

MagnaCleanse Flush

Approved by our manufacturer partners, a MagnaCleanse is a highly effective way of keeping your system protected and clean.

So if the experts advice to use it, it’s probably best to use it. 

So, What is a MagnaCleanse Flush?

A MagnaCleanse flush is a process designed to rid your system of harmful materials that have built up over time.

It effectively cleans your entire heating system, offering consistent protection for your pipes and boiler.

Convenient Disposal:

Additionally, the MagnaCleanse filter aids in gathering sludgy residue from your system, making disposal hassle-free.

Free MagnaCleanse Flush with Every New Boiler Installation!

We include a complimentary MagnaCleanse system flush with every boiler installation or replacement.

This ensures your heating system remains in optimal condition for an extended period.

What is a power flush?

A power flush is an older method used for cleaning central heating systems. During this process, a chemical solution is circulated through the system and pipes to remove debris, dirt, rust, and other unwanted waste materials.

What is a chemical flush?

Similar to a power flush, a chemical flush is a process aimed at cleaning a central heating system. However, it differs in the method used.

How is the chemical flush different?

The chemical flush differs in that it utilizes gravity to empty the system and then refill it. During this procedure, cleaning chemicals are distributed throughout the system to eliminate unwanted materials and residue. Subsequently, the system is flushed with clean water and boiler inhibitor to ensure it is thoroughly protected and clean.

Read about: Different Types Of Reliable Boiler Systems

MagnaCleanse Vs Power Flush Vs Chemical Flush

How to flush a central heating system:

There are three main ways to flush a central heating system:

These central heating flush processes are:

  1. MagnaCleanse
  2. PowerFlush
  3. Chemical Flush

1. How to MagnaCleanse a central heating system.

To begin with, 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.

Quality Cleaning Solution

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. 

Read more: Heating Engineer in Cardiff 

2. How to power flush a central heating system.

To perform a power flush, it should always be handled by a qualified engineer. They will connect a pump to your central heating system, typically from either the pump head or the circulation pump, depending on the type of boiler.

The engineer will then circulate a chemical solution through the system, effectively removing any debris and rust while aiding in the rejuvenation of your boiler. This solution typically includes a descaling agent along with other chemicals designed to prevent the formation of rust.

The waste materials will then be collected and disposed of safely by an engineer.

How long does a power flush take?

A power flush cleaning process can be a lengthy process, but the results will worth the wait.

The power flush process could take from 5 hours to 10 hours, depending on a number of factors like:

  •        Number of radiators that you have.
  •        How old your current boiler system is.
  •        Amount of ‘sludge’ 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 make sure it doesn’t run into any further issues so that you don’t need a future boiler repair.

Haven’t had your boiler flushed for some time?

Your boiler isn’t in the best condition?

Then this procedure will need more time in order to complete the process.

Read about: Unvented Hot Water Cylinders

3. How to chemical flush a central heating system.

A chemical flush is a more basic version of the powerflush but can be just as effective.

With this process 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.

Proof of improvement:

Once the work is finished, the engineer will demonstrate the improvements made to your system following the flush. This will involve measuring the radiator temperatures and comparing them to previous levels.

The engineer will thoroughly test your boiler and heating system to ensure they are operating at optimal performance.

Through this process, they can pinpoint areas where there is a build-up of ‘sludge’ and identify any potential leak risks.

Additionally, they will provide aftercare advice and suggest ways to optimize the efficiency of your heating system.

Read more: Vented Hot Water Cylinders

How to spot the signs that you need a boiler or heating system flush!

Please find the top 10 reasons why your heating system needs a flush!

  • Is your boiler breaking down?
  • Does your boiler need 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
  • Do your radiators not get warm at all?
  • Are your radiators quite noisy?
  • Is your boiler sounding quite noisy?
  • When bleeding radiators – is the water cloudy
  • Or is there is no water at all when you bleed the radiators.

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.

Read more: Best Heat Pumps, Brands & Pricing

MagnaCleanse Vs Power Flush Vs Chemical Flush

What are the advantages of a professional MagnaCleanse system flush?

Looking after your central heating system is advantageous for so many reasons like:

  • 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 the lifespan of your heating system.

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 like:

A thorough cleaning of your system and pipes leads to a more reliable and energy-efficient boiler, providing you with added confidence.

After a complete clean, the likelihood of a breakdown is greatly reduced.

Within just two hours of treatment, your boiler will operate smoother, cleaner, and more reliably, extending its lifespan.

You’ll notice hotter radiators that heat up faster, particularly beneficial during chilly winter evenings.

Regularly replacing parts due to a poorly functioning boiler becomes unnecessary, offering peace of mind with a consistently high-performing heating system.

With a fully cleaned system, breakdowns become highly unlikely.

Hotter radiators that warm up quickly are an added bonus, especially during colder months.

The need for part replacements diminishes with a dependable heating system you can rely on.

Having peace of mind was never made easier!

Read more: Best combi boilers & boiler brands

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MagnaCleanse Vs Power Flush Vs Chemical Flush – Cost Differences!

The cost of a flush will entirely depend on a number of factors like:

  • The complexity of your system.
  • The size of the system.
  • Number of Boilers.
  • Number of Radiators.
  • Type of Flush.

Engineers must also consider the possibility of encountering unexpected issues, which could potentially delay the completion of the job.

The total cost of a system flush can vary among engineers, typically ranging from £300 to £700, depending on the specific cleaning process.

Additional costs may apply based on any necessary additional work or replacement parts required for achieving optimal system efficiency.

If you choose to purchase a boiler replacement service from us, you’ll be pleased to know that the MagnaCleanse flush is provided at no additional cost.

Furthermore, the flush is included as a standard offering with all our boiler installations, aiming to simplify the process for your convenience.

A central heating system is a vital part of many households, providing cost-effective comfort and reliability for years to come when properly maintained.

To connect with one of our engineers, you can use our online quote feature for an instant estimate.

For more information, please visit our FAQ page or explore our news blog. You can also verify our Gas Safe Registration or check our nearly 5-star Trustpilot rating.

About letsheat

The LetsHeat boiler installation and repair team are fully qualified to the highest standards and take pride in delivering exceptional workmanship. We ensure that all boiler installation requirements are met, regardless of the time or day it’s needed.

Our team of professional engineers has earned an outstanding Trustpilot score of 4.9 out of 5 from our satisfied customers. We are fully accredited by Gas Safe and Corgi registered, as well as FCA approved for all financial transactions.

Read about:

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Best Heat Only Boilers, Boiler Brands & Prices

Full range of heating & plumbing services provided by Let’s Heat:

  • Boiler Repairs & Installations
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  • Financing Your Boiler
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FAQ’s

Is a power flush worth the money?

It depends on how badly your heating system is affected. If the whole system is showing signs of bad circulation, then a power flush will probably be worth the money.

What can cause sludge in radiators?

Dirt and debris particles from water in the heating system can combine with rust to create sludge. The rust develops on the inside of radiators and pipes, so is likelier to occur in older heating systems.

What causes black water in radiators?

The most common cause of corrosion in your radiator system is sludge, a black, mud-like substance which, if untreated, will build up over time.

How is a power flush done?

the engineer will connect a machine to your system. This will push a powerful, low pressure flow of liquid through your system. This dislodges sludge and rust, removing it from your radiators and boiler. It can take few hours to flush out your radiator system.

How much does a power flush cost UK?

A regular heating system power flush will usually cost roughly £300 for a small or average home with six radiators.