Sofia Martinez
Plastic pipes have become an increasingly popular alternative to copper, steel, and cast iron for central heating systems. They are flexible, easy to install, and cheap. However, plastic pipes are less thermally conductive than their metal counterparts, which can lead to increased energy consumption and costs. They are also less durable and more vulnerable to changes in temperature. Plastic pipes are also difficult to recycle, which has a negative impact on the environment. Despite these drawbacks, plastic pipes are still a common choice for new-build homes and retrofitting projects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most popular pipework manufacturing materials | Stainless steel and carbon fibre |
| Other pipework options | Non-metallic, plastic, lined piping, concrete, copper, fibreglass, aluminium |
| Plastic pipe advantages | Flexibility, lightweight, easy to install, low price point, less prone to freezing |
| Plastic pipe disadvantages | Less thermally conductive than metal, shorter service life, vulnerable to temperature changes, not environmentally friendly, lack of evidence for quality |
| Copper pipe advantages | Aesthetic, lightweight, flexible, compact, less susceptible to corrosion than other galvanized steel pipes |
| Copper pipe disadvantages | Prone to corrosion, costly, requires skilled installer for braze welding |
| Central heating installation considerations | Size of the project, chosen system, time taken, number of radiators, style and size of radiators, type of boiler, complexity of existing pipework/system |
| Central heating installation steps | Create a map of the system, buy necessary parts, install radiators, lay pipes, install control system, shut off water and gas supply, install boiler, commission the system |
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What You'll Learn
Planning the central heating system
Planning a central heating system requires careful planning and a sound understanding of the necessary materials. Here are some key considerations when planning a central heating system:
Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of boiler for your system. The boiler is the main heat source in a central heating system, and it is crucial to select one that is large enough to heat your home and supply hot water to sinks and bathtubs, yet not too large, as this can result in higher monthly expenses due to heat loss. The boiler's style and size will also impact the complexity and price of the installation.
Next, you should decide on the number, style, and size of radiators you need. Larger and more elaborate radiators will generally be more costly. Radiators are typically installed beneath windows to combat heat loss, but if your windows reach the floor, place them adjacent to the window for effective heat control. Thermostatic radiator valves, while pricier, offer fine-tuned temperature control in each room.
Now, you should create a map of your central heating system, serving as a blueprint for installing all the separate parts. Plan to install the boiler in a spot that allows easy connection to water pipes, the gas main, and offers a ventilation shaft to the roof. Mark out where the pipes will run, either along the walls or under the floor, ensuring they don't interfere with floor nails or other fixtures.
When planning the pipework, consider the array of conditions the pipes will encounter, especially shifts in temperature and material strength. Plastic pipes are popular for their flexibility, low cost, and ease of installation, but they may not offer the same longevity as metal pipes. Copper pipes are a common choice due to their flexibility, lightweight nature, and resistance to corrosion, but they do require decent insulation to prevent heat loss.
Finally, remember to research and acquire all the necessary tools and parts for the installation, including valves, control systems, and fittings. Some parts may be specific to the type of boiler chosen, so ensure you have all the correct components before beginning the installation.
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Buying the necessary parts
Plastic pipes have become a popular alternative to metals like copper, cast iron, and steel for central heating systems. Plastic pipes are cheaper, easier to install, and more flexible than their metallic counterparts. They can run up to 25 metres underground without any joint requirements and are less prone to freezing. However, they are less thermally conductive, which leads to increased energy consumption and operating costs.
When it comes to buying the necessary parts for plumbing central heating with plastic pipes, there are several considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, plan the layout of your central heating system by creating a map that serves as a blueprint for installing all the separate parts. This includes deciding on the location of the boiler, radiators, and pipes. The boiler should be placed with easy access to the water pipes, gas main, and ventilation shaft. Radiators are typically installed beneath windows to prevent heat loss, but if your windows reach the floor, place them adjacent to the window.
Next, determine the heating capacity required by considering factors such as the number of windows, doors, and exterior walls that contribute to heat loss. Choose a boiler that is sized appropriately for your heating needs while also being energy efficient. A larger boiler will result in higher expenses due to heat loss. Additionally, select radiators that fit your budget and aesthetics while considering the size and style that align with your heating requirements. Thermostatic radiator valves, while more expensive, offer fine-tuned temperature control for each room.
When purchasing plastic pipes, opt for reputable brands that offer guarantees on their products, such as John Guest Speedfit, which guarantees its fittings and pipes for 50 years. Plastic pipes like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) are widely used, durable, and easy to install. They are known for their flexibility, allowing them to bend around corners and run through holes in joists without the need for notching or soldering. Ensure you also acquire the necessary tools for installation, such as a pipe cutter, which provides a cleaner cut than a traditional saw.
Other parts to consider include wheel valves and lock shield valves for regulating water flow to the radiators, as well as compression or capillary joints for connecting copper pipes. Remember to use stiffener sleeves in the ends of the plastic pipes before inserting them into the fittings. If you are unsure about any specific parts or tools needed, consult with plumbing experts or refer to manufacturer guidelines for guidance.
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Installing radiators
When choosing where to install radiators, it is important to note that most radiators are placed beneath windows to combat heat loss. However, if your windows reach the floor, place the radiators adjacent to the window for the most effective heat control. Radiators should be installed about 4 to 6 inches from the floor to leave room for the valves and pipes, and to allow for cleaning.
When installing radiators, you will need to install a wheel valve on the flow connection and a lock shield valve on the return connection. This will allow you to regulate the water flow. The pipes should then be laid from the radiators to the boiler, with copper pipes and either compression or capillary joints. Ensure that the pipes vent to the radiators to avoid air locks and system malfunctions.
Finally, commission the central heating system by closing all vents on the radiators, filling the system with water, and allowing each radiator to vent through. Activate the heating pump and re-vent the system. Then, switch on the boiler and balance the flow of heated water to each radiator using the lock shield valves. Thermostatic valves allow for fine temperature control in each room but are more expensive.
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Laying the pipes
When creating a map of your central heating system, plan to lay the pipes either along the walls or under the floor. If you choose to lay them under the floor, make sure to clearly mark where they will be so that you do not damage them when laying the flooring.
When laying the pipes, remember to take into account that windows, doors, and exterior walls all lose heat in the colder seasons. Most radiators are installed beneath windows to combat heat loss through the window. If your windows reach the floor, place the radiators adjacent to the window for the most effective heat control.
The pipes should be laid from the radiators and faucets to the boiler. You will need copper pipes with either compression or capillary joints. Make sure the pipes vent to the radiators to avoid air locks and malfunctioning of the system.
If you are using plastic pipes, they can be very effective and durable when fitted underfloor. They are easier to install than copper pipes, as they can be easily cut to the correct size and do not require soldering or flames, which reduces costs. Plastic pipes are also less prone to freezing and have been tested to a 10-bar pressure gauge.
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Commissioning the system
Commissioning a central heating system is a crucial phase in the installation process that ensures the system is effective and safe. It involves a series of meticulous checks, tests, and adjustments to ensure the boiler meets all performance and safety criteria. Here is a step-by-step guide to commissioning your central heating system:
Clean the System
After installing the heating system, thoroughly clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions. This step is essential to prevent sludge, a substance composed of dissolved and rusted metal from your central heating system's pipework, from flowing through your new boiler's heat exchanger.
Add a Corrosion Inhibitor
Add a corrosion inhibitor to the system to protect the radiators, prevent hydrogen gas formation, increase boiler efficiency, and reduce the risk of corrosion and future repairs.
Conduct a Gas Tightness Test
This test verifies the gas pressure in the pipework from the meter to the boiler. It ensures that the pipes can hold the correct pressure, preventing leaks and reducing the need for future repairs.
Close the Vents and Fill the System with Water
Close all the vents on the radiators and fill the system with water. Allow each radiator to vent through, and then re-vent the system.
Activate the Heating Pump and Switch on the Boiler
Turn on the heating pump and then the boiler. Balance the flow of heated water to each radiator by adjusting the lock shield valves. This ensures that each radiator receives the appropriate amount of heated water for optimal performance.
Final Checks and Adjustments
The engineer will then perform final checks and adjustments to ensure the system meets all safety and performance standards. They will also explain the guarantee and warranty details, as well as provide information about regular boiler servicing and maintenance requirements.
Remember, commissioning a central heating system is a legal requirement in the UK and must be carried out by a qualified Gas Safe Registered engineer.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic pipes are bendy, easy to install and relatively cheap. They are also less prone to freezing and are tested to a 10 bar pressure gauge.
Plastic pipes are less thermally conductive than their metal counterparts, which means they take longer to transfer heat from the source to the outlet, resulting in increased energy consumption, operating costs and emissions. They are also less durable than metal alternatives and more vulnerable to changes in temperature. Plastic pipes are also harder to recycle.
Copper, cast iron, steel, stainless steel, carbon fibre, concrete, fibreglass and aluminium are all alternatives to plastic pipes. Copper is the most popular alternative, but it is susceptible to corrosion.
Plastic pipes are easy to install and don't require any tools other than a plastic pipe cutter. They can be used with push-fit connectors and push-fit inserts.
