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F75 Vaillant fault – How to fix

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The F75 Vaillant fault boiler often indicates a problem with the pressure detection system. The boiler has a pressure sensor that should detect an increase in pressure when the pump starts working. If it fails to detect this increase, the F75 error code will be displayed. There are multiple possible reasons for this issue, and it is likely that you will need the help of a heating engineer to fix it. However, we will explain the cause of the problem and provide repair suggestions that you, as a homeowner, can attempt.

Here’s a list of what could be causing the problem.  

  • Faulty pressure sensor – not detecting the increase in pressure.
  • Faulty pump not spinning correctly 
  • Low water pressure 
  • Deflated expansion vessel. 

Firstly as a homeowner you can check the pressure and try resetting the boiler.

Check Water Pressure:

  • Locate the pressure gauge on your boiler. It is usually on the front and may have a green and red section. Or it may be indicated on the digital display.
  • Check if the needle is within the recommended range, which is typically between 1 and 1.5 bar. If it’s below this range
  • Add pressure to the boiler. 

Reset the Boiler

  • This is a round or oblong button on the face of the boiler. It will have a flame with a cross through it. Press for 5-10 seconds until the display resets. This may get your boiler working again on a temporary basis. 

If the previous attempts to fix the issue have been unsuccessful, it is probable that either the pump or pressure sensor needs to be replaced. It might also be advisable to have the boiler serviced simultaneously. The engineer should also examine the expansion vessel and add more air if necessary. The pressure sensor is typically priced at £30-£40, making it one of the least expensive components of the boiler. In general, we recommend starting with the pressure sensor due to its low cost, unless it is evident that the pump is not functioning or displaying signs of malfunction. A new pump typically costs £190-£250, with additional charges for labor.

Remember to follow the specific instructions provided in your boiler’s manual, as different Vaillant models may have slight variations in their procedures. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing these steps, it’s best to consult a professional to avoid causing further issues or voiding your boiler’s warranty.

Why does my toilet keep running??

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Is your toilet constantly running? A common plumbing issue that can be caused by several factors. Here are some possible reasons why your toilet might be running:

  • Inadequate sealing of the flush valve can result in water leakage from the tank to the bowl, causing the toilet to continuously run.
  • A malfunctioning fill valve can cause continuous water flow into the tank after flushing, resulting in a running toilet.
  • If the water level in the tank is set too high, it can overflow into the overflow tube, leading to a running toilet.
  • The accumulation of limescale and debris in the tank over time can hinder the proper functioning of different components, such as the flush valve and other moving parts. This issue is particularly common in areas with hard water.

To troubleshoot and fix the issue, you can try the following:

Inspect the Fill Valve: Ensure that the fill valve is functioning correctly and not causing an excess flow of water into the tank.
Clean the Tank: If there is limescale buildup, consider cleaning the inside of the tank to remove any debris.
If the issue persists or you are unsure about how to fix it, it may be advisable to seek the assistance of a plumber to diagnose and address the problem.

The best house hold wipes in the UK

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As a plumbing and heating company working in thousands of properties each year we found it difficult getting a large durable house hold wipes to clean up after ourselves until we discovered Ultra Grimes wipes. We think they’re great and this is why….

These wipes are 50% larger than the average household wipe, making them perfect for tackling tough messes around the house. Plus, they come in a wide range of options, so you can choose the one that best suits your cleaning needs.

For example, their antibacterial wipes are great for use in the kitchen and bathroom. They can help to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses from surfaces, leaving your home cleaner and safer for your family. And because they’re made with high-quality ingredients, you can trust that they won’t leave any harsh chemicals behind.

But it’s not just your home that can benefit from Ultra Grime Wipes – your furry friends can too! Their pet wipes are made with cosmetic grade ingredients that are gentle on delicate skin. So whether you’re dealing with a messy dog or a cat, these wipes will get the job done without causing any harm.

In addition to being effective, Ultra Grime Wipes are also convenient. They come in a resealable pack, so you can keep them handy and ready to use whenever you need them. And because they’re larger than the average wipe, you won’t need to use as many to clean up a mess, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Overall, Ultra Grime Wipes are an excellent choice for anyone looking to make cleaning their home or pets easier and more effective. With their larger size, antibacterial properties, and gentle ingredients, they’re sure to become a staple in your cleaning arsenal. Give them a try today and see the difference for yourself!

You can buy general ultra grime wipes here –  Ultra grime Mulit-use

You can buy ultra grime PETS wipes here – Ultra Grime PETS

You can buy ultra grime ANTI-BAC wipes here – Ultra Grime Anti Bacteria Wipes 

How to Choose a Smart Heating Thermostat

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Is it time to modernise your home? Do you understand the advantages of smart heating? So, this post will serve as your comprehensive guide to selecting a smart heating thermostat.

Smart thermostats are more efficient and may let you control your central heating system using an app. They may self-regulate based on your behaviours and heat preferences, among other smart capabilities, depending on the type you pick.  

With so many options available, deciding on a smart thermostat might be difficult, but they all serve the same fundamental goal of helping you heat and cool your house. 

What is a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are often connected to the Internet and controlled via an app. A basic one can let you schedule your heating to turn on at a specific time of day, but what if you want to turn it off? If you’ve changed your plans and will be late, you can’t stop it from a distance. However, if you are a creature of habit and spend most of your day at home, a smart thermostat can still help you better manage the temperature in your house.

Geofencing, settings to protect your pipes from freezing, water regulation, regular feedback, and an overview of your heating and cooling routines are all popular features of current regulators. Smart thermostats typically range in price from £150 to £300, depending on the brand and model.

It is also critical to understand how it varies from a smart metre. Smart metres are provided free of charge by the government, gas and electricity providers. They often monitor and provide feedback and use statistics to you and your supplier in order to optimise utility supply.

What is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat has a digital interface as well, but it cannot be linked to the Internet and handled remotely. The newest types let you to programme your preferred temperature and most of them have an automatic schedule. You may reduce your monthly expenses by programming a few starts and shut-offs daily or weekly.  A programmed thermostat is less expensive than a smart thermostat and typically costs between £20 and £100. Whether you pick a smart or programmable thermostat, you need learn how to use it properly or you won’t get as much use out of it.

Features of Smart Heating Thermostats

Although smart thermostats are a step forward in home management, some are superior to others. Some major characteristics to look for in a smart thermostat include:

  • Geofencing – Because you will most likely operate your thermostat from your phone or laptop, the app can detect when you are inside your home or have gone for work and change the temperature appropriately.
  • Remote Access – Access your smart thermostat’s settings from anywhere and modify them according to your changing schedule.
  • Smart Home Integration – The majority of smart thermostats can now be linked to Alexa, Google, or Cortana and controlled using voice commands.
  • Motion and Proximity Sensors – With motion and proximity sensors in every section of your house, you may enjoy the warm welcome of your home or turn on the heating in a room you’ve just entered.
  • Simple Installation – Many smart thermostats on the market have an easy installation that you can handle yourself. Check to see if your thermostat requires a common wire or a C-wire, and if in question, contact a professional heating specialist for assistance with the installation.
  • Zonal Heating – If you live in a bigger home and there are rooms you don’t regularly visit or places that are warmer or colder than others, zonal heating will assist you in achieving the correct temperature in each space.

How Much Money Can You Save With a Smart Heating Thermostat?

Smart thermostat makers typically claim that you will see a return on your investment in their equipment in less than two years.  According to reports, this simple move saves 10-15% on heating and cooling each year, or around £100.

Should I get a plumbing and Heating survey when purchasing a property?

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It’s one thing getting a property survey but it’s a totally different kettle of fish having the plumbing and heating thoroughly checked. 

This is one of our favorite jobs at Flush. It involves a few hours of investigation into a plumbing and heating system. We will inspect how each part of the system performs and inform you what work may be required. This gives the potential purchaser a full understanding of the system and if any unexpected problems which may occur so they can be accounted for during the negotiation of the sale. In the past we have uncovered unsafe gas appliances, broken boilers and a huge list of plumbing nightmares. 

It’s advisable to have a plumbing and heating survey carried out if you’re unsure about any part of the installation, or if a surveyor has flagged anything concerning them.  

You should expect the drainage to be checked of all the appliances, toilets, basins, baths, showers, and sinks. The heating system will be checked throughout, checking the radiators heat up, and thermostatic radiator valves are operational. We’ll check showers function correctly and the condition and age of any taps. 

It’s also advisable to have a Gas safe certificate, this is a safety check of all the gas appliances in the property (Boiler, cooker, hob, fires, etc). This will check that the appliances are working efficiently, there’s no gas leaks and they have been correctly installed. A separate certificate will be provided for this and it should be carried out by an engineer who is Gas safe registered. 

We provide a 7 page document listing all the checks which have been carried out. Here’s a small example of what’s included. 

Or you can also see how we at Flush Plumbing and Heating carry out a survey here.

What’s the difference between a Gas Safe report and a Boiler service???

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A Gas Safe report is a document produced by a registered gas engineer after checking the safety of gas appliances in a property. It confirms that the gas appliances are safe to use and includes any defects found, remedial work required, and maintenance recommendations. It is important for complying with UK gas safety regulations and is needed as proof by landlords, letting agents, or insurers.

How is a gas safe report conducted 

  • The engineer examines the gas appliances, such as boilers, cookers, and fires, to make sure they are working safely and efficiently.
  • The engineer carries out a range of tests, such as checking for gas leaks, carbon monoxide emissions, and the functioning of safety devices, to ensure that the appliances are safe to use.
  • The engineer notes down any defects found during the inspection and provides recommendations for any remedial work that needs to be carried out to make the appliances safe.
  • The engineer produces a Gas Safe report that includes the details of the appliances tested, any defects found, and any remedial work required. The report also includes recommendations for future maintenance or replacement of the appliances.
  • The Gas Safe report is then provided to the property owner/ landlord or letting agent.

when should you get a gas safe certificate

  • For rental properties, a Gas Safe report is required annually by law. Landlords must provide a copy of the report to their tenants within 28 days of the inspection. Gas safe offers some flexibility on scheduling the tests, they can be carried out up to 2 months prior to expiry but keep the same expiry date the following year. 
  • For owner-occupied properties, there is no legal requirement to have an annual Gas Safe report. However, it is recommended to have a gas safety check carried out every 1-2 years to ensure that the appliances remain safe and efficient.
  • If any gas appliance shows signs of malfunction, such as a yellow flame instead of a blue one, or if there is a gas smell, it is important to call a Gas Safe registered engineer immediately, even if a Gas Safe report has been conducted recently.

What’s a boiler service 

A boiler service is a maintenance check that is carried out by a qualified engineer to ensure that the boiler is working safely and efficiently. During a boiler service, the engineer will typically do the following:

  • Inspect and clean the boiler’s components, such as the heat exchanger, burners, condensate trap, pressure sensors, bottle vents and heating filters
  • The engineer may also check the expansion vessel is charged and re charge it if not. 
  • Check that the boiler is working safely and that there are no leaks or damage to the gas valve.
  • Check the boiler’s controls to make sure the thermostat and programmer are working and the wiring is safe.
  • Carry out combustion tests to ensure that the boiler is burning fuel efficiently and not producing harmful emissions.
  • Identify any faults or potential issues with the boiler and provide recommendations for remedial work, if required.

How often should I get my boiler serviced

Having a boiler service carried out on an annual basis is recommended to ensure that the boiler remains safe and efficient and to help prevent breakdowns. It may also be a requirement of the manufacturer’s warranty or insurance policy.

What’s the difference between a boiler service and a gas safe report? 

A boiler service and a Gas Safe report are two different types of checks carried out by qualified engineers, although there is some overlap in the tasks performed during each type of inspection. Here are some key differences:

  • A boiler service is a maintenance check that focuses on the boiler itself, whereas a Gas Safe report is a wider inspection of all gas appliances in a property, including the boiler.
  • During a boiler service, the engineer will clean and inspect the components of the boiler, check its controls and safety devices, and carry out combustion tests to ensure it is working safely and efficiently. During a Gas Safe report, the engineer will also inspect other gas appliances, such as cookers and fires, to ensure they are working safely and efficiently.
  • A Gas Safe report includes details of any defects found in the appliances or the gas supply, as well as any remedial work required to make the appliances safe. A boiler service may also identify faults or issues with the boiler, but is focused primarily on maintenance rather than defect identification.
  • In the UK, a Gas Safe report is a legal requirement for rental properties, whereas a boiler service is not. However, it is recommended to have a boiler service carried out annually to ensure the boiler remains safe and efficient. It is also important to have you boiler service to validate it’s warranty 

In summary, a boiler service is a maintenance check specifically for the boiler, whereas a Gas Safe report is a wider inspection of all gas appliances in a property to ensure they are working safely and efficiently.

Watch our video explaining the differences here…

Why does my gas pipe need changing for a new boiler?

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Working Gas Pressure at a Boiler: Why it Matters

When it comes to ensuring that your boiler operates safely and efficiently, one of the most important factors to consider is the gas pressure. Gas pressure refers to the force with which gas flows through the pipes and into the boiler to fuel the combustion process. If the gas pressure is too low or too high, it can cause a range of problems that can impact the performance of your boiler and even pose a safety hazard.

In order for your boiler to operate properly, it needs to receive a consistent supply of gas at the correct pressure. This pressure can be affected by a number of factors, including the size and length of the gas pipe, as well as any restrictions or obstructions in the pipe that might impede the flow of gas. For example, pipe fittings, valves, and bends can all cause a reduction in gas pressure, which can affect the performance of your boiler.

If the gas pressure at your boiler is too low, it can cause incomplete combustion, which means that the fuel doesn’t burn as efficiently as it should. This can result in a range of problems, including the production of carbon monoxide, which is a toxic gas that can be lethal in high concentrations. In addition, low gas pressure can cause your boiler to operate inefficiently, which can increase your energy bills and potentially lead to costly repairs in the long run.

On the other hand, if the gas pressure is too high, it can put excessive strain on the boiler’s components, which can cause them to wear out more quickly than they should. This can also increase the risk of a gas leak, which can be dangerous and potentially explosive.

So what can you do to ensure that the gas pressure at your boiler is at the correct level? The best approach is to have your boiler serviced regularly by a qualified engineer. During a service, the engineer will check the gas pressure and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your boiler is operating safely and efficiently.

In conclusion, the working gas pressure at your boiler is a critical factor that can impact its performance and safety. If you suspect that the gas pressure at your boiler is not correct, it’s important to have it checked by a qualified professional as soon as possible. By taking a proactive approach to boiler maintenance, you can help to ensure that your home stays warm and comfortable, while also keeping your family safe from potential gas hazards.

Please see our video here .

How to remove a household radiator ?

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Welcome to this tutorial on how to remove a household radiator. Whether you’re renovating your home or just need to replace a faulty radiator, removing it can seem like a daunting task. But with a few simple tools and some basic knowledge, you can do it yourself.

First, let’s start with safety. Before you begin, make sure the central heating system is switched off and the radiator is cool to the touch. This will prevent any accidents or injuries.

Next, gather the tools you’ll need. You’ll need a radiator key or spanner, a bucket or container to catch any water, and some rags or towels to clean up any spills.

Step 1: Turn off the valves

The first step is to turn off the valves at either end of the radiator. These are usually located at the bottom of the radiator, and can be turned off using a radiator key or spanner. Turn them clockwise to close them.

Step 2: Drain the radiator

Once the valves are closed, you’ll need to drain the radiator. Place a container or bucket under the valve at the bottom of the radiator and loosen the nut next to the radiator  using an adjustable spanner. This will allow any water in the radiator to drain out. You may need to use a towel or rag to catch any spills.

Step 3: Loosen the nuts

Once the radiator is drained, you can disconnect the nut from the opposite side of he radiator.

Step 4: Remove the radiator

With the nuts disconnected, you should be able to lift the radiator off its brackets and remove it from the wall. Be sure to have someone help you with this step, as radiators can be heavy and awkward to handle.

Step 5: Clean up

Once the radiator is removed, you may have some water or debris left on the floor or wall. Use a towel or rag to clean up any spills, and be sure to dispose of the water properly.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully removed a household radiator. Thanks for watching, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more home improvement tutorials.

Watch our video here…

Tools required

Adjustable spanner – https://amzn.to/3E8QtAI

Grips – https://amzn.to/3E8QtAI

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This wet vac is one of the best on the market and does not spit when using it. 

Plumb tub https://amzn.to/3E8QtAI 

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15mm compression caps – https://amzn.to/3XyNAQy