Cleaning the Central Heating System: What Techniques Are Available to You?

Canadian winters are known for being relatively cold. The expenses related to the use of central heating systems are therefore a big part of many household budgets. Whatever your system – boilers, air exchangers, or heat pumps – regular maintenance is essential to optimize your investment and take full advantage of its features. However, the cleaning of the central heating system is too often neglected. Some of the maintenance can be done directly by the owner, such as the filters and grilles. When it comes to the ducts, however, it’s best to rely on a cleaning professional who has the right equipment.

For gas, oil, or wood-fired boilers

Wood-fired boilers are bi-energy – that is, they work with wood and electricity or wood and oil, unlike other systems. These boilers are used for both heating and hot water distribution.

Generally speaking, the heat is delivered by radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water flowing through the pipes distributed in the house to the radiators. It’s also useful to insulate these pipes to maintain a maximum temperature.

Their routine maintenance is simple. Empty the air from the radiators at least once a year to let them fill completely with water and verify that the water level in the expansion tank is normal.

Wood-fired boilers require regular inspection of the chimney and the connecting pipe to avoid any fires due to the accumulation of deposits. However, it’s strongly recommended to have your system inspected by certified professionals each year. They will be able to perform the necessary adjustments and maintenance to ensure the effective, risk-free operation of your central heating system.

For air-source heat pumps and geothermal pumps

Air-source heat pumps have the advantage of both heating and cooling your home. The difference in temperature between the outside air and the inside air will be used to power your needs, depending on the season.

For their part, geothermal pumps use the soil or groundwater – and sometimes even both combined – to heat or cool your home.

These two systems transport the heat (or cold) through a system of ducts distributed in the walls of the house. Air distribution grilles then ventilate each room.

You can do some of the cleaning of your central heating system yourself by periodically checking the cleanliness of your grilles and any filters on them. If they’re dirty, just take them apart, wash them with soapy water, and replace the filters if they’re not washable. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to clean any ducts that are accessible. Don’t forget to clean the exterior grilles; debris, leaves, and insects can clog these air intakes.

When it comes to cleaning the coils, the network deployed inside the walls, only professionals have the right equipment for this type of system.

Central heating system cleaning professionals

Relying on qualified professionals ensures that the quality of the cleaning of your air exchanger ducts is optimal. They are familiar with the standards and technologies present on the market. They have efficient spraying tools and products at their disposal. They are the only ones who can perform a complete deep cleaning of your central heating system. Your home will be purified, and your equipment will work at full capacity.