The Magnaclean filtration system has grown in popularity, with over 5 million installations across the United Kingdom alone. Essentially, a Magnaclean system is a magnetic central heating filtration system used to collect debris such as rust and sludge from your boiler and its pipework.
Ultimately, these magnetic filters work to clean your central heating system and prolong the lifespan of your boiler.
The process is somewhat twofold: The Magnacleanse flush is a professional procedure (that uses magnetic force) to clear radiators of stubborn sludge and debris. The MagnaCleanse filter, on the other hand, is an at-home filtration system installed in the pipework to ensure continuous filtration. The Magnaclean filter works all year long to ensure that your central heating systems stay clean and debris-free. Both systems work well together, with a MagnaCleanse being an initial deep clean and the Magnaclean filter woking to capture debris all year long.
If you have ever wondered, “What is Magnaclean?” this guide is for you!
What is a MagnaClean?
Magnaclean is a specialised boiler cleaning system with a magnetic filter, created by a former employee of British Gas. Many boiler installers and engineers have used these filters, with successful installation in millions of UK homes to date.
The filter is installed in the pipework before any water enters the system, and thanks to its magnetic properties, it can easily collect debris and dirt in the water.
How Does a MagnaClean Work?
The Magnaclean filter works via magnets. As hot water circulates around the central heating system, a build-up of iron oxide rust, debris, and sludge is inevitable. If left untreated, however, they can impact the efficiency of the system. This is where Magnaclean filters step in. These filters latch onto the magnetic debris in the water and stop them from eroding or damaging the system or the heat exchanger and collect inside the filter.
Ultimately, this system offers excellent protection to your system. Iron oxide sludge can diminish the effectiveness of heating systems over time, which can severely impact your radiators’ ability to emit heat optimally.
Every so often, at least once a year, the filter should be cleaned. This can be done yourself or as part of your boiler service by a plumbing professional.
How to Install a Magnaclean
Amazingly, the MagnaClean system can be fitted to your existing heating system, and this means that you don’t have to worry about upgrading it or replacing your boiler. Ideally, a Magnaclean filter should be fitted between your boiler and the last radiator. This should offer the best protection to the entire system and ensure that all debris is caught.
While you could get a professional plumber or engineer to install the filter for you (which is usually optimal since they will also do a MegaCleanse procedure), you can also do it yourself by following these steps. It is specifically designed to be a user-friendly operation. However, you’ll need to feel confident with manoeuvring radiator valves and using a spanner. Steps include:
Step 1: Turn off the central heating system and drain it of all water. (Also known as ‘bleeding‘)
Step 2: Next up, you will want to mark the exact location where the filter will be fitted (ideally between the last radiator and the boiler) and remove that particular section of the pipework.
Step 3: Attach the special Magnaclean system, being sure not to overtighten the connections.
Step 4: Lastly, when your system is on, make sure there aren’t any leaks!
Benefits of a MagnaClean
There are numerous benefits when you install a Magnaclean system. Unlike a power flush chemical clean, which can sometimes put a strain on a boiler system and create a big mess, the Magnaclean system works all year long to enhance the health of your central heating system and keep it clean. Benefits include:
Easy installation: You can fit the MagnaClean filter yourself or opt for installation by a Magnaclean professional. In this case, they will usually conduct a Magnacleanse. You should only need one of these, and then the Magnaclean filter will do its job effectively.
Enhanced lifespan: These systems, using their filter Magnaclean, will enhance the lifespan of any central heating system. As such, this will save you money in the long run and ensure that you do not have to fork out for a costly new boiler unexpectedly.
Hotter Radiators: When your central heating system is working optimally, your radiators will get hotter more quickly. This means a warmer home, quicker circulation of warmth, and lower bills.
Cost-Effective: When the system works as it should, you can significantly reduce energy bills each month, as you’re boiler won’t have to be on as long to get the job done. Added to this, a healthy system will have a much longer lifespan, and costs associated with the installation of a new boiler can be avoided.
What is a MagnaCleanse?
A MagnaCleanse can be part of the magnaclean filtration system. This is when the professionals come in and use a temporary magnetic filter to clean your heating system. In this instance, a Vibraclean agitator is held against the outside of your radiators by the technician. Utilising magnetic force effectively dislodges any dirt or build-up of sludge and grime. A MagnaCleanse is a more extreme procedure than the Magnaclean filters and is an excellent choice before installing the at-home magnetic filter.
Benefits of a MagnaCleanse
Much like the benefits of the Magnaclean at-home filtration system, a professional MagnaCleanse can enhance the lifespan of radiators and lead to greater efficiency. When radiators warm up faster and do their job correctly, this can also save you on entry bills in the long run.
How Much Does a MagnaClean Cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of your pipework and the type of magnetic filter that you choose since there is a range of options available. A basic model for smaller pipes can cost between £50-£80, whereas a larger pipe system and a more advanced filter can cost up to £300. These figures also won’t include the price of the technician if you choose professional installation. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes before you install your magnet filter.
In terms of Warranty, different Magnaclean products have different guarantees. However, most should protect you for between 2 and 10 years. Always inquire with your installer, and be sure to keep the paperwork at hand in case something goes wrong.
MagnaClean Maintenance
A Magnaclean magnetic filter should be cleaned once a year – this should be efficient in terms of maintenance. If you feel comfortable with reinstalling it, you can do this from home, or you can consult the professionals as part of your boiler maintenance programme. Always be sure to work with gas safe technicians if you have a gas boiler to ensure optimum safety.
Conclusion
If you are looking to explore Magnaclean options and want to inquire about the benefits, it is certainly worth asking the experts for advice. Get in touch today, and we’ll gladly advise you on how this system could protect your heating system and enhance its functions.