Replacing a central heating pump is an important task that needs to be done by a professional heating engineer or someone who has experience with this type of work. It is also important to have the right tools and follow the correct procedures to avoid any damage to your central heating system. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of central heating pump replacement and the costs involved.
How to Replace a Central Heating Pump
The following steps will guide you through the process of replacing a central heating pump:
Step 1: Get the Right Replacement Central Heating Pump
Before purchasing a new pump, look at the labels and writing on your old pump. These labels often include pump specifications such as speed and flow rate, which will make it easier to find the right replacement to ensure perfect hot water flow temperature. After ensuring that the electricity is turned off, remove the electrical cover. Take a digital photo or draw the connections if you are unable to take a photograph. This will allow you to put everything back together correctly.
Step 2: Removal and Replacement of a Central Heating Pump
- Turn off the outlet and inlet valves with adjustable spanners by turning them clockwise.
- Disconnect the electrical wires from the neutral, earth, and live positions.
- Use a wrench to loosen the bolts connecting the pump and the pipework.
- Remove the old pump and replace it with a new one.
- Attach the washers and tighten the connection nuts. Once the washers have been positioned, tighten the nuts at the outlet and inlet. When installing your central heating pump, make sure it is positioned correctly, with the arrow on the pump’s body indicating the direction of water flow.
- Reconnect the cable wires to your diagram or photo.
Step 3: Test the New Pump
To get the pump to work as fast as possible, turn up the thermostat in the room and then re-energize the electric power supply. After all the components of the pump are connected, you can turn on the central heating. Bleed the central heating system after changing the pump as there may still be some air in the system. This could indicate that you have caused a lot of disruption. Each pump will have a bleed screw, which will allow you to get air out of the pump.
Central Heating Pump Replacement Costs
Installing a new central heating pump can take up to 4 hours, depending on how competent the person doing the replacement is. Essentially, there are 2 costs involved – the labour and the pump itself. Most engineers will charge the hourly rate for your area, so this will be multiplied by the time it takes to install to calculate the cost of boiler installation. The hourly rate will vary depending on where you live, with London being the most expensive.
The cost of a central heating pump will vary depending on the model and manufacturer you choose. A high-quality pump will cost between £90 and £300, but it is always best to consult with a Gas Safe registered heating engineer if you have a gas boiler and are unsure. A good central heating pump can help lower the cost of running central heating too, so ensure you get an energy-efficient one.
To replace your central heating pump, it will cost between £220-£450. All materials and labour are included in this price. If your boiler does not contain a pump, and the central heating system has no isolation valves, you can expect to pay higher labour costs. This will require the engineer to drain the entire system before replacing your pump.
Should You Replace a Central Heating Pump Yourself?
you are confident enough and feel like you can replace the central heating pump yourself, then why not? However, it is always best to contact a professional heating engineer if you are in any doubts. Sometimes, replacing a central heating pump can be a daunting task for homeowners. However, it is an essential part of maintaining a functional central heating system. In this guide, we will provide detailed instructions on how to replace a central heating pump, including how to get the right replacement pump, removal and replacement of the old pump, and tips on testing and maintenance.