Boilers

What is sludge made from?

Sludge is a buildup of undissolved components in the water of your heating system. 

The main component, magnetite, is formed from iron rust when water and oxygen interact with steel pipes and radiators, but it also contains limescale – deposits that form from hard water.


Dirt and general system grime are also found within central heating sludge. Left untreated, sludge and all the various components it contains causes poor water quality and ultimately, could damage your boiler. 


60% of boiler breakdowns are caused by sludge in the system. Having a magnetic filter fitted on your boiler captures many of these particles, preventing them from building up inside your boiler and protecting it from an unexpected and unwanted breakdown.

Book a service

Help keep your heating working as it should with a Baxi service. We offer servicing for boilers, filters, cylinders, air source heat pumps and more.

Related FAQs

What happens at a boiler service?

During a boiler service, your engineer will carry out various checks and inspections, including but not limited to:

 
•    Correct gas pressure and flow
•    Flue and combustion
•    Condition of electrical connections
•    Fans and other key components 
•    Seals are intact
•    Electrodes are in a good condition
•    Safety devices are checked
•    Condensate trap and pipe is not blocked
•    Water and gas pipework

Can I run a bath and shower at the same time?

If you have a cylinder installed, you should be able to run a bath and shower at the same time. If you have a combi boiler, you may notice a drop in performance as the boiler splits the hot water between the shower and the bath.

What are the different types of boilers?

The main types of boilers are: 

  • Combi
  • System
  • Heat only
  • Electric

Learn about the pros and cons of each type here.

Why is my boiler leaking?

If you suspect your boiler is leaking, check for error codes on the appliance, any dampness or dripping, and your pressure level for indications. We also have a range of How-to Guides to help troubleshoot the problem.

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