When to Add Inhibitor to Your Heating System – A Guide by Afterglow Plumbing and Heating
If you want your central heating system to run efficiently and last for years, looking after the water inside it is just as important as looking after the boiler itself. At Afterglow Plumbing and Heating, we’re often asked about inhibitor – what it does, when to add it, and why it’s essential for protecting your system. Let’s break it down.
What Does Heating System Inhibitor Do?
Heating system inhibitor is a special chemical solution added to your central heating water. Its job is to prevent:
- Corrosion of metal components such as radiators, pumps, and the boiler’s heat exchanger
- Limescale build-up, especially in hard water areas
- Sludge formation, which can clog pipes and reduce heating efficiency
Think of inhibitor as a protective shield. Without it, water reacts with the metal inside your system, creating rust and sludge that can shorten the life of your boiler and radiators.
When Should You Add Inhibitor?
There are a few key times when adding inhibitor is most important:
- After Installing a New Boiler or Radiator – Fresh water is introduced into the system, and it needs protection from day one.
- After a Power Flush or System Clean – Once the sludge and debris have been removed, inhibitor should be added straight away to keep the system clean.
- During a Boiler Service – This is the perfect time to check inhibitor levels. If they’re low, we’ll top them up so your heating stays protected.
At Afterglow Plumbing and Heating, we recommend testing the inhibitor concentration as part of your annual boiler service in Birmingham.talk to our Birmingham plumbers about adding inhibitors during a boiler service.
Why Water Quality Matters
Poor water quality is one of the biggest causes of boiler breakdowns. Without the right level of inhibitor:
- Sludge builds up, blocking pipes and radiators
- Pumps and valves wear out prematurely
- The boiler’s heat exchanger can become clogged, reducing efficiency and causing costly repairs
- Limescale makes your system work harder, increasing your energy bills
In short, bad water equals bad performance. Protecting your heating system with a quality inhibitor is a small investment that saves you money in the long run.
Why Use a Quality Brand of Inhibitor?
Not all inhibitors are created equal. Cheaper products may not provide lasting protection, leaving your system vulnerable. At Afterglow Plumbing and Heating, we only use trusted, high-quality brands that we know will:
- Offer strong protection against corrosion and limescale
- Last longer before needing to be topped up
- Maintain system efficiency, keeping your energy bills down
Adding Inhibitor During a Boiler Service
When we carry out a boiler service, we don’t just check the appliance itself – we look at the whole system. Part of this includes:
- Testing water quality
- Checking inhibitor levels
- Topping up if necessary
- Advising on a system flush if the water is dirty or full of sludge
This ensures your boiler is running at its best and protected for the year ahead.
Protect Your Heating System with Afterglow Plumbing and Heating
At Afterglow Plumbing and Heating, we provide professional boiler servicing, system cleaning, and inhibitor treatment across Birmingham. Our goal is to keep your heating system working efficiently, saving you money and avoiding costly breakdowns.
Book your boiler service in Birmingham today and make sure your system gets the protection it needs.
Why Choose Afterglow Plumbing and Heating in Birmingham?
If you’re looking for reliable plumbers in Birmingham, look no further than Afterglow Plumbing and Heating. Our expert team provides everything from routine boiler servicing in Birmingham to urgent boiler repair in Birmingham and full new boiler installations in Birmingham.
We take pride in delivering a professional, friendly service that keeps your home warm, your energy bills lower, and your heating system protected for the long term. Whether you need a quick fix, a full system upgrade, or ongoing care, Afterglow Plumbing and Heating is here to help.
