After sitting unused for six or more months, many commercial radiators and central heating systems are in need of a good service as the colder season approaches. In this article, we look at seven tell-tale signs that your office radiators need servicing, and why you should address them promptly before using your central heating on a regular basis.
1. Overheating
Overheating can arise from numerous causes, including poor insulation, a build-up of air, and a faulty thermostat. If a radiator is hotter than it should be, consider seeking professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.
2. Cold At The Bottom
If an office radiator feels cold at the bottom or takes a long time to heat up, it could be a sign that there is a build-up of sludge, which can hinder the efficiency of the radiator and raise your energy costs. A professional central heating engineer will be able to clean and remove any sludge build-up from your radiators and restore optimal efficiency.
3. Uneven Heat Distribution
If certain areas of your office are staying warm while others are stubbornly cold, or some radiators fail to heat up adequately, this could be due to air bubbles preventing even heat distribution in your radiator, or even an inefficient placement of radiators around your premises. A professional technician will be able to bleed your system to remove air pockets and advise on the optimal placement of radiators to keep your office comfortable and warm.
4. Clanking Noises
Radiators should generally be seen but not heard around the office, so if you hear unusual gurgling, clanking, or hissing sounds from within a radiator or the surrounding pipework, this could indicate the presence of trapped air or lime scale deposits in the pipes. Professional servicing will identify and rectify this issue, saving you money on unnecessarily high energy bills.
5. Increased Energy Bills
Okay, there aren’t many UK businesses that haven’t experienced a hike in heating costs over the past year, but it’s worth keeping a close eye on your energy bills for any sudden or unexpected rises. Often an unexpected increase in energy consumption can be linked to improperly functioning radiators, and can be resolved by a professional service.
6. Leaking Radiators
A radiator that leaks water or air around the thermostat valve or connecting pipes can pose a hazard to employees, as well as risking long-term damage to flooring and the surrounding carpets. Leaks can also depressurise your central heating system and could cause your boiler to break down or develop a fault. Take prompt action to address the issue if you notice that any of your office radiators are leaking.
7. Older Radiators
Radiators that are 15 to 20 years old may require more frequent servicing and maintenance to sustain their energy efficiency. In these circumstances, it may be more economical for you to update your radiators to newer and more efficient models throughout your office rather than continue to pour money into older assets.
Arrange A Central Heating Service Today With Lowe & Oliver
By investing in professional routine radiator servicing, you can help ensure a comfortable working environment for your employees all year round that supports optimal productivity and minimises your energy costs. To find out more or to arrange a central heating service with one of our experienced engineers, please call Lowe & Oliver today on 01865 322200 or get in touch via our website.
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