Updated: 12th April, 2024
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Here at iHeat we’re boiler experts, this includes an extensive bank of component knowledge, and we aim to help educate and inform our customers in any way we can.
In this blog we’re going to be exploring boiler circulation pumps in particular, including their function, common issue troubleshooting and price guidance for component replacement.
A boiler circulation pump does exactly what it says on the tin, boosts the movement of water within a heating system to better enhance its function.
A circulation pump is often located within the boiler or in some cases in an airing cupboard next to the hot water cylinder.
The water travels from your boiler through to the pipes that feed your radiators, towel rails and hot water cylinder, the water then flows back through the boiler to maintain a constant circulation of heated water around the property.
As a crucial component within the transitory functionality of a central heating system, any damage to this component can lead to the owner having a decreased performance from their boiler, wasting energy and subsequently money.
A water leak emanating from the pump
The pump is making an unusual noise
The water flow pipe isn’t hot despite the pump being operational
You have no hot running water
Some (or all) of your radiators aren’t heating up
Incorrect speed settings
Incorrect installation
Leaking pump
Pump won’t switch off
Loss of power
No water running through system
Although in some cases it can be convenient to attempt minor boiler repairs yourself, it’s always prudent to arrange any repair, servicing or maintenance of your boiler to be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This is a fully trained and qualified gas engineer who is legally licensed under the published Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 (GSIUR).
The Gas Safe Register is the appointed representative of the safety regulatory group- Health and Safety Executive.
All registered Gas Safe engineers should carry and be able to present official accreditation and have a verified and unique ID number.
All of our iHeat engineers are registered Gas Safe!
As with any type of boiler component replacement, there are a few factors that may influence the eventual total for the new part and labour costs.
The boiler brand, boiler style and model, merchant rates and engineer labour rates will all directly affect the amount you will be required to pay in order to fix a faulty or broken circulation pump.
You can expect to pay around £150-£300 (including installation fees) for a top quality circulation pump, with the pump price itself usually ranging from £95-£150 and professional labour costs usually in the region of £100-£150.
Grundfos is a renowned and celebrated water pump manufacturer, and many of their domestic pumps offer a premium choice when it comes to providing a strong supply of circulating water throughout a property.
Some high quality domestic Grundfos pump models include-
UPS2 15-60
UPS2 25-80
Alpha 2 L 15-50
Alpha 2 L 15-60
While an individual component such as a circulation pump can be replaced in isolation, if your boiler is starting to show signs of more serious or repeat decay, it may be beneficial to upgrade to a newer, more efficient boiler.
The best way of ensuring your boiler is operating as it should, is by proactively replacing ageing or faulty boilers at the earliest signs of degradation, this preventative step is far more prudent than reactive maintenance.
It’s a mechanical and engineering fact that due to some of the technological advancements in recent times, modern boilers are more robust and efficient than anything made previously.
The primary function of a boiler circulating pump is to ensure the continuous flow of hot water from the boiler to the radiators and back again. This circulation is crucial for the even distribution of heat throughout your home's central heating system, which helps maintain consistent room temperatures and enhances the overall energy efficiency of the system.
Signs that your boiler circulator pump might be failing include:
Unusual Noise: Any grinding or humming noises from the pump might suggest mechanical wear or an electrical fault.
No Heat: A lack of heating in the radiators, despite the boiler operating, indicates that the pump may not be circulating water effectively.
Leaking: Any visible leaks around the pump are typically due to seal failures.
Increased Energy Bills: An inefficient pump can cause the system to operate for longer periods, thus raising your energy costs.
Failure of the circulator pump will result in no hot water being distributed around your house, meaning the radiators will not heat up. Additionally, the boiler may overheat due to the lack of water circulation, posing a risk of damage to the system and potentially hazardous situations.
In the UK, replacing a boiler circulating pump can typically cost between £150 and £400. This price range covers both the pump itself, which can cost between £100 to £250, and the labour involved in the installation.
A boiler circulating pump generally has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. This duration can vary based on the pump’s quality, the operating conditions, and the regularity of maintenance performed on the heating system.
The cost to replace a boiler pump in the UK, as detailed above, generally ranges from £150 to £400. This estimate includes the cost of the new pump and the associated labour for installation.
To replace a circulation pump in the UK, the costs align with those previously mentioned for boiler pumps, ranging from £150 to £400, depending on the complexity of the system and the pump model chosen.
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