How To Install A Central Heating Pump

A faulty central heating pump can cause significant heating problems. So what do you do if you need to install a new pump, and can you do it yourself?

The answer is yes. You can install a central heating pump by yourself! And to help you out, we've put together a step by step guide on how to do it.

We'll look at the tools you need and how to get the job done, from shutting off the water supply to reattaching the electrical connections.

So, read on and find out all you need to replace your central heating pump and get your whole central heating system back up and running.

What Will You Need?

To replace your central heating pump and get your heating system up and running again, you'll need to ensure you have the correct tools.

These can be purchased at any good DIY store and won't break the bank. You can buy your new central heating pump from any good retailer - just make sure you get the correct size for your needs.

Here's a list of the tools you'll need:

• Pliers
• Adjustable spanner
• Bleed key
• Flathead screwdriver
• Electrical tester

Installing A Central Heating Pump: Step-by-Step Guide

Now you've got the tools you need, let's look at exactly how to fit the central heating pump. It can be tricky to reach your pump due to its location in your airing cupboard, but having the correct tools will help.

Step 1: Shut off the water supply and electrical connection

Make sure you have turned off the electrical supply to the old pump before you try and remove it. Also, the main water valve needs to be shut off.

Before you start, it is good to take a photograph of the wiring for reference. You could even place different coloured electrical tape around the wires, so there is no risk of mix up.

Take off the electrical connection cover. And once the wires have been released from the earth, neutral and live positions, you can pull the cable out of the connection box and away from the pump.

Step 2: Close the water valves on either side of the pump

Locate the gate valves or pump valves and shut the water to your pump off. You can do this using your pliers and turning the service valves clockwise until they feel tight.

Step 3: Drain the water from the pump

This bit can be messy as the pump may still have water. Look for the bleed screw in the middle of the pump and remove it. The system should then drain.

Grab some towels and put them underneath the pump as you begin undoing the nuts connecting the pump and pipework. Allow the water to drain.

Step 4: Remove and replace the old pump

You will now be able to remove the old pump. Position your new pump in place. Make sure the washers are back in place - it is a good idea to use new ones if you can to reduce the risk of leaks. Your new pump seals should all be located correctly, ready to be connected to the valves.

Step 5: Tighten the new device to the pump valves

You can now tighten the nuts on the outlet and inlet. Check the connecting nuts are tight enough to prevent leaks, however, be careful not to overtighten.

Step 6: Test for leakage

You slowly turn one of the gate valves in an anti-clockwise direction to check for leaks. If the pump begins to leak, you can try tightening the nuts again. Check all of the connection points. Once you're happy there are no leaks, you can turn the water back on.

Step 7: Reconnect the water supply

You can now reconnect the water supply and refill the system by opening the isolating valves. Again check for leaking and tighten any connection nuts. You must be sure that there are no leaks before you begin the next phase, as it is electrical.

Step 8: Reattach electrical wiring

Now you are ready to reconnect the electricity supply to your replacement pump. Check the photo you took of the wiring to ensure you reconnect the live, neutral and earth wires to the right points. If you are unsure about this part, you can call a qualified electrician to check it for you.

Once you are satisfied, it is connected correctly, and you can switch on the electricity to see if your new pump is working.

Turn your room thermostat up to get your pump working, then crank up your central heating, and you should be good to go.

To complete your installation, you can bleed the system to make sure there is no trapped air. It may be good to bleed your radiators to ensure your replacement pump is working and the whole system is balanced.

Contrary to our selection of central heating pumps, we also sell a wide range of appliances such as wilo pumps, shower pumps, submersible pumps, macerator pumps online today!

FAQs

Is it difficult to change central heating pumps?

Changing central heating pumps can be a little tricky because of their position in your airing cupboard. It can make them challenging to get to but not impossible. You must have the correct tools to fit the new pump, though.

If you follow the instructions on this page, you'll be able to change a central heating pump yourself. The process is pretty simple if you feel confident enough to have a go yourself. However, as with anything, you can always check with a qualified electrician if you are unsure.

Make sure you turn off the electrical and water mains and don't reconnect any electrical elements if there are any leaks, as this is dangerous.

In the step by step guide, we have provided details of everything you need to know. For more information about the installation of a central heating pump.

When should I consult a professional for help?

If you are nervous about dealing with electrical elements, you can call on a professional electrician to assist you with your central heating system and they can change the heating pump for you.

You could also follow our step-by-step guide and replace the pump body yourself, then get an electrician to make sure your electrical wire components are connected correctly.

Where can I find the necessary parts to fix my central heating system?

You can buy a new central heating pump from many retailers on the high street or online.

Ensure you get the correct size for your needs and always read the manufacturer's instructions.

Purchase the correct tools needed for the job as listed above, including an adjustable spanner, which can be found at any DIY store. It's also recommended that you replace the washers so grab yourself some new ones whilst you are at the DIY shop.

That's all you need, so it isn't challenging to find the parts you need to replace your existing pump with a new one.

How much is a new pump?

You can get a central heating pump for less than £50, and even a large one will only cost around £70. Prices increase depending on the size and brand. Although with price in mind, be sure to check out how you can save money on your heating bills this winter.