Reasons Behind A Noisy Central heating Pump—Explained

A noisy central heating pump can disrupt the peace of your home and yourself. You can ignore it for a while, but eventually, it will get to you. You may have heard unsettling noises emanating from your boiler and radiator. In some cases, the cause of a noisy central heating system is a noisy radiator and boiler, but at other times, the issue lies with the circulating pump. Have no fear; just like a noisy radiator and boiler, a noisy main heating pump is a common problem that can be quickly resolved at home.

In this article, we will be listing the different kinds of central heating pump noises. Also, we will mention the techniques to troubleshoot these irritating noises.

Before we start, if you want to know about a central heating pump in detail, including its operations, location, and problems, then this guide will help you.

My central heating system is making noises; what should I do?

First, identify the kind of noises it’s making, and to be able to do that, you should know the different types of noises, which are the following:

• Whining or squealing noise

• Whistling noise

• Humming noise

• Buzzing noise

• Vibrating noise

Reasons behind the loud central heating pump noises:

• The build-up of sludge and limescale

• Airlock

• Poor Installation

• Incorrect speed settings

• Internal component getting seized

Now let’s discuss which kind of noise insinuates which problem.

1. The build-up of sludge and limescale

As time passes and usage increases, especially during the winter, the build-up of sludge and limescale in your heating system is inevitable. However, it is essential not to ignore this issue, as the accumulation of sludge and limescale can lead to blockages in the heating pump, radiators, and pipes. These dirt blockages can cause a humming or buzzing noise and not only affect your heating but also delay the time it takes for hot water to reach your taps.

Preventive Measure:

You can easily remove the buildup of limescale and debris in your heating pump. To do so, remove the heating pump, clean it, and inspect it for any damage. However, you will need to power flush your central heating system to prevent further accumulation of limescale, sludge, and debris.

To accomplish this, contact a qualified engineer who can perform the process by adding the necessary chemicals and installing a magnetic filter to capture dirt and dust particles and keep them from entering your central heating system. This will ensure that your system remains clean and efficient for years to come.

2. Airlock in Pipes

An airlock is the most common culprit behind the disruptive noises emanating from your central heating system, including radiators, pipes, boilers, and pumps. Air can become trapped within the system, resulting in a knocking or banging sound. Listen for the telltale noises to identify an airlock in your central heating pump.

Preventive measure:

It would help if you bled out your heating pump to remove an airlock and quieting the noises. The process of bleeding a central heating pump is similar to that of bleeding a radiator. You will need a screwdriver, a pair of gloves, and a towel. Begin by locating the bleed screw on your central heating pump. Before unscrewing it with the screwdriver, remember to wear gloves, as the pump will be hot due to the warm water inside. Place the towel beneath the pump to avoid water spillage.

When you start to unscrew it, you will hear a hissing noise, indicating that air is passing out. Leave it that way until the sound stops. After that, let the water spill through. Once the water is out, the air is entirely out of your system.

3. Poor Installation

Another issue behind a noisy central heating pump is the inadequate installation by your engineer. Poor installation can lead to airlocks and wear down the pump shaft, diminishing its performance and resulting in a whining or banging noise.

Preventive Measure:

To check whether it is installed correctly, check its positioning, as it should be fixed horizontally. If it is not installed horizontally, you will need to fix it, and if you are not confident in doing so, you should contact a Gas Safe engineer to get it fixed and installed correctly.

4. Incorrect speed setting

An incorrect speed setting causes your central heating pump to make noise. Try to hear a humming noise to know if the noise is related to the wrong speed setting. Always ensure that your central heating pump runs at the ideal setting, as a low pressure rating might affect the heating and hot water efficiency. Too high a pressure rating might cause your central heating to get overheated.

Preventive Measure:

First, you need to locate the flow rate on the pump. You will find three speed settings. If the setting is on the lowest and the radiators and rails are not reaching the desired temperature, try turning it up to the second rating. If this gets the radiators and rails to warm up, leave it there. If it still doesn’t work, shift to the highest rating.

However, it is recommended that you consult an expert, as the initial temperature setting done by your engineer may have been done for a specific reason.

5. Internal Components getting seized

If you hear a constant humming or vibrating noise, it could be a sign that the internal components of your heating pump have seized, resulting in the vibrating noises. Not only can this affect the functioning and efficiency of your heating pump, but it can also cause it to overheat and wear down its condition.

Preventive Measure:

First, inspect the shaft. If the bearing on the shaft is not located horizontally, contact an engineer immediately to have it fixed. If left unchecked, the bearing will wear out, and the pump may malfunction again. As a temporary solution, you can give the pump a slight tap on the side to free up the internal components.

However, it is recommended that you eventually remove the pump and have it inspected by an engineer for a more permanent solution.

Is the problem still not solved?

We now hope that after reading this article, you are now able to address the following:

• Type of noises a central heating pump makes

• How to clear an airlock in the central heating system

• How to bleed a central heating pump

• Preventive measures to take

• When to contact a professional

If the steps mentioned above haven’t solved your problem and you still hear irritating noises disrupting your peace of mind, then 24|7 Home Rescue is always available for your assistance. You can call us at 0345 3192 247, whether you are an existing customer or not.

FAQ’s