Sludge builds up in your central heating system with regular use. It can make the system less efficient or stop working altogether. Sludge is build up of rust particles that come from inside the pipes or radiators due to corrosion.
A magnetic filter helps attach these particles and stop them from affecting the performance of your central heating system. Read on for our expert reviews of the best magnetic filters available. Check the latest prices to ensure you get a great deal!
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 5 Best Central Heating Magnetic Filters
- 3 Central Heating Magnetic Filter Buying Guide
Our Top Picks
Image | Name | |
|---|---|---|
| Magnaclean Professional System Cleaner | |
| Fernox TF1 Central Heating Magnetic Filter | |
| Boilermag Domestic Heating System Filter | |
| Worcester Bosch Greenstar Central Heating System Filter | |
| Altecnic Dirtmag IQ Magnetic Filter |
5 Best Central Heating Magnetic Filters
1. Magnaclean Professional System Cleaner
Corrosion usually reduces the performance levels of boilers and pumps at home. But, thanks to the MagnaClean Professional 2 system cleaner, you don’t need to think about corrosion anymore. Whether you fit this cleaner on your existing boiler or a brand new boiler, it will improve the performance to a great extent. This is the first-ever magnetic filter that has WiFi connectivity, making it the most advanced systems in the industry. It connects to your mobile phone, allowing you to see the performance of your heating system.
Features
Two-minute Installation
This thing of beauty installs under two minutes. It comes with all the fittings and valves. All you need to do is check the direction in which water flows, and then install it either horizontally or vertically. Also, the in-line installation protects the central heating system, thus improving its life expectancy.
No Leakage
Many users complain that their heating system cleaner leaks, making it a mess while cleaning. Fortunately, the MagnaClean Professional system cleaner doesn’t leak at any moment. Moreover, it uses compression fittings that not only makes the unit leak-proof but also helps to install the filter quickly.
Compact Installation
For houses that have a relatively small heating system, this is the ideal clear. Its compact size makes it perfect both for bigger and smaller heating units. Most importantly, cleaning the filter is a cakewalk. Simply open the valves and take the filter out. Rinse it under a tap to remove the accumulated sludge and debris. Ideally, you should clean the filters every week. But, if they don’t accumulate too much dirt, you can clean them every month.
Powerful Magnets
The in-built magnets are powerful enough to eliminate metallic sludge from the boiler.
The MagnaClean Professional system cleaner is totally worth every penny. If you don’t want to spend hundreds on a heating system cleaner, this is the one you should get.
Pros:
- This filter helps your boiler to maintain peak performance 365 days a year. It not only increases the performance levels but also reduces energy consumption. This helps to save a significant amount of money on energy bills every month.
- It is suitable for almost all types of boilers. Whether it’s new or old, this one fits perfectly in all of them.
- The stainless steel body gives it a better build, unlike its competitors.
Cons:
- The makers can improve the drain valve slightly. It will make servicing easier for experts.
2. Fernox TF1 Central Heating Magnetic Filter
Want a budget central heating filter that removes both magnetic and non-magnetic dust particles? The Fernox TF1 filter is the magnetic filter for you. This Corgi award-winning filter uses strong neodymium magnetic assemblies and unique hydrochloric action to filter all types of contaminants from the boiler. You can install the filter horizontally or vertically on the pipework. It hardly takes a few minutes to clean as it doesn’t restrict water flow.
Don’t search for other filters anymore. The Fernox TF1 filter is the leading central heating filter that doesn’t disappoint with its performance.
Features
Quick Filtration
This filter uses a combined process to eliminate sludge, debris, and other dust particles. The hydrochloric action, together with the powerful magnetic assemblies, doesn’t allow any magnetic or non-magnetic contaminant to enter the system. If there are dust particles in the water, the filter will separate it safely without disturbing the central heating unit.
Includes All the Fittings
Most filters don’t have the required fittings and valves in the box. You have to purchase them separately. This variant has everything you need during installation. Valves, fittings, nuts, bolts – you name it.
Both Side Installation
It doesn’t matter how the water flows inside the system. Whether it comes from the top to bottom or left to right, this filter will install both horizontally and vertically. So, you don’t have to consider the type of filter that best suits your central heating system. This one fits comfortably in almost all the residential heating units.
Quick Cleaning
Disassemble the filter within seconds to clean the accumulated debris and sludge. Remove the filter from the heating system, clean the filters, and install the unit back to its place.
Pros:
- It can handle a maximum temperature of 100 degrees Celsius. This is the highest among several of its competitors.
- It has a maximum working pressure of 3 bars, making it highly efficient.
- It comes with a 9000 Gauss Neodymium magnet chamber. This helps to eliminate all the magnetic dust particles quickly.
- With a quick cleaning facility, you can disassemble the filter in minutes. This keeps the heating system safe for years.
- It increases the efficiency of the heating unit, reduces energy consumption, and saves a lot of money on utility bills.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty.
Cons:
- The body is made using glass fiber reinforced Nylon plastic. Stainless steel is a better option.
3. Boilermag Domestic Heating System Filter
Debris accumulation in your hot water system is undoubtedly harmful to your health. Moreover, it also negatively impacts a large part of your hot water and room heating systems. It is, therefore, essential to filter out any debris in your water, be it magnetic or non-magnetic.
Boilermag Domestic Heating System Filters removes harmful debris from your heating system, thereby protecting your health by ensuring the hot water you consume is free of toxic debris. At the same time, the filter pack improves the operating efficiency of your hot water and room heating system and extends the life of the system as well.
BoilerMag offers high-quality filters for those who are interested in keeping their heating system in tip-top shape. This particular filter is useful when it comes to all types of debris, both magnetic and non-magnetic. It is easy to use and can fit pipes that are at all angles. With a 3-year warranty, the manufacturer stands behind the reliability and durability of this product.
Features
Adjustable Locking Collar
This type of collar ensures that you can fit the filter to any pipework angle. Importantly, the collar has been designed to be easy and straightforward to adjust. You can position the filter pack with simple hand adjustments.
High-Quality Seals And Valves
The Boilermag Domestic Heating System Filter uses two high-quality brass isolation valves.
Dual Flow Technology
The Dual Flow technology incorporated into the system ensures the water is filtered twice with one single pass. As such, the Dual Flow system provides the maximum extraction of debris from your water. An added benefit of incorporating the dual flow system is the compact size of the filter system. Since the Dual Flow technology filters water twice in one pass, you do not need a complex system that reroutes water to a second filtration system to get rid of the minute debris left behind.
Easy To Install And Maintain
The Boilermag Domestic Heating System Filter has been designed to be inherently easy to install and clean. For instance, it comes with everything you need to install and clean the system. Such items include a bowl spanner, a magnetic core remover, security seals, and much more. As for maintenance, the filter comes with easy access to the chemical dosing part of the filter.
Automatic Air Vent
The filter has an automatic air vent to remove trapped air. This goes a long way in improving the water pressure in your pipework.
Pros:
- It is one of a few filters to use brass isolation valves for enhanced filtration.
- Easy to install and comes with everything needed for installation.
- Effective in filtering debris.
Cons:
- Does not have retaining shoulders for the O-rings making them prone to leaks.
- The magnet cleaning solution of using the fork it comes with can be messy.
4. Worcester Bosch Greenstar Central Heating System Filter
Want an affordable central heating system filter? The Worcester Greenstar Filter is the answer. With quick installation, this filter starts separating dust particles in your central heating system instantly. Most filters in this range filter dirt from the boiler, but this one goes a level further. The filters don’t allow contaminants to reach the boiler. Instead, it captures them before they reach that part, making the heating system long-lasting. This unit also contributes to energy conservation. So, you can expect lower utility bills soon.
Features
Prevents Over-tightening
Many heating system filter over-tighten and tend to damage the O-ring seals. This one doesn’t. Its body design prevents over-tightening, thus eliminating the risk factors of leakage. So, you can have peace of mind about using this dirt separator.
Isolation Valve Indicators
The unit comes with red and green indicators that show when the filter is operating inside the heating system. Turn the isolation valves 90 degrees, and they will open immediately. This also helps while cleaning the unit.
Bi-directional Flow
The system filter has a bi-directional position. So, water can flow in any direction it wants. Whether it is coming from top to bottom or right to left, the filter will work efficiently. This allows you to install the filter either horizontally or vertically, depending on the direction of the water flow. Just make sure you install it between the boiler and the last radiator.
Stronger Magnet
This variant has a significantly stronger magnet than its competitors. The internal magnets help to separate the magnetic dust particles quickly, thus safeguarding the system components and primarily the boiler.
The Worcester Greenstar Filter is undoubtedly one of the best central heating system filters ever. It is worth every penny you spend, and moreover, you can earn it back by saving on energy bills.
Pros:
- It improves the overall efficiency of the heating system.
- It increases the lifespan of the central heating system and reduces energy usage. This also helps to save money on your utility bills.
- You can install it both over and under the boiler.
- It can collect a wide range of dust particles, sludge, and debris using its magnetic and non-magnetic filtration.
- It comes with a detachable body that helps during power-flushing and servicing.
- Isolation valve has green and red indicators that help during filter isolation.
Cons:
- The internal magnet can capture a maximum of 500 gm of magnetic debris. This can improve.
5. Altecnic Dirtmag IQ Magnetic Filter
If you are searching for a smart air and dirt separator for your heating and cooling system in the house, look no further. With the all-new Dirtmag IQ, you don’t need to isolate the filters while servicing. This dirt separator is also highly efficient in reducing the wear and tear of the heating and cooling machines. Additionally, it brings down energy costs to a great extent, making your house energy-efficient, and the dirt separator a cost-effective investment.
Features
Removing Magnetic Dirt
The unit uses premium-quality neodymium magnets. The Magbelt in the separator has these magnets positioned externally and also in the area that has relatively low pressure. This helps to capture tiny magnetic particles that you can’t usually see. There is no need to isolate these magnetic particles. Instead, remove the Magbelt to empty the accumulated dirt and dust.
Apart from magnetic dirt, there’s also debris accumulating inside the Magbelt. This discharge via a rotational brass bore valve.
Removing Non-magnetic Dirt
This is one of the best dirt separators for residential purposes. If your house is close to a busy street, the dirt separator will accumulate tons of non-magnetic dust. But, thanks to its internal DirtSep technology, equipped with advanced filters, it maximizes dust particle separation.
Air Ventilation
The Dirtmag IQ comes with an in-built air valve to ensure fast air ventilation from the unit.
With a full rotation brass body, Dirtmag IQ helps in quick installation. You can install it on a pipe either vertically or horizontally.
Dirtmag IQ should be your go-to air and dirt separator. It not only separates sludge and dust particles but also saves energy and money.
Pros:
- It is one of the rare dirt separators that improve the efficiency and longevity of boilers and pumps.
- The glass fiber dirt separator chamber is reinforced with polyamide 66 and high-density polyethylene that filters even the smallest dirt particle in the system.
- It has a maximum glycol content of 30%, which is the best compared to all the other sludge air filters and dirt separators.
- It can support a temperature range between 0 and 90 degrees Celsius.
- The maximum working pressure of this unit is 3bar.
- It can capture dust particles as small as 5 μm.
Cons:
- The makers can improve the water-glycol solution.
- The dirt collection cover and chamber is made using polyamide 66. Although this is acceptable, there are other units made of stainless steel.
Central Heating Magnetic Filter Buying Guide
When it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable during the colder months, your central heating system plays a pivotal role. However, over time, these systems can accumulate particles and debris that hinder their efficiency and lead to costly repairs. Fortunately, there’s a solution that can help you maintain an effective and long-lasting heating system while reducing your energy bills: the magnetic filter. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what magnetic filters are, how they work, how to install them, and the importance of regular maintenance. By the end, you’ll clearly understand why a magnetic filter is a valuable addition to your central heating system and how to choose the right one for your needs. Let’s dive into the world of central heating magnetic filters and discover how they can significantly affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
Key Takeaways
- A magnetic filter is installed in a heating system to remove metal particles and debris, improving system efficiency, reducing energy bills, and extending the system’s lifespan.
- Central heating systems accumulate sludge over time, which can cause efficiency issues and expensive repairs. A magnetic filter prevents sludge from damaging the system and lowers energy costs.
- Magnetic filters can be installed during a new boiler installation or added to an existing system by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Regular maintenance, typically during annual boiler service, ensures the filter’s effectiveness and prolongs the heating system’s lifespan.
What Is A Magnetic System Filter?
A magnetic filter is fitted to the pipework of the heating system or boiler. It extracts metal particles and other debris that flow through the pipes. The filter attracts any build-up that could restrict the flow of water. A magnetic filter is made from a large magnet to attract these metal particles and filter them out of the heating system. It helps prevent blockages and keep the water flowing through the heating system. A magnetic filter comes with many advantages to the central heating system. Some of these benefits include:
- Reduces your carbon footprint
- Lowers your energy bills
- Increases the efficiency of the heating system
- Increases the length of the heating system warranty
- Reduces the risk of needing expensive repairs for the heating system
- Improves the lifespan of the heating system
How Does A Magnetic System Filter Work?
A central heating system is built using various metal components. The copper piping and radiators are part and parcel of the heating system. The insides of the copper pipes and radiators rust as time goes by. The rust will break off and circulate through the heating system over time. These particles combine with limescale and dirt contained in the water that circulates through the heating system. All these particles get together to form central heating sludge in the long run. This sludge settles in important places in the heating system. For example, the sludge may settle at the bottom of the radiators. This can lower the efficiency of your central heating system and increase your energy bills over time.
The radiators become warm at the top but not at the bottom due to the build up of sludge. It can result in a pump failure on the heating system. You may even have to replace the heat exchanger of the system due to sludge build-up. All these issues can lead to expensive bills over time. That’s where a magnetic filter comes in handy. The filter will attract all the sludge and take it out of the system. The filter will trap any sludge before it reaches the boiler. The magnetic filter prevents sludge from damaging the heating system over time. It improves the efficiency of the system and prolongs its lifespan. Your energy bills will lower as a result.
How Do I Install A Magnetic Filter?
When you are having a new boiler installed, the boiler technicians may suggest to fit a magnetic filter at the same time. Most boiler manufacturers will extend the warranty of the product if a magnetic filter is installed. You may also add a magnetic filter to an existing system. The filter can be quite bulky and should be fitted close to the boiler system. You should always rely on a Gas Safe registered engineer to install the magnetic filter to an existing heating system. The engineer will disconnect the old filter, install the new magnetic filter, inspect the new filter to ensure it’s working properly, and check the safety devices to make sure they are operating properly. Do your homework before choosing a reputable gas-safe boiler engineer for this purpose. There are many such professionals out there but all of them are not the same. Hire the best engineer in the area for the job.
How Do You Maintain A Magnetic Filter?
When you are having a new boiler installed in your home, the boiler engineer may recommend installing a magnetic filter, too. Most boiler manufacturers will extend the warranty of the system if a magnetic filter is fitted. Like all other parts of the central heating system, the magnetic filter also should be maintained on a regular basis. The build up of sludge inside the system should be removed from time to time. You should get a gas-safe boiler engineer to check and clean the filter at least once in every twelve months. Most of the time, this will coincide with the annual boiler service. It’s easy to access and clean the filter. It may take only 20-30 minutes to clean the magnetic filter. Regular maintenance is important to prolong the lifespan of the central heating system and improve its efficiency.
Sludge builds up in the central heating system over time. The system becomes less efficient and may stop working altogether due to this reason. That’s where a magnetic filter comes in handy. It protects the central heating system and improves its efficiency. That’s why you need to fit a magnetic filter to the heating system.
Our Expertise in Heating and Cooling Products
At Heat Pump Source, we understand the critical role that central heating magnetic filters play in the efficiency and comfort of your home. Our expert team has conducted extensive hands-on testing and research. We aim to provide transparent, evidence-based insights stemming from our industry expertise and years of experience.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
- Industry Expertise: Our reviews are grounded in the deep industry knowledge of providing leading HVAC solutions. We leverage this expertise to evaluate central heating magnetic filters, not just on their features, but on how they integrate with your heating system to deliver optimal performance.
- Hands-On Testing: We don’t just rely on specifications; we put each central heating magnetic filter through rigorous hands-on testing. This allows us to measure each device’s performance, from system protection to ease of maintenance, ensuring you understand how each filter measures up in real-world conditions.
- Transparency: Our reviews are conducted with a transparent and unbiased methodology. We honestly evaluate the features and functionality of each recommendation. Our goal is to offer you all the essential information without any external influence so that you can choose the best heating solution for your home.
- Experience: Our reviews are more than just comparisons; they’re narratives of experience. We explain how each central heating magnetic filter has evolved from previous models, the design choices made by manufacturers, and how these factors affect your daily use.
Our reviews are crafted to guide you through selecting the best central heating magnetic filters for 2024. We provide you with all the necessary information, comparisons, and expert opinions to make an informed decision. With our commitment to quality and your unique needs, we’re here to ensure that your home remains a haven of comfort and efficiency.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best magnetic filters. There are so many things to consider when looking for a magnetic filter. With our guide, hopefully you will have an easier time finding the perfect magnetic filter for your needs!
About the Author
At Heat Pump Source, our articles are the product of a collaborative effort among a team of highly skilled HVAC experts. Our dedicated professionals, hailing from diverse backgrounds in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, contribute their extensive knowledge and experience to every piece of content. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive coverage. Our commitment is to deliver authoritative, reliable, and tailored advice to meet the unique needs of every household and business across the UK.