We currently have a 30-year-old gas boiler gravity fed system. The shower in upstair bathroom is hopeless so we consider updating the whole central heating system and boiler to a modern one. My concern is do we need to rip all the floorboards out to put new pipes in if we want to do so? We are reluctant to do so because all the floor around the house is laminate flooring. I understand we should change all the old radiators but do we need to change the copper pipes into something new? I read from somewhere which says sometimes those old copper pipes are likely to have a minor leak if being put to a pressurized system. We are thinking about changing to a system boiler, not combi boiler, because we do want a good water flow in both shower and bath if two people are using water at the same time. Thanks.
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
Changing all the pipework isn't necessary 99% of the time. I would recommend powerflushing the system as part of the install. I've found if there are going to be any leaks (when converting a gravity fed system to a pressurised) they will be found during the powerflush.
Personally I would recommend a system boiler & pressurised cylinder (depending on incoming mains pressure) as I believe this would suit your needs better. If you would like me to take a look at the job or for more advise give me call.
Many thanks Chris
In most circumstances I would say that the old pipework would be fine. In 16 years of pressurising system I have only had a handful that have produced leaks after pressurisation of system. It is always good practise to replace old pipework during a new installation but this isent always feisable. Some combis are suitable for use with 2 bathrooms but also a system boiler with an unvented cylinder would give you not only a store of hot water but at good pressure that will be sufficient for both a shower and bath to run simultaneously.
another option could be to install a combi boiler that has a thermal store inside.. these boilers can achieve upwards of 18 litres per minute.. they are exspensive tho at around 2 grand, your cheaper option is to replace with the same type of boiler chemical magnet flush (this cleans system water and limits Pressure to old system pipework) do any system tweaks. for example make sure your utilising all of the external pump circulation and that your not using your header tank as a radiator. replace all radiators and fit a shower pump to the system to boost any hot and colds as desired.. i did this recently for a customer and they love their newly revamped limited (intrusive) plumbing system.
