Boiler Service & Heat Exchanger Replacement in Sandhurst

Recently, we attended a property in Sandhurst where the customer had been struggling with poor hot water performance and radiators that never seemed to heat properly.

They had already had the diverter valve replaced and the system water tested, but the issue kept getting worse over time. This is a classic case where experience, methodical testing, and attention to detail are essential.

The Root of the Problem: A Blocked Heat Exchanger

After carrying out checks, we confirmed that the cause of the problem was a blocked plate heat exchanger.

This part is a common weak point in combination boilers such as the Ideal Logic+ Combi C30. The design uses extremely thin waterways to transfer heat efficiently between the hot water circuit and the radiator circuit. While this makes them excellent at delivering heat, it also means they are vulnerable to clogging with scale, sludge or debris.

Over time, even clean-looking system water can carry enough microscopic particles to reduce flow through the exchanger. The result? Lukewarm water at the taps, radiators that only partly heat, and a boiler that begins to struggle.

How We Replaced the Heat Exchanger

To put things right, we carried out the following steps:

• Isolated and drained down the boiler safely
• Removed the diverter valve to gain enough working room
• Installed a genuine Ideal manufacturer replacement heat exchanger
• Reassembled the boiler with new seals and fittings
• Recommissioned the system to full working order

This ensured the boiler had the correct part installed, fitted to manufacturer standards, and ready for long-term reliability.

Annual Service and Safety Checks

Replacing the heat exchanger is only part of the story. Whenever we carry out a repair of this scale, we also perform a full boiler service to confirm safety, efficiency, and performance.

Our service included:

• Gas tightness testing at the meter and appliance to prove there are no leaks in the system.
• CPA flue combustion analysis to confirm the boiler is burning fuel efficiently and that no products of combustion are escaping into the property.
• Cleaning of key components such as burners, seals and electrodes.
• Inspection of all safety devices and controls.
• Full performance check to ensure the customer’s heating and hot water are restored.

By the end of the service, the boiler was running smoothly, efficiently, and ready for another year of use.

Preventing Future Breakdowns

While heat exchangers are a known weak spot in many combi boilers, there are ways to reduce the risk of premature blockages. One of the best preventative measures is a professional power flush.

A power flush removes hidden sludge, rust and debris from the heating system. Even if the water looks “clean,” a flush can clear the fine particles that eventually clog up components such as heat exchangers, pumps and valves. We often recommend combining power flushing with the installation of a magnetic filter, which traps ongoing debris and protects the boiler over the long term.

Local Expertise in Sandhurst and Surrounding Areas

This job was carried out in Sandhurst, but we cover all surrounding areas including Crowthorne, Bracknell, Wokingham, Reading, Tilehurst and Calcot.

Whether it’s a boiler breakdown, annual service, emergency repair or preventative maintenance, we bring over 25 years of experience and industry-recognised qualifications. As a NICEIC Domestic Installer, G3 certified, and fully insured contractor, customers know they can trust us for professional, reliable results.

Need Help With Your Boiler?

If your boiler is showing signs of:

• Poor hot water flow
• Radiators not heating fully
• Regular pressure drops
• Strange noises from the system

…then it’s time to get it checked before it turns into a full breakdown.

📞 Call 0118 430 0012 today to book a service, repair or emergency call-out with Phase 1 Plumbing and Heating.

We’re based in Reading and cover a wide area across Berkshire, offering fast response, expert fault-finding, and honest pricing.

Job outcome: Heat exchanger successfully replaced, boiler serviced, customer left with reliable heating and hot water. Another home in Sandhurst with peace of mind, thanks to Phase 1 Plumbing and Heating.