Adding a radiator to single line GB central heating system

[minmax89]

Hi all.

I've been asked to add a radiator for someone. The house was built in '69 and by the look of the rad layout (and before I start taking up the floorboards!) it's a single line system. It's pretty much all Gun Barrel and there is also a back boiler that can be used. Their boiler is run on kerosene and is out in the shed. This runs around 14 radiators.

The owner says although it runs just right now they've had no end of problems with it in the past. Some rads not working, some luke warm, etc. But all is working good now.

I've no problems fitting an extra rad for them, but when I've worked on Single Pipe GB systems before, the principle behind how they work means adding a rad is nowhere near as simple as adding one to a twin pipe system.

Can any of you expert plumbers out there offer any advice of experience before I go ahead with the fitting? I'm worried that if I fit the rad the overall balance of the system will go to cock...

Oh and forgot to say they have an existing rad in the hall and the new one is wanted on the other side of the wall in the living room so in theory I'll take the feed from that.

Any help much appreciated.

Adam

 

[doitall]

No, you can't take a feed from anywhere.

You need to divert the pipe, so the loop is continuous.

 

[PEDANTICVINDICTIVEMAN]

If the pipe doesn't run directly underneath the radiator it's highly likely it wont work, I would make it very very clear that if it cocks the system up from working properly it's not your problem, better still walk away.

 

[doitall]

If the pipe doesn't run directly underneath the radiator it's highly likely it wont work, I would make it very very clear that if it cocks the system up from working properly it's not your problem, better still walk away.

It won't cock it up if it's done correctly PVCman.

 

[doitall]

Edit.

Posted twice.

Toooooo much to drink or internet problem

 

[minmax89]

...I would make it very very clear that if it cocks the system up from working properly it's not your problem...

Yeah, I told them that.

So lads, how is it done properly then?[/quote]

 

[PEDANTICVINDICTIVEMAN]

Ask doitsall

 

[doitall]

...I would make it very very clear that if it cocks the system up from working properly it's not your problem...

Yeah, I told them that.

So lads, how is it done properly then?

[/quote]

As I said you need to divert the pipe so it runs under each rad as pvcman said, you should also use pitcher tees and bends not elbows.

If you add me as a friend in the profile and send me an email I'll do you a drawing.

 

[minmax89]

You're a star doitall, thanks!

added to friend list. a drawing would be very helpful. I'll try and do one myself to explain my end.

What is a pitcher tee?

 

[minmax89]

it's ok. googled it. Now know.