Boiler buddy / Magnaclean or other?

[JDR]

Hi all,

Looking for some advice.

In the new year we will be getting a new combi boiler fitted (replacing existing conventional system), we have a few quotes and one item that we have been advised to fit is a magnetic filter on the C/H return. No problem with this - a sensible thing to do. Question is which?

The Boiler Buddy and Magnaclean are the two that have been suggested. Though if there are others to consider please recommend.

What are the pro's and con's of each?

Such as:
initial cost
effectiveness
durability
ease of maintenance
frequency of cleaning (British Gas rep, who I did not take a liking to or the price he quoted suggested Magnaclean only needs to be cleaned annually whereas Boiler Buddy every 3 months - surely that cannot be right?
known problems - blocking/leaks

For info and if it makes any difference - it is a 3 bed semi - will have 8 radiators in total. All but one of the radiators is probably 15+ years old. Will be powerflushed before replacement obviously and we are in a hard water area. Not had any problems associated with corrosion of the existing system.

Thanks
John

 

[htgeng]

Magnaclean has the best design for ease of cleaning.

I bought a boilerbuddy when they first launched and sent it back when I looked at the design. It also relies on pump valves which are horrible at the best of times.

 

[JohnD]

I've only used a Magnaclean, but it is very simple to empty. Just takes a few mins and needs no plumbing skills. Can be fitted vertically (ish) so it doesn't let water run out when you open it.

 

[bengasman]

Neither of them will hurt but are not a substitute for a proper powerflush. They are great for removing metal, but do little or nothing for some variations of corrosion, steel is polyvalent, and will not remove dust, debris, or limescale