Central heating and shower wierdness

[Andy T]

Hi guys newbie here hoping for some advice.

I have a Potterton Prima B boiler, now first question is this a 'combi' boiler? I have a cold water tank in the loft and a hot water tank in an airing cupbard next to the bathroom.

Second question, why is the hot water pressure on my Redring Active 320 (8.5Kw) so poor?

The boiler also makes some banging noises on start up, and also makes a noise like its switching itself on and off at regular intervals when either CH or HW programs are on. The switching on/off cycle seems to last around 10-20 seconds, is this normal?

I have it set on Max and the pilot light is fine.

The missus recommends a boiler service from British Gas, but at £80 i'm hesitant this close to christmas.

Thanks a lot for any advice.

 

[Gasman1015]

No, its not a combi

Scale, poor mains, old shower

No, its not normal

Listen to the missus.

 

[chrishutt]

firstly your Prima B is not a combi. It heats hot water via a coil heat exchanger in the hot water cylinder.

Secondly the hot water "pressure" on an electric shower is bound to be poor (compared to other types of shower), especially when the incoming cold water gets colder (in cold weather).

As for boiler problem, a service will not necessarily deal with these problems. What you want is a repair, for which the pricing structure is different. Sounds as if circulation is poor, possibly due to pump not performing or sludge clogging up pipes. Could be expensive.

Happy Christmas.