We find that many customers with warm air systems are very fond of them and do not wish to move to a radiator based system when their old warm air unit comes to the end of its useful life.
The good news is that Johnson and Starley have continued to develop and improve their warm air units and offer direct replacements that are Part L compliant.
Both their Economaire and Hi-Spec ranges also offer many modern features, including electric controls that maintain a stable room temperature; electronic filters – the Cleanflow system – that remove smaller particles such as pollen, mould and cigarette smoke from the air; quicker warm up times; integrated water heating options and self-diagnostics.
In short, modern air heaters are more efficient, run more quietly and can be fitted with an electronic filtration system. While the units themselves are more expensive compared with a conventional condensing boiler, they can often be installed in less than a day, so labour charges are greatly reduced.
Furthermore, you do not have to live with the disruption of installing a full central heating system; contemplate where to locate the new boiler and radiators; or decide between externally run radiator pipe work or the mess and redecoration requirements of chasing out walls.
We are also experienced warm air breakdown engineers, so if your warm air unit is playing up but still has some life in it we will be able to fault find and resolve the majority of problems (our standard repair charges apply - see our price page). Please give us a call to discuss your options.
Asbestos Awareness
Nearly all old warm air units contain an element of asbestos and some installations may also contain an asbestos flue that runs up through the middle of the house.
We cannot remove any asbestos containing products unless it is deemed save to do so by a licensed asbestos removal company. Some heating contractors will offer to take out the old unit and dispose of it, but this poses a risk to them and to you and other members of your household if it has not been inspected and cleared for safe removal.
If we can remove it ourselves safely, the disposal of a warm air unit is £450 + VAT (we would disconnect the gas and electrics ready for removal). Prices can be higher for removing an asbestos flue, but remember that not all asbestos containing products have to be removed. For example, asbestos-cement based flues can be left in situ if they are in good condition and do not have to be disturbed during the works.
We work with Asbestos First, a licensed asbestos specialist who are also Medway Fair Trader approved, who can give you a free quote and advice: 01634 23 22 21 or www.asbestosfirst.co.uk.
