Plumbing Tips for the Home

The winter season often brings to light little problems with a heating system that has been idle for 6 months.
Sticky pumps and stuck control valves for example are problems that a competent DIYer can often deal with.
To free a heating pump:
Turn off the heating, lay down a scrap towel under the pump and remove the large silver screw in the centre of the pump. Some water will drip (note the colour - it should not be black) Insert a cross head screwdriver and turn the pump in direction of rotation, you can spray some silicon lubricant in the hole. Refit the screw, tighten and turn the system on ( turn thermostat up) . With luck it will start up.
If the water in from your pump is black, you should consider having the system flushed and cleaned to prevent component failures.
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To free a heating zone valve:
Some are easier than others for DIY work, if the pump has a push button type removable head try the following- remove the motor head and click on the heating, watch the centre of the valve and make sure it rotates, if it doesn't turn call a plumber. Next check the valve, grip the spindle and gently turn, they often seize. If tight spray silicon lubricant on the spindle and gently work back and forth until it moves freely, refit the head and it should all work.
If the valve is stuck solid - call a plumber. 
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