Be careful about central heating insurance!

joe.marshall_2

Not sure if I am in the correct thread (as usual). However, given Martin's article about central heating cover, I thought I should post a warning.

We had such (so-called "5-star") cover for our gas-powered central heating system, in Swansea, and the radiators started to fill up with air.

I thought it was the pump, and called the gas/insurance suppliers (better not say which - see below), who's previous contribution had been to come round with a wire brush every 6 months to clean the boiler gas jets.

They came, and announced that there was no problem with the pump (covered under the insurance), and that the radiators needed flushing out (not covered, and a charge of £500!).

I looked into it, and a couple of friends with (limited) relevant experience rapidly discovered that the ballcock in the feeder tank was rusted up and thus not supplying water - net cost £7.50 for a new ballcock plus a few pints for the boys.

I subsequently mentioned this in my local pub, and discovered that several other local people had been given the same story (and one old lady had actually paid the £500!)

So - BE CAREFUL!

Joe

MarkyMarkD

I have heard lots of stories about the company you are probably referring to suggesting that the non-included "power flush" is the answer to every possible central heating fault.

I don't think central heating cover is worth buying at all, but that's just MHO.

joe.marshall_2

Yeah - I think it was "Power Flush", but be careful in any case - I doubt if there is only one company operating this scam!

humfer

If your with Halifax for home insurance, highly recommend their home emergency cover which costs about £40 for the year and covers you boiler if it breaks down, etc..