A boiler repair job often requires more than just the main component. Whether you’re changing a pump, replacing a heat exchanger, or rebalancing a system after a radiator swap, you’ll need fittings and consumables to complete the job properly. We stock a full range of compression fittings, push-fit systems, jointing compounds, system chemicals, and magnetic filtration equipment.
Compression Fittings
Compression fittings create a watertight joint by mechanically compressing a brass olive between the fitting body and a threaded nut. No heat required — making them the method of choice in boiler rooms where soldering is impractical or creates fire risk.
15mm compression fittings — standard copper pipe size for domestic heating and hot water circuits. Full range: straight couplers, equal tees, reducing tees, elbows, end stops, tap connectors, tank connectors.
22mm compression fittings — used for main flow and return pipes and higher-capacity circuits.
28mm compression fittings — used for commercial or high-output heating systems and mains cold water supply.
Installation tips: Compression fittings require correct olive seating and nut torque to seal reliably. Finger-tight plus 1.5 turns is the standard starting point — pressure-test before burying or casing in.
Push-Fit Fittings
Push-fit fittings use internal stainless steel grab rings and elastomeric O-rings to create an instant watertight connection. No tools required — the pipe pushes in to the depth marker and the grab ring prevents withdrawal.
Compatibility: Push-fit fittings are compatible with copper, CPVC, and most flexible barrier pipe.
15mm and 22mm fittings available: couplers, elbows, tees, tank connectors, stop ends.
Jointing Materials
PTFE Tape
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape — the standard sealant for threaded male joints. Wrap clockwise (when viewed from the thread end) to prevent the tape unwinding during fitting assembly. Three to five layers is standard for normal domestic applications.
We stock standard PTFE tape and gas-grade PTFE for use on gas pipework.
Jointing Compound
Liquid or paste jointing compound (Boss White, Fernox LS-X) for sealing threaded joints, particularly on parallel-threaded connections.
Flux and Solder
Flux: Applied to copper surfaces before soldering. Lead-free flux is now standard — lead-based flux is banned for plumbing use.
Solder: We stock lead-free 95/5 tin-antimony solder in 1kg and 250g reels, suitable for all domestic copper plumbing.
System Chemicals and Filtration
System Inhibitor
Corrosion inhibitor (Fernox F1, Sentinel X100) prevents the internal surface of heating system components from corroding. Without inhibitor, iron oxide (magnetite) builds up in the system over time, clogging pumps, heat exchangers, and radiators.
New systems must be dosed with inhibitor before first fill. Existing systems should be tested and topped up annually.
System Cleaner
Fernox F3, Fernox DS40, Sentinel X800 — flushing chemicals that remove accumulated sludge, scale, and black iron oxide (magnetite) from heating circuits.
Magnetic System Filters
Magnaclean (Adey) and Fernox TF1 are the most widely specified magnetic system filters in the UK market. They use a strong permanent magnet to capture magnetite from circulating heating water before it can accumulate in the heat exchanger or pump.
Fitting a magnetic system filter is strongly recommended — and required by many boiler manufacturers to maintain the boiler warranty. They are DIY-installable with basic plumbing competence and connect inline on the heating circuit (typically on the boiler return pipe).
Annual maintenance: Remove the magnetic cartridge and clean off the captured debris. Refit. That’s it.
We stock Magnaclean Professional 2, Magnaclean Micro 2, Fernox TF1 Omega, and Fernox TF1 Sigma in 22mm and 28mm versions.
Trade Packs and Bulk Stock
Engineers working regular service or new-installation jobs benefit from keeping a stock of commonly needed consumables:
- PTFE tape (trade packs of 10)
- 15mm and 22mm compression olives (bags of 50)
- System inhibitor (trade drum, Fernox F1 or Sentinel X100)
- Magnetic cleaner (Fernox X400, 1L bottles)
Call 0330 124 5678 to discuss trade pricing on bulk consumable orders.