Do I just need to clean out my Fernox TF1 Heating Magnetic Filter or do I need a power flush?

Hi all,
I am new to this forum but thought I would give it a try and see if I can get some good advice before spending a fortune unnecessarily ...
Been noticing that radiators downstairs are not getting very hot like the upstairs rads. Seem to be warmer at the top and cooler at the bottom, but even the top on some is only luke warm. Looked up the problem on the net and seems to be pretty unanimous that its a problem with Sludge build up. Had someone come round today to have a look and he pointed out that we have a Fernox TF1 Heating Magnetic Filter installed.....which I had no idea, so it turns out we obviously haven't cleaned this out since moving in which was July 2018, so over 2 years....and who knows when it was cleaned out before that. So, the plumber suggested that we do that which I am going to attempt this weekend, but he also said that if it is full of sludge it doesn't mean that once cleaned it will all of a sudden have a positive impact on the heating system and would take a long time to improve so suggested I still go ahead with the power flush if I want to be warm this winter. So, just want some advice please on this...….will cleaning the filter out this late on make a difference? and if so, how long do you think before a difference is noticeable? If I have to get the flush done, then that's what I will do but don't want to waste £500 if its not needed. I have no idea about any of this, am not in any trade, am absolutely clueless (didn't even know I had the filter afterall!!) I really haven't got a clue LOL, just thought I would post this on here where all you lot who do actually know what your talking about might be able to help!

 

Hi Teki, thanks for your response.....I am going to empty the filter at the weekend and see what I can find.....how do I add Sentinel X400? All seems pointless though if I am going to need to get the system flushed anyway afterwards as you suggest?

 

Thank you for your response...….I haven't done that, will do that now and see what happens....what this space

 

Believe it or not I have no idea if we have a feeder tank in the loft!! Never been up there....we have loads of eaves space that we use for storage so haven’t needed to get up there. Will find out...

 

So have turned off all the rads upstairs and the downstairs rads definitely feel hotter but still cooler at the bottom?

 

My DIY skills are non existent! only one rad pipe seems to be hot with the other just like warm. My boiler is a worchester greenstar 40 cdi convention.

 

Thanks Teki, I am happy to employ a plumber just wanted to make sure I’m not paying out for a problem that either doesn’t exist or is the wrong problem.....really appreciate your help it gives me a bit more knowledgeable so that when I’m taking to a plumber I don’t sound like a total push over!!

 

Ok so I’ve just attempted to clean out my Fernox TF1 filter and I’m stuck already!! The bottom valve won’t budge and it’s in the most difficult position where we can’t even get to it to get a real good grip!! Have attached a photo. Can anyone give me any advice on how to loosen the valve or what tool would get in their to do the job? Don’t want to have to get a plumber in just for this bit! thank you