Why is my boiler leaking?
04/04/20
Common causes
1. Pipework
The pipes immediately underneath your boiler are usually the number one culprit for a leaking boiler. The most common cause is the corrosion of the pipes.
Over time, the water combined with the metallic debris within the system will corrode the copper piping eventually leading to small gaps where water can escape from.
If your boiler is new – perhaps even just installed – then it is more likely that some joints in the new boiler pipework have been fitted incorrectly.
2. Pressure is too high!
Too much pressure can cause a boiler to break down – who can relate?!
If the boiler pressure is too high (too much water), the PRV – pressure release valve – will discharge excess water, or parts will fail internally causing the leak.
If you find that your boiler is leading from its pressure valve, the pressure level may be too high.
A boiler’s pressure should usually be between 1 and 2 bars, so when the pressure exceeds this, the PRV will leak water to prevent the appliance from erupting.
Occasional drops of water coming from the boiler valve are fairly normal, however, should a large amount of water be escaping from the system it could mean that the pipe is working overtime.
If this is the case, try reducing the boiler’s pressure or get in touch with PlusHeat who will send a Gas Safe Engineer to the rescue.
3. Corrosion and general system wear
Lots of corrosion = lots of leaks.
Time heals all wounds. Except boilers. Time kills boilers… AND causes leaks.
If your boiler’s pipes or tanks become corroded they could weaken and eventually begin to allow water to escape.
If it is one, single element of your boiler system that is corroded, such as the valve, you may be able to resolve the issue by getting this part replaced. However, should the corrosion be widespread and across the whole system, your boiler may be beyond economical repair which could mean that you would have to replace it.
4. Installation faults
When boilers develop leaks around their pipe fittings, it is usually due to low-quality installations where the engineer has not worked to a high standard followed regulations, or did not fit it properly.
5. Loose joints
Much like cracks and splits, this problem tends to develop due to hot and cold contraction and expansion. Good news? This issue is usually easy to fix.
What should I do if my boiler is leaking?
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- 1. Complete visual checks (identify exactly where the leak is coming from)
- 2. Minimise damage by collecting water in a bowl
- 3. Correct pressure if possible
- 4. Appoint a heating engineer
- 5. If your boiler is more than 10 years old, you may need to prepare for a boiler replacement
How serious is a boiler leak?
A leaking boiler indicates that an internal component such as a seal or valve is broken. The leak can lead to corrosion and rust or can cause electric components within the boiler to short circuit. It could even cause problems in your house, like structural damage. Leaking boiler repairs should be conducted as soon as possible.
