How to deal with boiler leaks

Discovering a leak in your boiler can be concerning. This guide will help you understand what causes boiler leaks, how to identify them, and what steps you can take to resolve these issues safely. While some minor problems can be addressed by homeowners, many repairs require professional expertise to ensure your heating system remains safe and efficient.

Common Causes of Boiler Leaks

Boiler Pressure

Your boiler needs to maintain the right pressure to work effectively—typically between 1 and 1.5 bar when cold. If you notice water dripping from the pressure relief valve or your pressure gauge shows readings above 2 bar, your system is experiencing pressure issues.

How to Fix It

For high pressure: You can safely reduce pressure by bleeding your radiators. Turn off your boiler, let it cool, and use a radiator key to release air from each radiator. Start from the ground floor and work your way up. If pressure remains high after bleeding, contact a professional.

For low pressure: You can repressurise your system using the filling loop (a small lever or tap near your boiler). Consult your boiler manual for specific instructions, as the process varies between models. If you need to repressurise frequently, this indicates a leak that needs professional attention.

Internal Corrosion

Over time, your boiler's internal components can corrode, especially if you live in an area with hard water. Signs include brown-tinted water from hot taps, reduced heating performance, or frequent pressure drops.

How to Fix It

While corrosion itself requires professional repair, you can help prevent it by:

Having a magnetic filter installed by a professional to catch rust particles

Adding manufacturer-approved corrosion inhibitor to your system annually

Scheduling yearly maintenance to catch early signs of corrosion

Addressing Seal and Gasket Issues

Seals and gaskets naturally wear out over time, leading to visible leaks around pipe connections or the boiler casing. You might notice water droplets or damp patches around joints.

How to Fix It

For external pipe connections: If you spot a leak from an accessible pipe joint, ensure your boiler is off and cool, then try gently tightening the connection with an adjustable spanner. If tightening doesn't solve the problem, or if the leak is from the boiler itself, call a professional.

Heat Exchanger Problems

The heat exchanger is important for heating your water. If you hear unusual gurgling sounds, notice a metallic smell, or see water leaking from the bottom of your boiler, your heat exchanger might be failing.

How to Fix It

This is strictly a professional repair job. Due to safety regulations and the complexity of the work, attempting to fix a heat exchanger yourself is both dangerous and illegal. Contact a Gas Safe registered engineer immediately.

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Issues

If you notice constant dripping from the overflow pipe outside your house, or water leaking from the valve itself, your temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve might be faulty.

How to Fix It

While you should never attempt to repair or replace a T&P valve yourself, you can check if the pressure gauge shows normal readings. If pressure is high, follow the bleeding process described earlier. For any continued issues, contact a professional, as this component is important for your safety.

How to prevent leaks

The best way to avoid costly repairs is through regular maintenance. Schedule annual boiler services with a qualified engineer who can:

• Clean important components
• Check for early signs of wear
• Test safety features
• Ensure optimal pressure settings
• Verify proper water treatment

When to Call a Professional Heating Engineer in Chesterfield

Always contact a Gas Safe registered engineer if:

• You can't identify the source of the leak
  
• The leak is coming from inside the boiler casing
• Your boiler's pressure keeps dropping after repressurising
• You hear unusual noises from your boiler
• The leak is accompanied by other boiler problems

If you have boiler leaks or suspect a problem with your heating system call us at 07891 817026, 01246 912132, or 01433 410213 and we'll be happy to help.