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Updated: August 28, 2024

A leaking boiler could be an emergency. If you notice any signs of a leak, such as water around the base of the unit or dripping from the pipes, it’s important to shut off the power and water supply immediately. A boiler repair professional should be called to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.

In some cases, a replacement boiler may be needed. Don’t take any chances with a leaking boiler – it’s an emergency situation that needs to be dealt with swiftly and professionally.

If you smell gas or think there’s a gas leak, call the National Grid immediately on 0800 111 999.

If you notice any of the following signs, you may have a leaking boiler: 

  • Water around the base of the unit
  • Dripping from the pipes 

If you notice any signs of a leak, the first thing you should do is shut off the power and water supply to your boiler. This will help prevent further damage and give the repair professional a chance to assess the situation – make sure they are a Gas Safe registered engineer who is qualified to advise you.

Once the power and water are shut off, call a boiler repair professional to come and take a look.

In some cases, a replacement boiler may be needed if you have a leaking boiler. A boiler repair professional will assess the situation and let you know if a replacement is necessary.

A boiler leak can be dangerous because it can lead to a loss of heat or even an explosion. If the boiler is not properly maintained, the pressure can build up and cause the tank to burst. This can lead to severe damage to the home and even injuries or death. A boiler leak should always be taken seriously and repaired as soon as possible.

You should not use your boiler if it is leaking. A leak could be an indication of a serious problem that needs to be fixed by a professional. 

Read more: Essential Things to Know Before Buying a New Boiler

What to do if you have a leaking boiler

Causes of a leaking boiler   

There are several possible causes of a leaking boiler, such as: 

A cracked heat exchanger 

The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the combustion chamber to the water in the boiler. If it cracks, it can leak water and cause damage to the boiler.

A faulty pressure relief valve 

The pressure relief valve is responsible for releasing excess pressure from the boiler. If it is faulty, it can leak water and cause damage to the boiler.

Loose pipes or fittings

Loose pipes or fittings can also cause a leaking boiler. If the pipes or fittings are not properly secured, they can leak water and cause damage to the boiler. 

A leaking tank 

If the tank is leaking, it can cause water to build up in the boiler and damage it. 

Read about: Professional & Reliable Boiler Repair Services

Prevention  

There are several things you can do to prevent a leaking boiler, such as:

Checking the pressure relief valve regularly to make sure it’s not stuck open or closed

If it’s open, close it and see if the pressure drops. If it’s closed, open it and see if the pressure rises. If the pressure doesn’t change, or if you can’t get the valve to move, call a boiler repair professional.

Read about: Common Sime Boiler Error Codes

Checking the expansion tank regularly to make sure it has enough water  

The expansion tank is responsible for compensating for the expansion of water as it heats up. If there isn’t enough water in the expansion tank, the boiler can become overpressurised and leak.

To check the level of water in the expansion tank, simply open the fill valve and check the gauge. If the water level is low, add more water until it reaches the proper level.

Checking the pipes and fittings regularly for any loose connections 

Loose pipes or fittings can cause a leaking boiler. To prevent this, be sure to check the pipes and fittings regularly for any loose connections. If you find a loose connection, tighten it up right away.

Having your boiler serviced regularly by a qualified engineer

Having your boiler serviced regularly is one of the best things you can do to prevent a leaking boiler. A qualified technician will be able to detect any potential problems and make any necessary repairs. They can also give you advice on how to keep your boiler in good working condition. 

Conclusion 

A leaking boiler is definitely an emergency. If you notice any signs of a leak, such as water around the base of the unit or dripping from the pipes, it’s important to shut off the power and water supply immediately and call a boiler repair professional. In some cases, a replacement boiler may be needed. 

Take care of your boiler and it will take care of you – leaks included!

Need a boiler professional you can trust to look after your boiler and heating system? Contact us today

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