It is both frustrating and somewhat worrying if you notice your boiler pressure dropping constantly. Thankfully, most of the causes are quite common. Also, you can conduct a few inspections of your boiler installation in Newcastle before summoning a professional. It is best to start by understanding what boiler pressure means. It is simply the pressure of the water inside the central heating system. It helps the boiler move hot water around the radiators and pipework.
Primary Reasons Boiler Pressure Keeps Dropping
Several common faults cause repeated pressure losses. Some of them are easy to fix, but others require a professional’s attention.
Leaky Valves, Radiators or Pipes
One of the most frequent causes is a small leak somewhere in the heating system. It may be that the radiator valve has started to seep, a pinhole has formed in one of the pipes, or a loose joint is leaking. These leaks are never obvious. Sometimes, you may only notice a small rusty mark on a radiator, flaky paint, or a slightly damp patch on the floor.
Water Discharge from Pressure Relief Valve
All boilers have a safety device called a pressure relief valve (PRV). If the pressure rises too much, it will open and release water through a discharge pipe. Triggering the PRV several times may damage it. As a result, it will not close properly and start leaking after some time.
Problems with the Expansion Vessel
An expansion vessel helps the system cope with the expansion of water as it heats. If the vessel fails or loses its air charge, the pressure can drop or rise sharply. This situation causes the PRV to open and dump water.
Recently Bled Radiators
When you bleed radiators to remove cold spots, you let air out of the system. It causes the pressure to drop, especially if several radiators were bled.
Filling Loop Position or Incorrect Use
The filling loop lets you top up your boiler pressure from the mains. On most systems, it is a silver-braided hose with a few small valves. If you leave a valve on the filling loop slightly open, the pressure may increase when the system heats up. Then, it escapes through the PRV, and the pressure drops again.
What Kind of Inspections Can You Do At Home
Most homeowners can carry out a few simple, non-invasive checks. If you feel unsure at any point, do not hesitate to contact boiler installation in Newcastle.
Visual Inspections for Leaks
Walk around your home and inspect all accessible radiators, visible pipework, and valves. Do not forget to check behind the curtains and furniture where the radiators are. Keep an eye out for dampness, staining and bubbling paint. Even a slow drip can significantly reduce boiler pressure.
Check the Outdoor Discharge Pipe
There should be a copper or plastic pipe exiting outside from the boiler area. It is the pressure relief or condensate discharge pipe that points down the wall. Turn on the water heating system and check the pipe for signs of water staining.
Increase Boiler Pressure Safely
If the pressure drops below the recommended cold level, you can top it up with the filling loop. Just remember that the method differs from one boiler and its heating system to another. Before fiddling with the boiler, read the manual and follow the instructions. Essentially, you need to open the filling loop valves, watch the gauge rise to the correct level, and then close the valves again.
If you are looking for a reliable hand for boiler installation in Newcastle, MK Robinson Plumbing & Heating Engineer is the name you can trust. We have been serving in this trade for almost two decades. Our team comprises highly qualified and experienced plumbers and heating engineers.
Give us a call today.