3 Reasons Your Boiler Might Be Leaking
Posted on: 5 December 2018
Boilers are used in many residential buildings to produce the heat needed to keep a home warm. A boiler can be a great alternative to a forced-air furnace, but boilers can become a serious safety hazard if malfunctions aren't addressed quickly.
Water plays a critical role in the production of heat within a boiler system. If you see any signs of water leaking from your boiler, you could have a serious problem that needs immediate attention.
1. Your pressure valve has stopped working.
The water that evaporates within a boiler can create a tremendous amount of internal pressure. Without an effective way to manage internal pressure levels, a boiler could explode. The pressure valve is responsible for opening when internal pressure levels get too high. Some water is released to bring pressure levels back down.
The amount of sediment inside your boiler can have a direct impact on the function of the pressure valve. Too much sediment can force the valve to remain in the open position, preventing the boiler from creating enough pressure to heat your home.
If you see water pooling near the opening of the pressure valve, have an experienced boiler professional replace the valve quickly to prevent further problems.
2. Your boiler has started to corrode.
Many of the components that make up a boiler system are constructed from metals or metal alloys. As these components are exposed to water over a significant period of time, they can begin to corrode. Corrosion weakens your boiler and allows leaks to form.
It's common to find corrosion-related leaks near fasteners, seams, and valve seals. Localized corrosion can be solved by replacing the worn component, but generalized corrosion that has resulted in major leaks could mean that you need to replace your boiler system entirely.
3. Your pipes don't connect or fit properly.
Because a boiler relies on constant internal pressure to generate heat, any loose pipes could compromise the efficiency of your home's heating system. Some boilers are fitted with pipes that do not create an airtight seal during installation. Over time, these loose pipes will become exit points for water within the boiler.
You can check for ill-fitting pipes by looking for any water leaking near joints or seals. An experienced boiler repair professional will be able to replace loose pipes with snug ones to prevent your boiler from causing property damage by leaking in the future.
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