Why Is My Boiler Leaking Water?
A boiler leaking water is never a good sign. Not only could it negatively affect your central heating system, but the escape of water could cause real damage to your property.
In some cases, you’ll be able to see the water dripping. Sometimes, however, you’ll have to work a little harder to locate the source and fix the problem.
Let’s take a look at the potential reasons why your boiler is leaking water, along with everything you need to know about what to do next.
Why is my boiler leaking water?
There could be a number of reasons why your boiler is leaking. Here are the most common ones:
1. Pressure
When a boiler’s pressure gets too high, it can leak as it releases excess pressure to prevent implosion.
2. Corrosion/wear and tear
Over time, heating pipes and tanks can corrode or wear away. This causes them to weaken, potentially leading to an escape of water.
3. Loose joints
Regular hot and cold fluctuations can cause pipes and parts to loosen as they expand and contract, releasing water in the process.
4. Pump/pipe seals
When seals around the boiler pump or pipe joints are not fitted correctly or damaged, water is likely to leak out.
Typically, these boiler faults come down to either poor installation or general degradation.
What are the signs of a boiler leaking water?
Some common signs are immediately apparent, whereas others are a little more subtle. For example, a boiler pipe leaking water is hard to miss, and easy to decipher whether you know anything about boilers or not. But keep an eye on your pressure gauge and the surfaces on and around the area too.
If your boiler loses pressure, this could be down to a leak. Any signs of water staining, mould or damp in the vicinity could also point to a leakage.
How to detect a boiler water leak
If you notice or suspect an escape of water but you’re unsure if it’s coming from your boiler, you’ll need help to find the source of the leak. Professionals, like those at Rainbow International, use specialist leak detection equipment and techniques such as:
This will tell you exactly where your leak is coming from, and whether your boiler is the culprit.
How to fix a boiler leaking water
To fix the leak, you’ll most likely need the help of a boiler repair expert. But if you know basic DIY, then minor faults may be mendable. If you can see water dripping from a joint, pipe or fitting, dry it off and try tightening the area. There are also special additives you can apply to automatically form a seal around small issues.
Unless you’re confident, though, we always recommend calling for professional help to avoid making the leak worse.
How to avoid a boiler water leak
As we mentioned, general wear and tear or poor installation are often the overarching causes. So, to avoid these kinds of water leaks, arrange to have your boiler serviced regularly by an engineer. They’ll be able to pick up on any issues that are causing, or could lead to, a leak.
How Rainbow International can help
The unfortunate reality is that any leak has the potential to cause damage to your home, from unsightly aesthetics to structural issues. The good news is that Rainbow International’s water damage restoration service can restore your living space back to its original condition, causing minimal secondary damage.
With specialist equipment and impeccable efficiency, our experts will dry and clean up your property, returning it back to its hygienic best. We have branches up and down the nation, so contact us today to get the help you need.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my boiler leaking water from underneath?
Water leaking from underneath your boiler is generally down to the pipework. Often, this is because they have become corroded over time. But you might also spot water underneath due to high boiler pressure, loose joints and damaged seals.
Is a leaking boiler dangerous?
Leaking water has the potential to cause electrical hazards. It can also lead to mould, which poses hygiene issues.
Does a leaking boiler cause low pressure?
Yes, leaks in your boiler or your entire central heating system can lead to low pressure.
Should I turn my boiler off if it’s leaking?
Safely turning off the boiler’s electricity supply can reduce the risk of electric shock, while turning off the water supply lines will stop the leak.
Why is my boiler leaking from the overflow pipe?
A failed expansion vessel can cause the boiler’s pressure to build up too much. Alternatively, the pressure relief valve may be dislodged, causing water to pass by it.