A boiler leak can be a stressful situation, especially if you're unsure how to proceed. Hot water, potential damage to your home, and a cold house are just some of the concerns that might come to mind. However, with the right steps, you can minimise the damage and get your heating system back up and running quickly.

A Guide to When You Have a Leaky Boiler

1. Identify the Source of the Leak

The first step is to locate the source of the leak. Here are some common areas to check:

• Pressure relief valve: This valve releases excess pressure from the boiler and may drip occasionally. A small amount of dripping is normal, but a continuous leak requires attention.
• Radiator valves: These control the flow of hot water to your radiators. A leak around the valve stem or from the connection to the pipe might be the culprit.
• Pipes: Leaks can develop in the pipes that connect to the boiler, especially around joints or if the pipes are corroded.
• Safety release valve: This valve releases water if the boiler overheats. A leak here could indicate a deeper problem with the boiler itself.

2. Minimise Further Damage

Once you've identified the leak, take steps to prevent further damage:

• Turn off the boiler: Locate the isolator switch on the boiler's pipework and turn it to the "off" position. This will stop the flow of water to the boiler and prevent the leak from worsening.
• Turn off the central heating: This will prevent cold water from circulating through the system and potentially causing further issues.
• Locate the water stopcock: This valve controls the water supply to your entire home. If the leak is significant, you may need to turn off the main water supply to isolate the boiler completely.
• Contain the leak: Place towels or buckets under the leak to catch dripping water and prevent it from spreading.

3. Careful Attempting a DIY Repair

While the temptation to fix a minor leak yourself might be strong, it's generally not recommended. Boilers are complex appliances, and improper repairs can lead to further problems or even safety hazards. Here's why it's best to call a professional plumber:

• Safety Concerns: Boilers contain hot water and gas, which can be dangerous if not handled correctly. A qualified plumber has the expertise and safety gear to handle these elements safely.
• Accurate Diagnosis: Even a seemingly simple leak can have a hidden cause. A plumber can diagnose the problem accurately and recommend the most appropriate solution.
• Long-Term Solutions: Professional plumbers use high-quality materials and proper techniques to ensure a long-lasting repair. This saves you money and hassle in the long run.

4. Find a Qualified Plumber

When searching for a plumber, look for someone who is:

• Gas Safe registered: This ensures they are qualified to work on gas appliances.
• Reputable: Ask friends, family, or neighbours for recommendations, or check online reviews.
• Offers upfront pricing: Get a clear understanding of the cost of the repair before work begins.

Contact our heating engineers in Telford

By following these steps, you can effectively handle a boiler leak and get your heating system back up and running quickly. Remember, safety is paramount, so don't hesitate to call a qualified plumber for any boiler issues.

You can contact our plumbers in Telford, Newport, Shifnal and Shrewsbury at 01952300008 or by sending us a message through our online contact form.