If you suspect your boiler is leaking gas, immediately open all windows and doors and extinguish any naked flames – including cigarettes – then call the Gas Emergency Services free on 0800 111 999. A boiler gas leak is very dangerous, especially as fumes from gases like carbon monoxide can be odourless.
Can I still use my boiler if its leaking?
Can I use my boiler if it’s leaking? If you spot a leak or find that the boiler pressure has dropped dramatically in a short space of time (suggesting a leak) then don’t use your boiler. Instead, switch off the water supply and the central heating and contact a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Is a boiler leak serious?
A boiler leak should be considered a serious problem, which could be potentially dangerous if not rectified quickly. The leak could cause the electric components within the boiler to short circuit. You may find the leak trips the electricity as a safety precaution.
How do I find a leak in my boiler system?
Place a sheet of colored paper under the boiler – if any drops appear on the paper, it should make it very easy to find the leak in your central heating system. Follow the wet spots up along the central heating system and see if you can spot where the water is coming from.
Why is water leaking from boiler?
Most boiler leaks come down to pressure issues, loose joints, or cracks. If you suspect a different problem, there are other things you can check. Remember that some issues are a simple fix, but your safest bet is to call in a professional right away.
Can a leaking boiler explode?
Anything that causes excess pressure on your water heating system, such as a poor anode rod, or a lot of sediment buildup, can all cause your water heater to explode. A gas leak can also cause your water heater to explode because it is a tremendous fire risk.
Why is my boiler dripping water from the bottom?
Small leaks of water could mean you need to top up your boiler pressure. The pressure relief valve could be releasing extra pressure. The heat exchanger – the important part of your boiler where cold water is warmed up with hot gas – could be damaged.
What does a leaking boiler smell like?
The gas itself is odourless, but when it escapes through an appliance like a boiler, then it can be detected by your nose. This will often come in the form of an unpleasant rotten eggs smell. You might also notice black stains around the area the boiler is situated in, which could be an indicator there is a leak.
