There is nothing worse than waking up a winter’s day to a cold home with no heating or hot water. Boilers can go on the blink frequently, especially when they are not serviced annually. But, sometimes a fault with your boiler can be something you can fix yourself.
A very common boiler issue is a drop in boiler pressure. Boiler pressure loss is pretty common and is usually normal. A drop in pressure can happen over time as water evaporates from the system or can sometimes be lost through small leaks. However, if you experience frequent pressure loss, this could be the result of a larger problem for example; improper installation, faulty pressure relief valve or leaks.
If you’re reading this article because you’re experiencing an issue with a drop in boiler pressure, we are here to explain what you can do at home to help fix the problem quickly, without having to seek professional help!
Can I repressurise a boiler myself?
In a nutshell, yes you can repressurise a boiler yourself. It is crucial to remember that it is always advisable to call a professional if you are unsure of your skills or feel uneasy handling your boiler. But if you are comfortable with reaching the correct valves, then topping up your boiler pressure at home can be a pretty straightforward task.
How do you put the pressure up on your boiler?
To put pressure up on your boiler, you will need to follow these steps:
Identify the pressure gauge:
Before you can put pressure up on your boiler, you need to know where the pressure gauge is. It is usually located on the front of the boiler and looks like a small circular dial.
Check the current pressure:
Look at the pressure gauge to see what the current pressure reading is. The ideal pressure for most boilers is between 1 and 1.5 bar.
Top up the water:
If the pressure reading is below the ideal range, you will need to top up the water. To do this, you will need to locate the filling loop. This is a flexible hose that connects the cold water main to the boiler, it usually has two black turning keys (vavles) on it.
Open the filling loop valves:
There will be two valves on the filling loop, one at each end. Open both valves, and you should hear water start to flow.
Watch the pressure gauge:
As the water flows into the boiler, keep an eye on the pressure gauge. Once it reaches the ideal range, turn off the valves and make sure that the pressure doesn’t continue to rise.
How do I put pressure back into my combi boiler?
Putting pressure back into a combi boiler is the same as repressurising a standard boiler and tank. You can follow the steps mentioned above to increase the pressure in your combi boiler.
Repressurising a boiler is a simple task that can be done by most homeowners. However, it is important to remember that if you feel uncomfortable or unsure, it is best to contact a professional. If you do encounter any problems, or the above guide does not help your boiler, call Chris at Flow Heating & Plumbing. We are a team of experts with years of experience in the industry and can help with everything from boiler installations to repairs and maintenance.
