Boiler pressure isn’t a topic that often makes it to the family dinner table, yet it’s important when it comes to maintaining a safe and efficient heating system in your home. High boiler pressure, if left unaddressed, can lead to a range of problems.
They could be just irritating, like the boiler tripping all the time. But they could be more serious, such as leaks, system malfunctions and severe mechanical failures. Understanding how to identify, diagnose and fix high boiler pressure can save you time, money and inconvenience.
What is boiler pressure?
So, what exactly is boiler pressure? In simple terms, boiler pressure is a measure of the force exerted by the water inside your heating system on the pipes and containers. This pressure is typically measured in bars. For most domestic systems, the optimal pressure range is between 1 and 2 bars.
You can easily monitor this with the pressure gauge on your boiler, which traditionally has a needle pointing to different pressure levels, but today it’s more likely to be a digital readout. You might have to go through a menu or push a few buttons to get it to display, however. Being familiar with what ‘normal’ pressure looks like is your first line of defence against potential issues.
Signs of high boiler pressure
Identifying high boiler pressure isn’t too complicated once you know what to look for. The most obvious indicator is the pressure gauge showing a reading way above normal. Your boiler manual should tell you what the normal operating pressure is.
It’s normally between 1 and 2 bars, so anything above 2 is considered high.However, most boilers will run comfortably at 1 bar, so if yours is something like 1.4 or 1.5 bars, that could indicate high pressure. Note that the pressure usually goes up a little when the boiler is in use – that’s normal.
Additionally, you might notice some odd behaviour from your boiler, such as frequent leaks from the pressure relief valve, unusual noises like banging or clanking, and even shutdowns of the heating system as its safety features are triggered.
Finding the problem
To get to the root of high boiler pressure, start with a straightforward check. In other words, check the pressure gauge. Is it consistently reading above 2 bars, both when the system is operational and when it’s switched off? If so, the pressure is probably too high.
Next, do a visual inspection around the boiler and its connected pipes, searching for any visible signs of leaks or water damage. This quick investigation can provide useful clues and help you decide on the next steps.
Assuming the pressure proves to be high, the next step is to look for potential reasons. Here are some common culprits:
- Overfilled expansion vessel: The expansion vessel is designed to absorb excess water pressure. If it’s overfilled or malfunctioning, it can escalate the system pressure.
- Faulty pressure relief valve: This valve is a safety feature that opens up if pressure gets too high. A malfunction causing it to stay closed can lead to pressure build-up.
- Pump settings too high: Sometimes, the pump settings are incorrectly calibrated, contributing to higher pressure.
- Airlocks in the system: Trapped air can cause a pressure increase within the boiler system.
- Issues with the filling loop valve: If the filling loop valve isn’t closed correctly or left open, it can cause the pressure to rise.
Quick fixes and temporary solutions
While high boiler pressure can feel concerning, there are some temporary measures you can take.
Bleed a radiator
Bleeding a radiator can help release trapped air and reduce pressure. Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve slightly; you’ll hear a hissing sound as air escapes. Close the valve once water starts to come out.
Check the filling loop
Ensure the filling loop valve is fully closed. Sometimes, it can be left slightly open, leading to a gradual increase in pressure. This can’t happen with a removable filling loop tube, but if it’s a permanent one with valves, give them a twist to make sure there’s nothing coming in. No new water should be entering the system when it’s up to pressure.
When to call a professional
While some fixes are relatively simple, there are times when professional intervention is essential. Persistent high pressure, continuous leaks or system shutdowns are signs that it’s time to call in a qualified heating engineer.
Trying to fix complex boiler pressure issues yourself can lead to damage, costly replacements and safety hazards, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
Preventative measures
There are things you can do to help keep your boiler in tip top condition and catch any issues early.
- Annual servicing: Regular servicing by a qualified boiler professional can catch potential issues before they escalate. The service will include a comprehensive check of all boiler components, pressure levels, and safety features.
- Routine monitoring: Make it a habit to check your boiler pressure from time to time. Keep an eye on the gauge and watch for any sudden changes. Remember that a small rise in pressure is normal if you switch your boiler from standby to on.
- System maintenance: Regularly bleed your radiators and ensure that there are no airlocks in the system. If unsure, have a professional inspect the system yearly.
Lowering the pressure in Milton Keynes
High boiler pressure is more common than you might think, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Left unchecked, it can lead to problems that are at best inconvenient and at worst potentially hazardous.
Recognising the signs, diagnosing the issue correctly and knowing when to seek professional help are key steps in managing and maintaining a healthy boiler system.
If you’re struggling with high boiler pressure and you’re in the Milton Keynes area, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Our team of qualified engineers is here to diagnose and repair any boiler issues efficiently and safely. We offer a range of services, including routine maintenance, emergency repairs and comprehensive system checks to keep your heating reliable, efficient and safe. Contact us today and ensure your home stays warm and safe all year round.