Heating System,s Pressure

Heating System's Pressure

Checking your pressure gauge once a month should be a part of your household maintenance routine - doing so will ensure that you will catch any problems early which can save you both time and money.

Types of Water Pressure

Within your home there are actually several different sources and types of water pressure. For example, the cold water running from your taps comes from your water company and the pressure of this water is dependent upon their service.

On the other hand, the hot water from your taps receives its pressure from either your heating cylinder or pump. Then there is the water pressure in your boiler, and that is what this article will discuss.

Boiler Types

There are two pressure options, depending on what kind of boiler you have. If your boiler is an older conventional boiler system, then your system must rely on a water tank. This water tank maintains the water levels within the system using a ball float device.

If, however, your boiler is relatively new, and is a combination or standard boiler, then it is likely that you are operating with a Pressurized System.

Having a pressurized system means that there is no water tank and water enters the system through your cold water supply.

Checking the Pressure

If you have an older conventional boiler system, then you are going to have to locate the water tank. The best place to start looking is in the loft. If your boiler is a combination or standard one, you can head directly for it.

In both cases, you will be looking for your pressure gauge. A normal system should read between 1 and 1.5 bar, but the specific pressure for your system can be found in your manual. Should you find that your gauge is reading below the recommended level, take immediate action.

Causes of Pressure Drops

The most common cause of a pressure drop is a pressure leak, which can be the result of a bleeding radiator or a water leak directly in the system.

Repressurising the System

If your boiler is a newer model you will have to locate your filling loop - which should be easy to see - as it looks like a stop tap connected to the system with a metal hose.

The next step is to open the tap so that water can enter the filling loop. Start slowly and allow water to enter at a gradual rate so that you can monitor the rise of the pressure gauge, stopping the tap once the pressure is at the recommended level.

Troubleshooting Tips:

1. My systems metal hose is not connected to the system.

This is not an uncommon problem. You simply have to remove the cap from the capped end of the pipe and connect it to the metal hose.

2. I cannot locate my filling loop.

Try looking in the near vicinity of your boiler, as it may be concealed in a cupboard. If you still cannot locate the filling loop, consult your manual, as your boiler's filling loop may be an integral part. If this is the case refer to the manual directly for instructions on how to repressurise the system.

3. I did not stop the tap in time and now my system is over pressurised.

This is not usually a problem. Your boiler should revert itself to the recommended pressure level by releasing the excess pressure through its pressure safety valve.

By maintaining the health of your home heating system you will ensure that your home is as energy efficient as possible - which means lower heating costs and more money in your pocket.

Protect and maintain your home with reliable and professional care from British Gas' many Care and Repair packages. Learn More.

Save on a new Boiler with British Gas. Learn More.

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