2. How to tell if my boiler is leaking
Boilers

Why is my boiler leaking?

If you’ve noticed your standard or combi boiler leaking, the first steps to take are to examine the boiler itself, and all surrounding pipework.

 

If you’re asking ‘why is my boiler leaking?’ You should check for the following:

 

  • High boiler pressure
  • An error code on your boiler
  • Damp surfaces on or around the boiler
  • Dripping beneath it
  • Corrosion on the pipes

 

If you’ve taken a good look, and any of these issues are present, then there are steps you can take to help fix a leaking boiler, see our How-to Guides.

 

How old is it?

 

Boilers should last around 10 – 15 years. They need to be serviced every year, and you should look after it properly. Boilers lose efficiency over time. A 15-year-old boiler will be less efficient than a brand new one. This might mean your energy bills will be higher with an older boiler.

 

There are a few signs to watch out for that your boiler might need replacing. Here are some common ones:

 

  • Your boiler frequently breaks down or needs repairs
  • It takes a long time for radiators to warm up
  • Low or high hot water pressure
  • Hot water isn’t hot enough
  • The boiler makes strange noises
  • It keeps losing pressure
  • Your heating bills are unexpectedly higher

 

If any of these are happening in your household, it could be a sign that your boiler's getting on a bit and might need replacing soon.

Related FAQs

Should I turn off my boiler in the summer?

Instead of turning off your boiler completely during the summer, when you likely have less need for heating, you can use Holiday Mode to ensure it works at a low level and prevent parts from seizing up later on in the year when you have greater need. You can also set your boiler to only heat your water and not your radiators.

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Is a condensing boiler a combi boiler? 

Most modern combi boilers are condensing models. This means the heat and gases that escape through the flue pipe are captured and reused for efficiency.

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Why is my external condensate pipe freezing?

Condensate pipes can freeze due to extremely low temperatures or ice building up on the pipe, which will need clearing in order to unction effectively. Insulating your pipe can prevent this from happening.

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Why should I get the water in my central heating system cleaned?

It’s important to have the water in your central heating system cleaned regularly to prevent sludge buildup, which can lead to blocked pipes and ultimately, cause breakdowns. Repairs needed as a result of sludge are not covered by Baxi warranties.  

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