Why is my boiler pressure low?

Here are several reasons why the pressure in your boiler is too low.


  1. Overtime, it is quite normal for air to get into the system. You can tell if this has happened because you can feel cold spots on your radiators. Try bleeding the radiators, then topping up the pressure on the boiler.
  2. There’s a leak somewhere in the central heating system. Check pipes, radiators and radiator valves for signs of a leak, such as rust, corrosion or staining. You may not notice any water, because it may evaporate due to the heat of the pipework before it has the chance to drip. 
  3. The expansion vessel inside your boiler may need recharging or replacing. This is a job for a qualified, Gas Safe registered heating engineer.
  4. There could be debris inside the pressure relief valve. This is the safety valve that usually discharges water if the pressure in the system gets too high. If it is dripping with water and the pressure gauge is too low, your Gas Safe registered engineer will need to clean out or replace the safety valve. 

How to top up the pressure on my boiler

It is quite simple to top up the water pressure in your boiler. You should be able to do it yourself without having to call a heating engineer.

Related FAQs

Should I turn off my boiler in the summer?

Generally, it is best to keep your boiler switched on even during the summer months, however this can depend on your home and your circumstances.

Is a condensing boiler a combi boiler? 

Is a condensing boiler the same as a combi boiler? The short answer is yes. However, there are 3 types of condensing boilers.

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

If your boiler breaks down due to sludge in the system, the repair work is not covered under your warranty and can lead to expensive repair bills as a result.

Why should I have a filter fitted?

Many boiler breakdowns occur due to sludge in the heating system. A magnetic filter is an effective way of preventing this sludge from accumulating, and may prevent costly breakdowns at a later stage.

How often should I have my boiler serviced?

We advise you have your boiler serviced every year in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and to keep your warranty valid.

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