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Central heating question

Morning Guys,

I have a quick question about my central heating system.

In our loft we have 2 tanks and what looks like an hot water tank (covered in some foam insulation)

Over the last few nights ive noticed a noise coming from the loft and have been to investigate. What i found last night was one of the tanks full of hot water and steaming and some water scattered around on the floor (the tank doesn't have a lid on it)

My question is should this be happening? i cant seem to work out whether those tanks are used when something is wrong or are normally used, also what should I use to cover the tank (around the pipe obviously)

Thanks,

Comments

  • ormus
    ormus Posts: 42,714 Forumite
    the small tank is the CH expansion tank. the pipe that bends over the top lets boiling water escape into the tank where it cools and re enters the system.
    its the safety device. never block that pipe. or install a valve into it.

    you can cover the tank with a lid if required. do not extend the pipe lower than the hole in the lid.
    Get some gorm.
  • pagelad
    pagelad Posts: 32 Forumite
    edited 7 April 2010 at 11:37AM
    If the lid isn't above where the pipe is though wont I still get water splashing everywhere?

    Im a bit concerned that the steam coming off it will damage the roof
  • gas4you
    gas4you Posts: 2,602 Forumite
    The water in this tank shouldn't be so hot that it steams. This indicates a fault with your heating system and/or boiler.

    Have you found the radiators have been extra hot to touch lately?

    What make/model of boiler and type of system do you have?
  • alanobrien
    alanobrien Posts: 3,309 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Combo Breaker Mortgage-free Glee!
    Do you have an indirect hot water tank ?
    If so there is a good chance the hw coil inside the tank is perforated and water from the hot water circuit is getting into the tank causing the overflow into the loft.
  • pagelad
    pagelad Posts: 32 Forumite
    edited 8 April 2010 at 10:23AM
    Ill have a look and let you know tonight, thanks

    How will i be able to tell if its indirect?
  • ormus
    ormus Posts: 42,714 Forumite
    rsactz.jpg
    Get some gorm.
  • DVardysShadow
    DVardysShadow Posts: 18,949 Forumite
    Sounds like the system may be 'pumping over'. This happens with rads shut off on certain systems, which allows sufficient head in the expansion pipe for water to flow into the expansion tank. Try googling on 'pumping over'?
    Hi, we’ve had to remove your signature. If you’re not sure why please read the forum rules or email the forum team if you’re still unsure - MSE ForumTeam
  • WhiteHorse
    WhiteHorse Posts: 2,492 Forumite
    Try putting your question on DIYnot.com forum. Loads of professionals post on there.
    "Never underestimate the mindless force of a government bureaucracy
    seeking to expand its power, dominion and budget"
    Jay Stanley, American Civil Liberties Union.
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