Boiler Overflow Pipe Constantly Leaking

BirdyMC

Hi,

I have a Systemate SP hot water only thermal store. Model FE178A.

I also have very limited knowledge about boilers!

The overflow pipe has been constantly leaking for about 2 weeks. The hot water and heating don't seem to be affected but my management company are complaining about the constant dripping as you would expect.

I have had a couple of plumbers out. It was initially suggested it was the ball valve and/or the pressure release valve. These have both been replaced at a cost of £200. The problem is still evident.

It is now believed the issue is a crack in the coil in the water cylinder. This is leading to the water level rising and then overflowing. I have been told this means the system will need to be replaced.

The company Gledhill Water Stores Ltd have gone into liquidation 2 years ago, creating a few more problems. I can't even find the Systemate SP on the Internet anywhere only the Boilermate and Systemate 2000 & III.

Obviously I am loathe to replace a boiler that works fine except for the leak.

I would greatly appreciate any help on this matter as it is now driving me crazy!

Thanks

Birdy

muckybutt

Try Fernox system leak sealer first see if that does the trick http://www.screwfix.com/prods/65161/Plumbing/Central-Heating-Treatment/Fernox-Heating-Leak-Sealer-Superconcentrate-290ml

missile

As a temporary fix, you might be able to fix a length of hose of the overflow and lead it to a drain.

gas4you

muckybutt wrote: »

Try Fernox system leak sealer first see if that does the trick http://www.screwfix.com/prods/65161/Plumbing/Central-Heating-Treatment/Fernox-Heating-Leak-Sealer-Superconcentrate-290ml

As it's a thermal store you don't want any chemicals possibly getting into the domestic side of the water.

Gledhill have split into two companies, but still exist. Visit http://www.gledhill.net/ for more info

ziggyman99

gas4you wrote: »

As it's a thermal store you don't want any chemicals possibly getting into the domestic side of the water.

Gledhill have split into two companies, but still exist. Visit http://www.gledhill.net/ for more info

As it's a thermal store they won't...
Gledhill do still exist though if the coil has gone it's a new thermal store you'll need.

BirdyMC

The plumber did suggest Fernox leak sealer but when he spoke to a contact they suggested it wouldn't work.

I have been on the website but was informed when speaking to them the half of the business I needed had gone into liquidation?? I can't even find my boiler type on their website.

Do you guys agree it's likely to be the coil? I'm at a loss to think what else it can be.

What is the benefit of a thermal store if a part like the coil going means a complete replacement? Will I be able to get a direct replacement and if so does anyone have an idea on cost?

It seems an expensive solution to something dripping!

Thanks everyone for the help. Sorry for all the questions!

ziggyman99

It does sound very likely if the obvious have been checked already.A coil going in any hot water cylinder would result in a new one, it's not unique to thermal stores. The benefits of a thermal store are mains pressure hot water without going unvented, so it can be installed by a plumber who doesn't have an unvented qualification.

I don't know about a direct replacement but you'll certainly get something that will go in easy. You may want to consider going for an unvented cylinder.

Small drips can often be expensive to repair......

BirdyMC

Thanks Ziggyman. I don't really know much about the unvented bit if I'm honest.

I'm looking to move in the next year or so, so don't want to spend loads if I can help it!

When you say something going in easy and an unvented option, do you know what sort of model and cost?

To be honest I'm just trying to find a suitable option, that will solve the problem and wont cost crazy money!

ziggyman99

BirdyMC wrote: »

Thanks Ziggyman. I don't really know much about the unvented bit if I'm honest.

I'm looking to move in the next year or so, so don't want to spend loads if I can help it!

When you say something going in easy and an unvented option, do you know what sort of model and cost?

To be honest I'm just trying to find a suitable option, that will solve the problem and wont cost crazy money!

There are far too many variables to quote you on a forum.
Such as.......
Where your located.
The size of cylinder you need.
Where it's being fitted.
Etc, etc.
I do know that it won't be cheap. I think your thermal store might be £1000 - 1300. an unvented option could cost you even more (although there are cheaper makes). Then there's fitting and other costs.