expansion tank not filling

[matty04]

The hot water expansion tank in our loft isn't filling up? the valve is open constantly and maintaining a level of approx 4 inches and when lifting the ballcock out the water empties out of the tank completley. Is it just a prob with the ballcock? Any help gratefully received, Cheers

 

[doitall]

Sounds like you have a big leak

Exactly what tank are we talking about. The storage tank for the cylinder, or the header tank for the heating

 

[matty04]

Hi, not 100% sure sorry? theres a large tank and a smaller one next to it, this is the one that has the problem. Have no sign of leak yet

 

[doitall]

The smaller header tank is for the heating and should only have 4-6" of water in it.

But you say the water is running out all the time and empties the tank if you stop the ballcock filling.

Thats a big leak and you need to find it quick, if nothing is visible eg overflow pipe, pressure relief pipe sticking through the wall from the boiler etc, then it must be under the floor boards on the ground floor, and you should be able to hear it running.

Whats the height of the water level in relation to the larger tank.

 

[HarrogateGas]

The smaller header tank is for the heating and should only have 4-6" of water in it.

But you say the water is running out all the time and empties the tank if you stop the ballcock filling.

Thats a big leak and you need to find it quick, if nothing is visible eg overflow pipe, pressure relief pipe sticking through the wall from the boiler etc, then it must be under the floor boards on the ground floor, and you should be able to hear it running.

Whats the height of the water level in relation to the larger tank.

If its the central heating header tank the boiler wont have a pressure relief pipe............just being picky!

 

[matty04]

Thanks for your help, there is a leak under the floorboards. Doesnt seem too bad but have turned off the water and will get it sorted. Cheers,

Matt

 

[doitall]

If its the central heating header tank the boiler wont have a pressure relief pipe............just being picky!

That depends on the installation and the boiler. Certainly the Manufactures of the boilers we install insist on a safety valve being fitted.

And thanks for reminding me.

During the next few months I will be installing a couple of Broags, and will be in the yard tomorrow welding the vertical header. There's no PRV shown on the drawing, and will add a socket for one.

 

[kevplumb]

wots a vertical header john

 

[doitall]

That thing I posted a pic off the other day Kev.

 

[supersparky]

yeh, i think dr who has one of them in his moter aswell