Problem with draincock - experience required

[Bon]

Hello to you all.

Whoever fitted our CH draincock did in such a way that it is completely inaccessible . It's at the rear of the boiler and the only way to get to it is from underneath and even then you can only get your hand to around 6 - 7" away from it due to the bottom of the boiler therefore you can't use a 3-way key as per the norm.

My question therefore is does anyone have any suggestions as to what else I could use to open/close it? My previous attempts at opening it have resulted in the edges beginning to round off and a small drip of water every now and then. I therefore want to tighten it up again but don't want to damage it so need to get it right first time.

All suggestions (apart from take the boiler off the wall and then get to it) will be gratefully received!

 

[JohnD]

provided your boiler is not at the lowest point, fit a new draincock in a convenient position.

You can replace the lockshield valve on one or more of your downstairs rads with one of these. Best positioned over a hard floor that will withstand drips and splashes, near to an outside door that you can run a hose through.

If any of your rads are fed by loops coming down from the ceiling, each such rad needs one.

Until then, you can drain off from any radiator - close the valves at both ends, unfasten it and drain it, put a 3/4" BSP connector (washing machine hose or garden hose) on one valve and open that valve.

For tightening the old one, a Brake Spanner sold in car accessory shops will fit it. they have a square (not hexagonal) opening. Or you could try a miniature socket set. they are available with 1/4" ratchet drives.

 

[chrishutt]

If your boiler is at a low point in the system you have the problem of draining the system in the first place to fit a new drain point. It might help if you post a pic and then we might be able to suggest the best way of draining it.