baxi solo 2pf 40 - pilot light not coming on

[spp1]

Thanks again Dave.

The pilot injector is definitely not blocked completely, had that off and I can blow through it.

Do these voltage readings indicate the solenoid then? Sorry for being dim, but can you explain how this is the case? My mate's arguing that he thinks the solenoid's ok because it has power across it. I say that because it has power to it, but no power past it, then it's at fault. Am I talking utter nonsense here or is that roughly correct?

Thanks, I'm so pleased I found this forum!!

 

[Soggy_weetabix]

My mate's arguing that he thinks the solenoid's ok because it has power across it. I say that because it has power to it, but no power past it, then it's at fault. Am I talking utter nonsense here or is that roughly correct?

You are correct! Change it

 

[powell30]

Is it only me thats worried that the posters are giving guidance on gas specific issues?? The last time i checked ONLY gas qualified engineers should be messing with gas valves, pilot assemblies, injectors etc.........

 

[tonybhoy]

You can check the solinoid by sticking a screwdriver through the hole and turning on the boiler ,it's just a magnet so if it energises then it will grab the screwdriver .

Guy's admitted he's skint and we've all been there and it's only the gas valve solinoid ,he's not stripping down the boiler.

 

[powell30]

And he is capable of doing the correct safety checks after??? Burner pressure, gas rate, safety devices........nope. Skint is better than dead....

 

[Agile]

I totally agree that information has been given on here which encourages a DIYer with no gas qualifications or experience to do illegal and potentially dangerous gas work.

If he cannot even realise that to partially test a gas valve solenoid he needs to measure the resistance then one would seriously wonder what problems he will get into opening gas connections with no way to check for leaks afterwards.

The whole thread should be deleted by a mad mod!

Tony

 

[spp1]

powell30 I appreciate what you're saying, but I really don't have a choice. I'm not about to attempt doing something ridiculously dangerous, and between us, my mate and I aren't complete idiots (although it may seem it!) I'm not asking advice on changing the gas components, just want to avoid all unnecessary cost if possible.

I can't get hold of a solenoid at all today, everywhere local is shut, so will order one for delivery Monday if possible. In the meantime, is there any way I can get the boiler to fire up if it has a faulty solenoid? I need to have a shower, and have to go to work on Monday morning!!

Skint is better than dead, but I'm not about to do anything crazy! And I need a wash!! Once the mrs is back to work I'll be getting it checked over properly, I really don't have a choice at the moment.

Thanks again all. Now how can I get some hot water with a (suspected) faulty solenoid??

 

[Agile]

Many would say that changing a solenoid on a gas valve should not be done by a DIYer.

After changing the solenoid how would you know that the gas valve is operating correctly and delivering the right quantity of gas?

It sounds as if you are quite prepared to try to change the whole gas valve if you cannot manage to replace the solenoid.

Tony

 

[spp1]

agile - as I mentioned earlier, I'm not intending to mess around with gas connections. Unfortunately I'm in no position to get this fixed by a professional, am new to the area and don't want to get ripped off by a cowboy. I am getting deeper and deeper in debt at the moment and can barely afford to eat, let alone fork out hundreds of pounds in the hope that I won't get stung.

What's the issue and the danger of changing a solenoid? I'm not opening up gas pipes. I would imagine that a replaced solenoid would not affect the gas quantity, flow, or pressure being delivered by the valve - but that's the reason I'm on here - to find out what is possible and what should be left well alone?

I can replace the solenoid and hope that this will solve the problem. If not then I'd want to find out more information before even thinking about the valve.

I'm using my extensive car mechanic knowledge as a base of information, and do realise how leaks could be caused, and the need for gaskets and airtight seals, in the same way they are crucial to the operation of a car engine.

If anyone has a suggestion on how else I can approach this I'm all ears, but bear in mind I can not afford to call someone out. Anyone want to volunteer to help me out for minimal cost? If not, I have no other solution.

I know this is not ideal and you guys don't recommend messing around with gas appliances - and I'm pleased you have this opinion, it shows your professionalism and conscience. I am however, responsible for my own actions, so you guys need not worry that your advice could cause harm! Lucky me, that's my problem, and unfortunately there's no way around that!

 

[spp1]

can someone explain to me exactly what the solenoid's job is please?

Thanks.

 

[tonybhoy]

The solinoid opens the port pilot port/main port of the gas valve when it's energised. It's an electromagnet which grabs a pole in the valve to open the port.

In short it's a safety device.

Tony.

PS, I appreciated your honesty.

 

[spp1]

Thank you Tony, very much appreciated.

Is there any way of bypassing the solenoid so I can at least get enough hot water for a shower until I can get it fixed?

Or, can I test it to ensure it is the solenoid that's at fault? I've stuck a screwdriver in the middle of it while the boiler's on, and I couldn't feel any magnetism at all.

Cheers

 

[tonybhoy]

Thank you Tony, very much appreciated.

Is there any way of bypassing the solenoid so I can at least get enough hot water for a shower until I can get it fixed?

Or, can I test it to ensure it is the solenoid that's at fault? I've stuck a screwdriver in the middle of it while the boiler's on, and I couldn't feel any magnetism at all.

Cheers

Well your solinoid is knacked I'm afraid. There is a way to keep the boiler going but I certainly wouldn't recommend anything or tell you how to however you could use your imagination

 

[spp1]

thanks tony, at least I can be fairly sure the solenoid is the problem, that's a relief!

I'm not surprised you wouldn't recommend how to keep the boiler going, but my imagination's letting me down!!!

Would your earlier post explaining how the electromagnet grabs the pole in the valve give me an idea on how to get some hot water? I could do with a little more advice if possible?? PM me??

If I just make a circuit that does not include the solenoid would this work? Please do stop me if I'm nowhere near the right idea!??

Any replies to this question will not be held liable for my actions!!! It's my own fault if I blow myself up!!

 

[spp1]

please someone!!! Do I need to go and buy a powerful magnet? I need some hot water, am desperate for a shower, I stink!!