Immersion failing

[ericmark]

In the OP's stat pocket failure, rather than a leak due to failure of the pocket, I would be suspecting moisture getting in via the open top from some source.

Yep, that was what I was thinking.

 

[Johntheo5]

Q

Yep, that was what I was thinking.

Is that likely though, with a side mounted unit??.

 

[Agile]

My way of thinking is that it is likely to be an electrolytic action.

This can often be caused by faulty wiring causing currents in earth wires.

My first check would be with a clamp on ammeter on earth connections around the plumbing.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

My first check would be with a clamp on ammeter on earth connections around the plumbing.

Or even a voltmeter, between immersion heater boss, and various other metalwork parts.

 

[Keepinghouse]

Hi all,

So i took the immersion into a plumbing supply store, they said that theres probably too much iron in the water (we have well water). They didnt offer any solution and said there wasnt much i could do.. what do you guys think?

 

[Keepinghouse]

My way of thinking is that it is likely to be an electrolytic action.

This can often be caused by faulty wiring causing currents in earth wires.

My first check would be with a clamp on ammeter on earth connections around the plumbing

I was thinking it has to be electrolytic too and something to do with poor earthing

 

[Johntheo5]

Hi all,

So i took the immersion into a plumbing supply store, they said that theres probably too much iron in the water (we have well water). They didnt offer any solution and said there wasnt much i could do.. what do you guys think?

Did you notice any corrosion or whatever in the stat pocket?

One migh think that faulty wiring + electrolytic action causing a current flow to earth might cause the RCD to trip at 35ma but maybe a far less current will do the damage, but may require a copper stat pocket.
Did the plumbers say/suggest a all incoloy immersion?.

 

[Keepinghouse]

so you can see rust on end of stat

 

[Johntheo5]

Thanks, can you see signs of corrosion on the end of the tube/pocket where its crimped, its difficult to see in photo 3. Is that tube touching any part of the (heating) element?.

 

[Keepinghouse]

it doesnt look too bad but it has to be getting in somewhere. the water is slightly acidic ph 6.1.. im really just trying to figure out whats the root cause here

 

[Johntheo5]

Not a great test but just fill that pocket very very slowly with the immersion upright and look for any signs of dampness anywhere along the tube and especially at the bottom.

 

[polesapart]

the water is acidic ph 6.1.. im really just trying to figure out whats the root cause here

Errr...

From google-fu/AI (sorry!)

Mains water in England is typically neutral to slightly alkaline, generally ranging
between 6.5 and 9.5 to comply with regulations.

Key details regarding pH levels:

• Regulations: The Drinking Water Inspectorate sets the acceptable range at 6.5–9.5 to ensure it is not too acidic (which corrodes pipes) or too alkaline.