advice on leaking heating pipe

[newdiy]

Hello, I notice my central heating copper pipe has accumulated some blue-ish thing around the soldered joint (L-shape joint). Does it mean leaking? if it is, what should I do to repair it? Many thanks.

 

[chip]

Is it a newly soldered pipe? If so it's normal for discolouration afterwards.

 

[CH4]

It could be caused by a leak or by a flux residue that wasn't cleaned off after the elbow was soldered. Thoroughly clean the pipe and fitting. If the corrosion reappears, then you know you have a leak.

 

[oilman]

Cleaning is helped by using hot water, and letting it dissolve the soluble bits, then steel wool to get the rest off.

 

[newdiy]

Thank you so much for all your swift response.

The soldered pipe is believe to have over 2 years, and it is underneath floorboards which I have lift for wiring for downlighters.

However I have had another look, I can see the pipe is touching the floorboard. so the friction may have been the cause apart from discolouration.

Do you think if i can put back the floorboard after cleaning, or should I leave it for a few days while monitoring if any corrosion will occur? what is the best things I can do to minimise the possibility of leaking soldered elbow?

 

[breezer]

it may be it has always been like that, and only now that you noticed it. is the joint wet?

to be sure i would look / feel the joint for a few days if no change all is well

 

[newdiy]

The joint is not wet. but there is a slight dampness visible along the joint and also has some dry white discharges surround the joint.

With regards to cleaning as suggested, what type of solutions can I apply to clean the joint, Or just hot water will be adequate?