Confused about combi boilers and hot water only

[imnotme]

Hi Guys,

I am a new home owner and am trying to turn my hand to some things around the house, as well as trying to get my head around how my central heating works.

I had a look at the F.A.Q but couldn't find the answer there.

I have a a combi bolier, a Keston C36 (I understand these have a poor reputation) I have switched it on to "Summer" mode which means it should only be hot water only.

However when I run a bath one of the radiators in the living room heats up slightly, not that hot. This radiator has no temperature control just some type of flow valve.

When I turned it off I got an error from the boiler that the "Automatic Flow Control" test had failed.

Is it normal for a radiator to heat up, when in HW only mode?

George

 

[Youllneverguess]

Sounds like the diverter valve on the boiler is knackered.

Is there a by-pass on the system somewhere under the boiler?

 

[imnotme]

I am not sure, I can check the manual and see if it points me to it.

 

[imnotme]

The manual doesn't mention it, and I had a look and it there is a pipe with taps which runs between two pipes.

To be honest, I think it's better to be on the safe side and call in a engineer.

Strange how it's only when I run a bath the radiator heats up, showers and everything else are fine.

George

 

[Youllneverguess]

Probably more down to the length of time the tap is running.

 

[imnotme]

I thought so, I was hoping it was a feature that the boiler used to dissipate heat or something (what do I know ), but I think sadly something has gone wrong.

Thanks for your help anyway.

 

[Youllneverguess]

Not often I would say this - in fact I am having to bite my tongue whilst I type. Time to take out a BG contract.

Now I have to go and wash my mouth out. There I said it - at least I know they will be wasting a lot of time and money fixing that heap over the years.

Jesus I feel dirty!!!

 

[imnotme]

I am on the homeserve site just now. Arranging this.

 

[Boilerman2]

Good Luck with THAT!!!

 

[imnotme]

I have heard a few bad things about them, or is my boiler so crap they won't insure it?

 

[muggles]

That's a distinct possibility, I've heard there are a few they won't take on...