Hot water only with heating on.

[Robpoole1963]

Hi I have a sime80c combi boiler and recently had the diaphragm changed in the diverter valve, having had no hot water for 4 years (electric shower). I now have hot water in the taps but only when the heating is on. I noticed that the flow switch is very stiff and doesn't appear to move. Could this be the possible cause of my hot water only working with the heating on. Thanks

 

[Doug99]

When the domestic hot water tap is opened, the water flow triggers a sensor which fires up the boiler.
It seems you have already diagnosed the problem as a 'not moving flow switch'.

 

[Robpoole1963]

Thanks for your prompt reply doug99 I intend to go down that route next to see if that cures the problem. I will keep you posted. Thanks for your help.

 

[Bodd]

How old is the boiler

 

[Robpoole1963]

Boiler is roughly 10 years old. Gas Safe engineer said apart from the water issue it's in good order. Just don't wanna keep paying out for something that may not cure the issue

 

[Ihavenojob]

Boiler is roughly 10 years old. Gas Safe engineer said apart from the water issue it's in good order. Just don't wanna keep paying out for something that may not cure the issue

Is the switch you refer to on the end of the valve to the right ? That is the water microswitch which the diaphragm acts on, the other switch, the flow switch, is operated by the pump, and if heating works, then that should be ok. Sounds like the diaphragm has been replaced incorrectly, or the divertor valve is seized. The boiler may be a lot older than 10 years old as it is a non condensing model.

 

[Bodd]

Boiler is roughly 10 years old. Gas Safe engineer said apart from the water issue it's in good order. Just don't wanna keep paying out for something that may not cure the issue

10 years old I would be investing in a new boiler. Lots of engineers will happily keep repairing..... It what they do...
Boilers are made to last 10 years.

 

[EFLImpudence]

If true, that's not very good.

What is it that deteriorates beyond repair at ten years?

Triggers broom springs to mind.

 

[Ihavenojob]

If true, that's not very good.

What is it that deteriorates beyond repair at ten years?

Triggers broom springs to mind.

Older, pre condensing boilers do last many many years, 40 years not unheard of. Modern stuff which is supposed to have lower emissions fail pretty miserably, and through their life will more than likely have had a much larger carbon footprint than a 30 year old non condensing boiler with a cast iron heat exchanger.

 

[^woody^]

Was the boiler working OK before Brexit?