Immersion Leak

[angelpie]

Hi
I have a small leak coming from between the element and tank on my immersion heater. I have used it occasionally and it works fine but do not want to use it in case the tank splits completely (I have heard a few horror stories of this happening!)
I am replacing my bathroom and would like to replace the tank/element at the same time if it needs doing. I have spoken to a few plumbers each saying different things but all seem reluctant to to replace. One plumber said I would not be able to get a new tank, another said I could recondition the tank and another suggested some filler to stop the leak. The property is approximately 30 years old, I am not sure how old the tank/element is but it could very well be as old as the property. I am not sure what to do?
Should I insist on a replacement tank and element or try the filler? Roughly how much would a new system cost? Any help or suggestions would be welcome.

 

[seco services]

if its just leaking between the element and tank sounds like it just needs a new fibre washer. they only cost pence.

 

[angelpie]

Thank you for your reply

 

[Softus]

It isn't leaking at the joint though, is it.

Cylinders don't just start leaking at the element joint, but they frequently start leaking at a pinhole in the cylinder wall near where the element boss is brazed on.

What reason do people give for not being able to replace the cylinder?

 

[spacethegas]

What reason do people give for not being able to replace the cylinder?

elson ?

 

[Softus]

What reason do people give for not being able to replace the cylinder?

<a brand of cylinder>

Yes, I had thought of that, but rather than put words in angelpie's mouth I was hoping that he/she would tell us.

 

[angelpie]

The reason given was that it is an old system and therefore difficult to get the correct size! I think the plumber just didn't want to do the work to be honest.

Will it be glaringly obvious where the leak is coming from, how can i tell? It seems to be from the bottom of the element, is the pinhole situated there?
Thanks for your help guys

 

[Softus]

The reason given was that it is an old system and therefore difficult to get the correct size! I think the plumber just didn't want to do the work to be honest.

If it's 30 years young then I would expect the pipes and fittings to be metric; if so then no difficulties there.

If room in the cupboard is tight then you might have to have a narrower cylinder, or have a custom size made, but that's all do-able, so no difficulties there.

If you post a photo of the cylinder and its surrounding pipework then it might reveal a factor that you haven't noticed.

Will it be glaringly obvious where the leak is coming from, how can i tell? It seems to be from the bottom of the element, is the pinhole situated there?

If you remove the insulation from the area, and wipe it clean/dry, then it should become obvious where the water is emerging.

However - be careful - if the cylinder is corroded and the walls thin, then occasionally this will cause a leak to become a gush. For this reason it's best done with the cold feed to the cylinder being shut first, and done on a day where a cylinder can be obtained and fitted, so that you're not without hot water for very long.

 

[Agile]

The reason given was that it is an old system and therefore difficult to get the correct size! I think the plumber just didn't want to do the work to be honest.Thanks for your help guys

I would not be surprised if he got your vibes that you only wanted to pay for a bodged cheap job.

Any normal person would bite the bullet and go for a new well insulated cylinder that would save its cost from the increased efficiency in a few years.

A cylinder is usually about £200 and installation about £150-£300 depending how difficult the job is and how much the firm charges.

Tony

 

[angelpie]

Actually Tony, I do not want to go for the cheap bodge job which is why I am posting! As my first email I was trying to gauge whether the plumbers are trying to get out of the job as I would like to replace it.

I will look at where it is leaking tonight and hopefully post some pictures. Thanks again for your replies

 

[Agile]

If you really wanted to replace it then its irrelevant where it is leaking from!

You are giving the impression that in spite of your words you only want a bodge!

Just post a .... picture and we will advise you what can be done.

Tony

 

[Softus]

I would not be surprised if he got your vibes that you only wanted to pay for a bodged cheap job.

Perhaps you could explain where you got those vibes from, and what evidence you have that the OP wants a "bodged cheap job", ..................

 

[angelpie]

Tony, I think you have some issues! I am shocked at how asking civilised questions upsets you so much. I feel for you!

 

[angelpie]

Thank you Softus

 

[Agile]

Tony, I think you have some issues! I am shocked at how asking civilised questions upsets you so much. I feel for you!

I have given the information you asked for and particularly the possible costs. No one else has done this.

I also offered to advise you on any replacement issues if you posted a picture of the whole cylinder.

I am sorry that you are not appreciative of this!

Tony