Leak from Mixer Valve on Range Flowmax water tank

[Neutreus]

Morning all,

I have just returned from holidays to find a leak coming from our hot water tank in the airing cupboard. I had a plumber out yesterday and he replaced an O ring where the leak appeared to be coming from but yesterday evening the leak stared up again and I can see it's coming from the mixer valve (thermostatic valve?).

Sadly, I am sceptical about calling the guy from yesterday because he seemed to suggest that I might get a problem from the mixer valve and he told me you can't get this valve any more as it's obselete and would potentially need to replace the whole tank (at about £2000!). A coincidence that it's gone wrong now? Maybe I'm just synical but I'm also just being cautious.

The tank is a Range Flowmax and whilst the sticker showing information is ripped, I think the product reference number is either 4661 or 4651.

I wondered if anyone can give me some advice as to
A) What the problem may be and how I can resolve it?
B) If I need to replace the mixer valve, where is it best to obtain it from?

Any help would be very much appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[45yearsagasman]

If its the blending valve you are referring to then it can be replaced. Post a pic if you can. Contact Range for them to provide a part and fitting is simple if you follow the basics.

 

[Neutreus]

Hopefully this works .........

Untitled

• Neutreus
• 20 Oct 2011
• 1

Untitled

• Neutreus
• 20 Oct 2011
• 1

So this part should be readily available then? Is there anywhere you could recommend getting it from or is direct from Range the best bet?

 

[45yearsagasman]

I can only suggest you contact Range for a part number and then try to source from your local parts centre. I think they are made by Oventrop.
Not cheap though.
Is it leaking from under the brass cover?

 

[Neutreus]

Yep. Exactly where it's coming from ..........

 

[Neutreus]

Is it going to be a definite case of having to replace it or is there some kind of seal that could be the issue?

(I've contacted Range and can get the part for £102 delivered).

 

[45yearsagasman]

Replace rather than repair. I've not heard of a repair kit. Cannot Range advise on that?

 

[Neutreus]

No I didn't ask. To be honest, for the cost involved, I would sooner replace the whole valve otherwise sods law says something else will go faulty on it in a months time.

Thanks for your help, it's very much appreciated.