Overflow from boiler header tank running

[safeinthisskylife]

Hi there,

I've just moved into a new flat and found that the overflow from the boiler header tank runs. A plumber said that there is either a faulty washer or a problem with the ball valve and advised to turn off the tap that allows this flow to occur (temporarily).

How urgently does this need to be remedied? Access to the header tank is restricted incredibly and I don't know how a plumber is going to replace these parts.

In the meantime, what will happen if the valve/tap is switched off for a while?

Thanks,

Safe.

 

[kevplumb]

as long as you dont let the tank run dry should be ok

 

[safeinthisskylife]

Thanks kevplumb

i'm not sure how i prevent the tank from running dry though?

 

[kevplumb]

turn the tap on every couple of days for a few mins

 

[safeinthisskylife]

thanks kevplumb

I am still slightly confused, though: wouldn't having the
tap on, rather than off, make the tank run dry?

When it is on, in fact, the overflow leaks, so i could see that it could run dry.

Sorry for being a bit slow.

 

[kevplumb]

if the tap is on the water is getting in to the tank hence the overflow
if the tap is turned off it will stop the overflow
the water may evaporate if the heating is on
hence top it up occasionaly

 

[safeinthisskylife]

Thank you- it makes sense now.