Pilot Light Going Out

[Invisibabe]

Hi guys,

I have an old gas boiler (about 35 years old) and I appear to be having some issues with the pilot light going out on me.

I've re-lit it, and sat and looked at it for 5 minutes and it's stayed on quite happily. However, as soon as I turn the heating controls to "on" the pilot light will go out in within a minute.

I've re-tested this a few times and it's the same story on each occasion.

There does appear to be a vague burnt smell from coming from somewhere within the cupboard that houses the boiler and the wires, it may be connected to the problem, I'm not sure.

The pump on the boiler was fitted around 2 years ago, as was the heating controls so I'd hope that it's not either of these that has gone.

Does anyone have any ideas as to what the cause of the problem might be?

 

[mysteryman]

Make and model of boiler? Pump running? Water in header tank?

 

[fazedup71]

it could just need a service

 

[macfudd]

From what you`ve written describing the fault,coupled with the smell,I would say it is in dire need of a service.
Call in a Gas Safe Registered Engineer and get a battery operated Carbon Monoxide detector and fit it at about head height just outside the cupboard.

 

[Invisibabe]

"Ideal Standard E Type RS balanced Flue" Would that be the make and model? It's pretty much the only thing marked there that would look right.

I am presuming there's plenty of water in the header tank, I can't see any possible reason why it would have emptied.

I have no idea if the pump is running or not, how would I test that?

The boiler was serviced around 11 months ago and other than the obvious age the engineer had no issues with it.

I've got a carbon monoxide alarm nearby, I'll move it a bit closer just to be on the safe side!

 

[kevplumb]

I have an old gas boiler (about 35 years old)

as above

you will be lucky to get spares if needed

35 years they don't make em like that anymore

$ says big lump of ci

 

[mysteryman]

You are not going to sort this out yourself, from what you've already posted. Consumable parts are available. Call your serviceman.

 

[Invisibabe]

I'll get on the phone in the morning and see if I can get someone out ASAP.

Thanks for your help guys, I appreciate the advice