Pin hole leaks from hot water tank?

[chris765]

Hi there,

We have just swapped over a broken immersion element for a new one. We have put it back together and turned on the water and we have 3 tiny tiny leaks by the emersion. The emersion seal itself is water tight. The leaks are litterally smaller than a pin prick, not even visible but the tiniest bubbles of water are dripping out!

Is there anything we can seal this with, we thought we were doing so well!!

Thanks in advance!

 

[bengasman]

As you can not be sure that the leak is caused by physical damage alone, but could be combined result of that and corrosion, I wouldn't like to take the risk of repairing it.

 

[seco services]

you can do temp fix but long term is to change the cylinder

 

[JohnD]

you can use Fernox LSX while you save up for a new cylinder. Drain it to prevent water pressure forcing it off.

You do not say where the leaks are coming from. I am guessing that you twisted the boss where it is brazed onto the cylinder. Cylinders are made of very thin copper and are easily damaged.

edited: too slow

 

[chris765]

You do not say where the leaks are coming from. I am guessing that you twisted the boss where it is brazed onto the cylinder. Cylinders are made of very thin copper and are easily damaged.

thanks guys! Yes spot on john, where it's twisted slighlty by the looks of it. It looks like it's leaked before as there's tiny stains where the holes are.

Thanks for your help, will try some of that stuff

 

[clf-gas]

Would go along with JohnD, though I would heat the water in cylinder.

You will find that the pinhole leak stops at this point, then you can smear LSX all round the boss. The warmth in the cylinder will cure quicker.

 

[fatplumber]

Sorry chap but it is new cylinder time. UK water is very aggressive nowadays and sacrificial anodes do not last as long as all that. Your cylinder is perished and will soon be a major problem.