Format C Sime Boiler . . & an underground leak

[jufa]

hello,

Hello, I just stumbled across this forum . . I really hope someone can help me. I recently bought a house which has a new Format C, Sime combi-boiler. About a fortnight ago I had to start re-pressurising it each time I switched on the CH, other wise it de-pressurised itself, although it stays pressurised when the CH is on and still provides HW. I had B Gas in who said that it is most likely due to a leak in the pipes somewhere underneath my newly installed floorboards! The problem is that the leak is not obvious so I have no way of knowing exactly where it is . . Does anyone have any ideas as to how I can find it without having to rip up all the floorboards?

 

[corgiman]

sorry mate but No I dont its going to have to be a bit of intrusive investigation I am afaird, but wait a minute one of the others is bound to say that he has a thingajig especially for this

 

[kevplumb]

is the pipe that goes outside wet at all?

 

[ChrisR]

CHeck all your radiator valves - this means taking the plastic caps off, look for crusty bits and stains, and check any carpets underneath for stains.

 

[jufa]

Thanks for the replies so far . . All the rad valves have recently been fitted so there are no leaks there . . "kevplumb" not quite sure what you mean by the pipe that goes out .. If you mean the overflow .. no it's dry as a bone. B gas man actually suggested going to a water diviner! guess he could tell I am reluctant to rip up my very expensive floor. Does anyone know if there is any sort of gizmo that can detect water?

 

[kevplumb]

apart from a cack handed apprentice with a pipe cutter you have me at a loss sorry

 

[corgiman]

told you

 

[kevplumb]

how much space is under your floor?

 

[jufa]

Re the space under the floor . . Its the downsatirs of the house (Victorian Terrace) so just the foundations . . sounds like I may have to take them up . .Is it worth waiting a while?

 

[kevplumb]

is there enough space to crawl in ?

 

[jufa]

is there enough space to crawl in ?

That's a thought, Yes i think there would be and perhaps it could be done via the understairs cupboard which could minimise the disruption. Top idea!

 

[DP]

Why dont you start with isolating the boiler from the rads and see if there is a pressure drop. Then open the isolating valves and again note if pressure drops.. This will tell you if the leak is in the boiler or beyond.