DIY for landlords: How to increase boiler pressure
NRLA Partner Your Repair shares advice when it comes to spotting the signs of low boiler pressure, and what can be done to resolve the issue.
The boiler is a critical element in your properties, especially as we move into the colder months. It’s the time of the year when many people need to turn on their heating.
This guide is intended to help landlords resolve one of the most common issues without the inconvenience or cost of a call-out.
If your tenants are experiencing problems with their boiler, namely a loss of heating and hot water supply, low pressure could be the problem.
What is Low Boiler Pressure?
Cold water that flows around the pipes and radiators in our homes is heated by the boiler. To work as efficiently and consistently as possible, the pressure in the boiler system needs to remain stable. If the pressure in your boiler drops beyond its optimal level, it can’t sufficiently heat the cold water, leaving you without heating or hot water. As you might imagine, the precise pressure requirements for boiler types are different.
To quickly and easily find out exactly what your boiler pressure should be, start by checking the manufacturer’s handbook or manual. In the manual you’ll find the correct pressure information for your boiler.
How to Fix Low Pressure
Like to fix things? There are some simple steps you can take to correct the pressure yourself. If the pressure reading is below 1, this could indicate that the boiler needs to be repressurised. This is an easy job that keeps your boiler working efficiently. If you’ve already checked the pipes and around the boiler and haven’t discovered any leaks, you can top up the system by adding more water.
Follow these steps.
1. Locate the boiler manual and find the pages on low pressure
2. Switch your boiler off and wait for the system to cool down (at least an hour)
3. Check both ends of the filling loop are securely attached (your boiler may use a key instead)
4. Open both valves to let water into the system (listen for the sound)
5. Check the pressure gauge has risen to 1.5
6. Close both valves tightly, one at a time
7. Turn the boiler back on (you may need to push the reset button)
8. Undo both ends of the filling loop. Be sure to catch any excess or dripping water with a towel or bucket
9. Store the filling loop (or key) somewhere safe
Still having issues?
If you or your tenants aren’t into self-fixes - or you’re still struggling to regulate the pressure of the boiler yourself, don’t despair. You can have your boiler, heating system and general plumbing protected by YourRepair, who can send out gas-safe engineers to fix the issue.
We have specialist landlord & homeowner plans to suit every need and budget. Please click the link below and browse our fantastic care packages which are currently 2 months free for NRLA members!
