Boiler Overheating

Overheating in a boiler is always a serious issue, regardless of the cause. Modern boilers are able to detect when the temperature rises too high, which triggers a safety feature that turns the boiler off. Older boilers, on the other hand, don’t offer the same level of comfort. Overheated boilers can explode if not repaired quickly.

If you’re worried about overheating in your boiler, keep reading to learn more about the causes and the ways to fix it. 

Causes of overheating: 

  • Blockage in the system : If your boiler is making strange noises, it may be because there are blockages in your system. They can be either physical blockages or air blockages. Additionally, if you find that your boiler isn’t heating up properly, you may have a system issue that needs an inspection. 
  • Low water levels: 

Low water levels can be caused by boiler leaks. Check the pressure gauge if it’s below 1. If it’s lower than 1, it’s time to check the pressure again. In most cases, you’ll need to have your boiler re-pressurized by an expert.

Low water levels can also be caused by the boiler turning off on its own. This could be due to closed valves, a broken pump or air in your boiler system. Either way, you need to get your boiler checked out as soon as you can.

  • Broken thermostat 

The thermostat is the unit that controls the temperature of the water in your boiler. If your thermostat fails, the water temperature will be too high and you will not be able to use your boiler. If this happens to you, you should not use your boiler and contact a heating engineer. 

  • Blocked pipes 

Pipe blockages are just as common as other types of heating system blockages. Blockage can be caused by air obstruction or physical obstructions such as rust/sludge, coolant leak, low coolant level, etc. When pipes are blocked, the whole system can’t work properly, and this can lead to overheating. 

  • Faulty pump

The main job of a water pump in your heating system is to pump water around the entire system. When the pump fails, the hot water stays in the boiler, causing the boiler to overheat. In most cases, when a pump fails, there’s no fixing it, so you’ll need a new one.

  • Built-up of limescale

Limescale build up is another major problem. Limescale builds up in the heat exchanger and restricts the flow of water, resulting in overheating. The heat exchanger heats up the cooler water before it can flow through the boiler. If the heat exchanger isn’t working correctly, it can cause overheating. 

How to fix it? 

Checking the water level 

The water level indicates that your boiler is overheating. The first thing you should do is find your pressure gauge and look at it. If it’s between 1-2 bars, then you’re good to go. Anything below or above 2 bars and you’re in trouble. Anything below 1 bars and your boiler will turn off and you’ll be left with no hot water. Anything above 2 bars and your system won’t be able to handle the pressure and it will fail. 

Cleaning the pipes

Every time a stuck pipe appears, your boiler requires a power flush. A power flush is a process that removes rust, limescale and other contaminants from the central heating system. 

Replace faulty components

The most common cause of boiler failure is rust, corrosion, or damage to pipes and connections. Motorized valves can also rust and corrode over time, which can cause them to shut off or on automatically. The most effective way to prevent these issues and extend your boiler’s life is to inspect your boiler on a regular basis and replace defective parts as quickly as possible. 

 If you have any boiler related issues, please do not hesitate to contact MH Heating. Its experts will assist you in getting the best possible home heating. You can also schedule a new boiler installation with their licensed experts.