VALVES (including Radiators)

Valves are a common place to look. Anything that moves will leak over time. Radiator valves leak from a gland nut under the cap. If you are a bit handy you can undo the cap and gland nut and get some more packing in there.

Some valves are not suitable for this. Belmont radiator valves are made so that the “o” ring washers can be replaced.

Gate valves can usually be repacked but beware of pump valves. The slot head type cannot be repaired. DO NOT MOVE IT! Water will probably squirt out of it. Some pump valves leak at the body. Be very careful with this! If the body is leaking and you try to tighten it up the head of the valve could sheer off! What a mess!

Motorized valves can also leak on the spindle. You can usually see the signs on the underside of the valve before it blows a fuse. This is why the valve must be installed as per the diagram with the electric head not in the way of water should it leak.

Your system may have been fitted with a safety valve (photo).

This is a throw back from when we used to fit coal boilers which could boil and blow up. If the person who fitted your system was of the “old school” he may have fitted one of these valves, unless you have a sealed system. Do not attempt to tighten this up as it may leak worse.

In most cases valves will need to be replaced.

Drain down every time. You have got the time and it is a good opportunity to clean the system and to fill up with inhibitor.