Hot water tank overflow overflowing..

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jonb

451 posts

Ultimate Geek

Topic # 113989 4-Feb-2013 09:46
For the past few days the water chimney-type pipe on the roof has been leaking a constant stream of water. A bit of research says it will likely be a broken old Pressure Release Valve (likely triggered by the water pressure when Watercare switched the mains off and on again, and off and on again). Is this a do-able job for a DIY non-expert to try, or should I just phone a plumber?

1247 posts

Uber Geek

Reply # 755409 4-Feb-2013 10:12
It may also be a shot thermostat, Does the water stop erupting if you turn the power off for the cylinder for 10-15 minutes ?, if it does then it is probably a thermostat issue.....

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Reply # 755445 4-Feb-2013 11:12
Call a plumber. If any one part of the system has failed it is probably old enough to check a few other things at the same time. A plumber will usually do that and make sure the system is in good working order. DIY plumbing looks easy but there are all kinds of incidental issues which may arise which are better handled by a professional. The alternative is can be constant back and forth to the plumbing supply shop and no hot water for a while. ; ).

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Orcon

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Reply # 755447 4-Feb-2013 11:17
If you have one of those tall pipes up above the roof, this is almost certainly due to your NEFA valve (inlet valve) failing. Get a plumber, don't piss about trying to fix it yourself...

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Reply # 755448 4-Feb-2013 11:17
That pressure valve might need a clean. You should be able to shut the water off either side of the valve and then unscrew the dome in the center of the valve , there is a metal bar with a washer disk under it. Take the disk out, clean it and put it in upside down (so it's like new) and then assemble and turn the water on. The cold water pressure may also be too much and turning the pin/screw on the other side of the valves access nob is used to adjust that, but it should not be needed. If it's still persisting to leak then call the landlord or a plumber.

108 posts

Master Geek

Reply # 755456 4-Feb-2013 11:26
when ever i hear of diy on hot water tank by people who do not know what they doing - this comes to mind http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68p4ngS-yME

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Reply # 755460 4-Feb-2013 11:30
That pressure valve might need a clean. That is good advice but be aware that any part of that process may cause a partially failed valve membrane to fail 100%. At that point you have a new situation to deal with.

451 posts

Ultimate Geek

Reply # 755466 4-Feb-2013 11:38
Thanks guys. I think I should just call in a plumber before the water bill gets too big (and the damage of a DIY disaster).

108 posts

Master Geek

Reply # 755473 4-Feb-2013 11:46
jonb: Thanks guys. I think I should just call in a plumber before the water bill gets too big (and the damage of a DIY disaster). it not the water bill i would be scared seeing, it the power bill to heat all that water i would be scare off

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Reply # 755669 4-Feb-2013 16:55
With the water bill if you inform the supply company you had a leak (when you receive the next bill) then they will look at your usage history and give you a proportional refund. But it will not be much, as others said it is the power will that will be the shocker. You can never have enough Volvos!