Applying Leak Sealant to Central Heating

When seasons change, it is very important to check your heater system for leaks and other problems. This saves you time and effort from fixing leaks and from letting your heating system corrode. A leak in your heater is a huge problem, so if you do find one a leak sealant is the solution.

Step 1 - Identify the Problem

Before you conclude that there is a leak in your central heater, do some troubleshooting. Is there a loose nut? Do you need to tighten something? Do you hear a weird sound whenever you turn your heater on? Ask yourself these questions and probe around your heater to check if there is something to mend.

Once you’ve confirmed that something is fishy, go to the basement (if you have one) and check the expansion tank. Check if the tank is half filled with water by tapping it with a screwdriver. If it produces an empty sound, either you don’t have water or there’s another concern that needs to be checked. Put water first, and then open the valve to let pressure in. If the tank fails to produce a weird sound, then your tank is all right.

Step 2 - Bleed the Pipe

If there’s still something wrong with the tank, you have to “bleed” the pipe. Meaning, you have to let the air out of the valve to let heat off. You have to switch your radiator key on. Lack of pressure makes the tank inadequate to heat the house.

Go around the valves and test for leaks by feeling its surface. The radiator valves are the ones prone to leaks. If you find something wet on the surface of your heater, that confirms you have a leak in your central heating system. Be careful when going around your heater. Use an old rag to serve as a protection when you are feeling for leaks.

Step 3 - Stop the Leak

There are sealants designed to address this kind of situation. Follow the directions on the back of the package. Once you have your sealant, drain the central heating header tank. When finished, pour in sealant.

Step 4 - Fix the System

Go to the drain cock and remove five-10 liters of water. Make sure none of the treated water is disposed of. Repeat this step until the leak sealer is drained from the system. Make sure there is no leak sealer left in the header tank.

Step 5 - Check the System

Once you’re done, switch on the circulating pump and let small amounts of heat into the system. Use your old rags to clean the area to avoid accidents.

If the problem still persists, it is advisable to seek professional help. Mention to your handyman what you did and what product you used to mend this household problem to help him determine what he needs to do.