GETTA Help

Boiler leaking water: what to do

A boiler leak can come from a loose connection, a pressure problem or an internal component. You do not need to identify the exact fault yourself: contain water only if it is safe, keep it away from electrics, and arrange the right professional help.

First, look at where the water is going

  • If water is near sockets, wiring or the boiler’s electrical controls, do not touch wet electrical equipment. Keep clear and seek urgent professional help.
  • If you can do so without touching the boiler, place a container or towels beneath a small drip to limit damage.
  • Note whether the leak is constant, appears only when heating is on, and whether the pressure display has changed.

What the symptom can mean

Water may be escaping from visible pipework or a connection, or from a part inside the boiler. High system pressure, a failed seal or valve, corrosion, and condensate drainage problems are among the possibilities. The position of a drip alone is not a reliable diagnosis because water can travel along the casing or pipework.

What not to do

  • Do not remove the boiler cover or try to tighten, dismantle or replace internal parts.
  • Do not work on gas components or bypass a safety control.
  • Do not keep using an appliance you believe may be unsafe. Work on the gas boiler itself must be done by a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.

When to get help

Arrange professional attention for any continuing boiler leak. Treat water reaching electrics, a rapidly worsening leak, loss of heating in cold weather, or signs that the appliance may be unsafe as more urgent.

  • Tell the professional the boiler make and model, where water first appears, when it happens, the pressure reading, and any fault code.
  • If you smell gas, open doors and windows, avoid electrical switches or flames, leave if necessary, and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.