A leaking boiler is never a good sign as even small drips of water can lead to big problems. But don’t panic – a leaking boiler doesn’t always mean game over for your appliance. In many cases, it’s a fixable issue that just needs attention from a professional. While lots of people Google ‘plumber near me’, this might not get you the right person. In order to carry out safe repairs, make sure to choose a Gas Safe registered gas engineer.
This guide covers why boilers leak, what to do if it happens, and when to call a heating engineer. Spoiler alert: quick action from a trusted professional can save the day! If you’ve found this page because you have a leak right now, feel free to cut to the chase and book here.
Why is my boiler leaking water?
There are many reasons your boiler might be leaking. Some are minor, while others are more serious. Here are some of the most common causes we see:
Faulty pressure relief valve
Some boilers are pressurised systems. If the pressure gets too high, the pressure relief valve (PRV) may leak water to protect the system.
SIGNS TO LOOK FOR: water dripping from a small copper pipe leading outside, (often causes staining) or pooling beneath the boiler.
Loose or corroded pipework
Over time, joints and seals inside your boiler can loosen or corrode. This allows water to escape.
SIGNS TO LOOK FOR: slow drips around connections, staining, or damp patches under the boiler.
Worn internal components
Parts like the heat exchanger or pump seals can fail, especially in older boilers.
SIGNS TO LOOK FOR: constant dripping even when the boiler is off.
Incorrect installation
A badly fitted boiler may have pipework issues that lead to leaks early on.
SIGNS TO LOOK FOR: leaks appearing soon after installation.
Condensate pipe issues
Modern condensing boilers create condensate and drain it away. A blocked or damaged pipe causes water to leak inside or around the boiler.
SIGNS TO LOOK FOR: dripping water, gurgling sounds, boiler shutdowns in cold weather, or damp patches near the pipe connections.
What should I do if my boiler is leaking?
- Turn off the water supply – this will help limit damage
- Switch off your boiler – to avoid electrical hazards and further problems
- Check the pressure gauge – if it’s too high, that may be the cause
- Mop up any standing water – to prevent damage to floors and ceilings
- Call a Gas Safe registered heating engineer – do not attempt to fix internal components yourself
Why you shouldn’t ignore a leak
It might be tempting to mop up the water and hope for the best, but ignoring a boiler leak can cause much bigger problems.
Escaping water can reach electrical parts inside the boiler, leading to costly damage. What starts as a small drip can quickly lead to full system failure. In rare cases, leaks can lead to more serious faults and safety issues that put you or your home at risk.
A quick call to a qualified engineer is always better than waiting until the boiler stops working completely. If you’re not sure, why not WhatsApp us!
Can I prevent boiler leaks?
While some leaks are down to wear and tear, you can reduce the risk with regular care:
- Annual servicing – A Gas Safe engineer can spot early signs of corrosion or loose seals before they cause leaks
- Pressure checks – Keep an eye on your boiler pressure gauge and avoid running the system too high or too low
- Magnetic filter installation – Filters trap debris and sludge in your system, reducing corrosion and protecting pipework. Poor water quality also affects internal seals and components, making them deteriorate more quickly
Preventative care keeps your boiler working efficiently and reduces the chance of leaks.
Boiler leaking in Milton Keynes? Lime Heating can help
If you’ve spotted water around your boiler, the safest step is to switch it off and call a professional. At Lime Heating, our Gas Safe engineers find and fix leaks fast, helping you avoid further damage, costs and stress.
If leaks are becoming frequent, or the water damage is severe, it may be time to replace your boiler.
We serve homes across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas, offering boiler repairs, servicing, and system protection solutions.
Don’t ignore a leak — contact Lime Heating today and keep your home safe, warm, and stress-free.
