Boilers are one of the unsung heroes of modern homes.
They keep on chugging along behind the scenes, keeping us warm and providing us with showers and baths, but they aren’t magic, and they are unfortunately prone to going wrong every now and then.
While most issues won’t be quite so dramatic, some people will be concerned about boilers exploding. Here, we take a closer look at that risk, especially in relation to low pressure issues.
It’s highly unlikely a boiler will explode
Technically, yes, a boiler explosion is possible. However, the combination of both explosive gases and high pressure means that boiler designers have, from pretty much the beginning of boiler development, aimed to design boilers with multiple failsafes.
As a result, it is highly unlikely that boilers will explode for any reason – there are simply so many safety mechanisms integrated into them that it makes it massively improbable. And, if there were to be a pressure-related explosion, it would likely be due to high, not low pressure.
Low-pressure issues
If your boiler is suffering from low pressure, it will likely show that through other problematic symptoms. That could include a lack of both hot water and heating, or even, in more extreme cases, the boiler cutting out altogether.
The clearest sign will be on the pressure gauge, of course, but you might also hear strange noises. It should typically be between around 1 – 1.5 bar, but your user manual will have more specific data for your model.
Causes of boiler explosions
There are a few reasons why boilers might explode. These generally result from extremely high pressure, either due to a malfunctioning safety valve or some other critical failure.
If the water levels drop excessively low, and other sensors are broken, which would normally detect this, then it’s also possible that the boiler would overheat and potentially explode. Again, it would require the failure of critically important components.
The importance of regular maintenance
Despite the multiple safety mechanisms in boilers nowadays, they still need regular servicing by companies like Able Plumbing in order to ensure their ongoing safe operation. In most cases, you’ll want to have these inspections carried out annually – that’s just a recommendation for home owners, but for landlords, it’s also a legal responsibility.
The engineer will be able to check if there are any worn parts – including safety valves and sensors – and replace them if necessary. Not only will this ensure that the boiler functions safely, but it will also help it to run at optimal efficiency, saving you money on your heating bills.
Boilers shouldn’t explode, and if they do, it will be due to high, not low pressure. It’s important that you get your boiler inspected and serviced at regular intervals, to make sure that the safety mechanisms which stop it from exploding are still working.
Failure to do so could end up putting the lives of people in your home at risk, along with wasting your money in the long run.
