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What is my thermal relief valve for?

2 replies

PaleDaffodils · 31/03/2022 20:04

I have this thing (pic attached) on a pipe that comes from my Megaflow. I think it's a thermal relief valve. I understand that you can see a drip through the window. But under what circumstances does it work? I assumed it would only drip in an emergency? But mine drips every time the boiler comes on. Can anyone tell me if this is normal? I noticed tonight it's getting quite crusty with limescale.
Paging @PigletJohn
Thanks to anyone who can cast light on this.

What is my thermal relief valve for?
OP posts:
PigletJohn · 31/03/2022 20:34

I don't think it's a thermal relief valve. I think it's a pressure relief valve.

If it drips when you start heating, I would guess that the heat is causing water expansion inside, and the device that should accommodate the expansion is not working.

Unvented cylinders have to be repaired by people with an extra qualification, your regular boiler mender may be qualified, she will know if you ask. It is not a DIY job.

IIRC your Megaflo has a pocket of air inside that gets compressd when the water expands. With luck the service person can reinstate it. Some other types have an egg-shaped white cylinder, usually fixed to the adjacent wall, that can be swapped for a new one. I have heard of Megaflows being replaced under guarantee but I do not know the terms.

Unvented cylinders ought to be regularly checked for correct operation, this can conveniently be done during the annual boiler srevice. People will tell you they can be made to burst, but, like a kettle, you could only do it if you removed or blocked and overrode all the safety devices (hence qualified people only allowed to work on them) and AFAIK it has only been done on laddish comedy TV programmes.

PaleDaffodils · 31/03/2022 20:41

Many thanks @PigletJohn

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