Hundreds of Boiler Explosions Due to Cold Weather: What's the Solution That Can Save You a Lot?
The cold storm has led to hundreds of boiler explosions across the country. How should they be addressed, and what might be the solution?
Following the 'Coral' storm that struck many parts of the country where temperatures dropped to freezing, hundreds of solar boilers exploded or broke down.
Many people who discovered this after a particularly freezing night were worried about the 'heavy' expense awaiting them for boiler repair, which could reach thousands of shekels. A plumber who came to repair the boilers revealed to homeowners that they would not need to spend so much, as the issue was not with the entire boiler.
According to him, while many believe the boiler 'went' due to the cold, the problem lies in the boiler's plug, which often comes loose due to the severe cold.
What is the solar boiler plug, where is it located, and how do you fix it if it comes loose?
The safety valve is a crucial component designed to regulate the pressure within the boiler, preventing explosions in the event of steam buildup or unusual temperature increase. When pressure inside the boiler reaches dangerous levels, the valve opens and releases a small amount of water to reduce the pressure.
Where is the valve located?
The safety valve is usually located at the top or side of the boiler, close to the hot water exit tube. It is generally connected to a small drainage pipe that directs excess water outside when pressure is released.
How to fix a safety valve that has come loose?
If the valve becomes loose, it may be due to freezing, high pressure, or natural wear. Here are the repair steps:
- Disconnect the power – Before any boiler maintenance, disconnect the power to prevent electric shock.
- Shut off the main water valve to the boiler – To prevent water from flowing at high pressure.
- Locate the valve – Find the valve (plug) that came loose and check if it is broken or intact.
- Reposition – If the valve is not damaged, gently screw it back into place. If it is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Check functionality – After installation, turn the water back on and operate the boiler to ensure there are no leaks or pressure issues.
When to call a professional?
If after repositioning the valve the boiler continues to drip nonstop, the pressure isn't stabilizing, or if you are unsure how to perform the fix, it is advisable to call a plumber or boiler technician to replace the valve with a new one and conduct a thorough system check.
Additional tip: To prevent the valve from loosening in the future, it is recommended to ensure the solar boiler is protected from cold by properly insulating the pipes, especially during the cold winter months.
