When a boiler constantly loses pressure, it’s easy to assume a quick fix will do. However, for a recent client in the SE1 (Southwark/Waterloo) area, the location and installation of their Worcester Bosch meant we had to go a step further to ensure a permanent repair.
The Challenge: Hidden Components & Rear Flues
The client was topping up their pressure daily. My diagnosis confirmed a failed internal expansion vessel, a leaking Pressure Relief Valve (PRV), and a faulty Automatic Air Vent (AAV).
On many boilers, these are easy to reach. But on this model, and because the flue went directly through the back wall, there was no room to work. Combined with a tight installation near the ceiling, the only professional way to access the parts was to remove the boiler from the wall.
The Professional Process: Efficiency First
To save the client time and protect the system, we didn’t drain the entire house. Instead, we isolated the boiler from the heating circuit, draining only the unit itself.
- Disconnection: Safely disconnected the pipework, power, and the rear-exit flue.
- Removal: Lifted the unit from the wall bracket to gain full access to the rear.
- Overhaul: Replaced the expansion vessel, the PRV, and the AAV simultaneously to prevent future leaks.
- Re-installation: Re-hung the boiler and reconnected all services.
The “26.9” Safety Standard
We don’t just “swap and go.” Once the boiler was back on the wall, we performed a full recommissioning, including the critical 26.9 checks. This involves verifying the Gas Rate and conducting a Flue Combustion Analysis with a calibrated meter. This ensures that after being moved, the boiler is burning safely, efficiently, and meeting all Gas Safe standards.
Whether you’re in Waterloo, South Bank, or Bermondsey, MAK Plumbing provides technical solutions, not just quick patches.