If your boiler pressure has dropped, don't panic. It's one of the most common issues we see, and in most cases, it's something you can fix yourself in just a few minutes. Low pressure is usually nothing to worry about - your boiler simply needs a bit of help to get back to working efficiently.

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Why Does Boiler Pressure Drop?

Boiler pressure naturally drops over time as the system loses a tiny amount of water. It can also happen after you've had your system serviced or if you've recently bled your radiators. A small leak somewhere in the pipework can cause it too, though this is less common.

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What Pressure Should Your Boiler Be At?

Most modern boilers work best with the pressure gauge sitting somewhere between 1.0 and 1.5 bar. Check your boiler's manual to be sure, but this is the standard range. If the needle is below 1.0 bar, it's time to top it up.

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How to Top Up Your Boiler Pressure

Step 1: Locate the filling loop. This is usually a flexible pipe under or at the bottom of your boiler. It often has two small isolation taps (one on each end) and sometimes a valve in the middle. If you can't find it, check your boiler manual or the manufacturer's website.

Step 2: Turn off your boiler and let it cool. Wait for the system to cool down - a warm boiler can mask the true pressure reading.

Step 3: Locate the isolation taps. If your filling loop has two separate taps (rather than a valve), you need to open both. Turn them both anticlockwise slowly. If it's a single valve, turn it anticlockwise. Do this gently - you're not forcing it, just unscrewing it.

Step 4: Check your pressure gauge. As you open the valve or taps, water will flow into your system and the pressure gauge should start to rise. Watch it carefully.

Step 5: Stop when pressure reaches 1.0-1.5 bar. Once the needle hits the right level, close the isolation taps or valve by turning them clockwise. Again, gentle pressure - don't force it.

Step 6: Turn your boiler back on. Give it a minute to settle, then turn it on as normal. The pressure might rise slightly once the system heats up, and that's fine.

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What If You Can't Find the Filling Loop?

If your boiler doesn't have an easy-to-access filling loop, or if you're not comfortable doing this yourself, that's what we're here for. It's a quick job for us, and it gives us a chance to check everything's working properly while we're there.

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When Should You Call a Professional?

If your pressure keeps dropping regularly (more than once a month), there's probably a small leak somewhere in your system. That's something worth getting checked out, as it can affect your boiler's efficiency and lifespan. We can trace the leak and sort it for you.

Similarly, if you've tried topping up the pressure and the boiler still isn't working properly, or if you're not confident doing it yourself, just get in touch. There's no judgment - we'd rather help you do it safely than worry you're doing something wrong.

Need help? Give us a call on 07775976278 or email rapidflowheating@gmail.com. We're here to help!