Can your boiler EXPLODE? How to prevent a boiler explosion

Good quality boilers can last between 10 to 15 years on average. However, an overheating boiler is one of the clearest signs that you might have a pressure build-up that may result in a furnace explosion. 

If your boiler starts to overheat, it is an indication that something is seriously wrong with the appliance, and it can explode if you continue to use it. This can result in a charge anywhere from £1500 to £3000 for a new boiler to be installed in your home.  

Even though boiler explosions are rare, it is still important to learn how and why they can happen. With that being said, the team at Boiler Central have revealed how to spot signs of a boiler in danger of exploding, and what to do to prevent it from happening.  

Causes of Boiler Explosions

Gas Leaks 

A natural gas leak is one of the most dangerous boiler explosions because it can cause a fire outbreak. A faulty connection or leakage in the gas container can cause this type of boiler explosion. 

High Pressure 

While gas leaks are extremely dangerous, high pressure is the leading cause of boiler explosions. When there is too much energy in the boiler, the appliance can no longer withstand the excessive pressure and will eventually cause an explosion. 

Collapse of the Crown Sheet 

If the crown sheet is not covered with sufficient water, it can collapse under pressure, creating a build-up of excess pressure and causing an explosion. 

System Weakness 

Several boiler components can become weak over time and start to malfunction. A corroded boilerplate or a faulty pressure relief valve can cause an explosion, especially if the water level in the boiler becomes too low. 

Tell-tale Signs Your Boiler is Going to Explode 

Boilers don’t just explode without giving some signs. In fact, the signs are often present for a long time before an explosion. 

Your boiler is overheating 

An overheating boiler can happen when the safety controls of the boiler begin to fail. If the controls are not in good working condition, it becomes difficult for the appliance to maintain the ideal temperature and pressure, as well as the water and gas supply. If not handled properly and quickly, overheating can cause the boiler to explode or burn, leading to serious property damage and may even hurt emergency service responders. 

The water from the boiler has a foul smell 

If your hot water has a foul smell, such as the smell of a rotten egg, it is usually a result of microbes and sulphur inside the tank. Although this usually doesn’t pose any immediate danger, it is still a problem and can lead to an explosion if left for too long. 

Water from the boiler is brownish 

A build-up of sediments and rust in your pipes can turn the hot water brownish. If this goes unchecked for a long time, it can cause the flow to reduce and eventually lead to an explosion. 

There is a pinging noise in the pipes 

Sediment and rust in the pipes can also cause pinging, popping, or banging noises. If you don’t fix this in time, it can build up and result in an explosion. 

Your boiler smells very odd 

An odd smell coming from your boiler is possibly due to a gas leak. An explosion can occur if your boiler starts smelling like rotten eggs or sulphur. 

How to prevent your boiler from exploding 

Boiler explosions are rare these days, thanks to top-of-the-range appliances from reputable brands. However, proper care and routine maintenance are essential when it comes to preventing boiler explosions, regardless of the brand or quality of boiler you have. 

A spokesperson from Boiler Central said: “Set the pressure level below maximum. You don’t want your boiler to operate at full capacity all the time. This is why it is a good idea to keep the pressure gauge in the green section most of the time. This means your boiler is below the maximum pressure level. 

“Turn off your gas boiler at night during hot weather. If possible, consider turning off your boiler at night when the weather is hot.

“Clean your boiler and pipes. Turn off the appliance and clean the boiler and pipes if you notice that the water is coloured. If you’re not sure about cleaning it, consider hiring someone to do it for you. 

“Turn off the gas supply if the boiler smells. If you notice any odd smell from the boiler, turn it off and shut off the gas supply. Have a professional fix it before you use the appliance. 

Source: https://www.boilercentral.com/