What Should I Do If My Boiler Pressure Is Too High?
CANRO Heating & Cooling provides expert advice on this common question for homeowners in Greater Vancouver. If you need professional service, our licensed technicians are available across the region.
Related Services from CANRO
CANRO Heating & Cooling provides comprehensive boiler service across Greater Vancouver, including diagnostic inspections, emergency repairs, scheduled maintenance, and system replacement. Our Red Seal certified technicians service all major brands and carry OEM parts in their vehicles. For emergency service related to this question, call (604) 359-1081.
When to Call a Professional for Help
While understanding the answer to this question is helpful, some situations require professional expertise. If you are uncertain about any step, if the problem recurs, or if you notice any signs of gas odour, carbon monoxide, or electrical hazards, contact CANRO Heating & Cooling immediately. Our licensed technicians across Greater Vancouver can provide expert diagnosis and repair. We recommend professional service for any issue that involves gas, electrical components, or safety-critical systems.
Answer: What Should I Do If My Boiler Pressure Is Too High?
A boiler pressure reading above 2.5 bar (when cold) is too high and can trigger the pressure relief valve to discharge water or cause system damage. First, check if the filling loop valves are fully closed — if left slightly open, they slowly add water and increase pressure. If the valves are closed and the pressure is still high, the expansion tank may have failed. The expansion tank absorbs the increase in water volume as the system heats up; when it fails, pressure rises rapidly during operation. You can safely bleed a small amount of water from a radiator using the bleed key to reduce pressure temporarily, but professional service is needed to address the root cause.
Safety Reminder
If you smell gas, suspect carbon monoxide or believe there is an immediate danger, leave the property and contact emergency services or the appropriate gas emergency authority. Do not remain inside — exit the building immediately and call for help from outside.