How to remove air lock from water tank
Dealing with an airlock in your water tank can be frustrating and inconvenient. It occurs when air gets trapped in your plumbing system, preventing water from flowing freely. This can result in reduced water pressure or even a complete lack of water. Fortunately, removing an airlock from a water tank is a relatively simple task that you can do on your own without the need for a plumber. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of removing an airlock from your water tank.
Step 1: Locate the Affected Taps
The first step is to identify the taps that are not functioning properly. This is where the airlock is likely to be located. Check all the taps in your house, both hot and cold, and see if any of them are not producing water or have low pressure. It’s important to examine all your taps as the airlock can occur in different parts of your plumbing system.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before attempting to remove the airlock, it’s essential to turn off the water supply to your house. This will prevent any water from flowing while you work on fixing the issue. Locate the main water valve, usually found near the water meter or along the exterior wall of your property, and turn it off.
Step 3: Bleed the System
After turning off the water supply, open all the affected taps to release any trapped air in the system. Start from the most top level of your property and work your way down. Keep the taps open until you hear a hissing sound and see a steady flow of water. This process will help eliminate the airlock by allowing the trapped air to escape.
Step 4: Restart the Water Supply
Once you’ve bled the system and the taps are producing a steady flow of water without any sputtering or air bubbles, it’s time to turn the water supply back on. Go to the main water valve and slowly turn it on. Check all the taps in your house to ensure the airlock has been successfully removed. If any taps are still experiencing issues, repeat steps 2 and 3 until the problem is resolved.
By following these simple steps, you can easily remove an airlock from your water tank and restore proper water flow to your plumbing system. Remember to be patient and thorough during the process, as ensuring all the air is released from the system is crucial for solving the issue. If you’re still experiencing problems after attempting these steps, it’s advisable to consult a professional plumber for further assistance.
Why is an air lock in a water tank a problem?
An air lock in a water tank can cause a range of issues, making it a significant problem that needs to be addressed promptly. Air locks occur when air becomes trapped in the water pipes, preventing the normal flow of water.
1. Restricted water flow
One of the main problems caused by an air lock in a water tank is restricted water flow. The trapped air acts as a barrier, blocking the smooth passage of water through the pipes. This can lead to reduced water pressure throughout the system, which can be incredibly frustrating for homeowners.
2. Oscillating or no hot water
If the air lock is present in the pipes supplying hot water, it can lead to oscillating or no hot water. The trapped air disrupts the flow of hot water, causing it to sporadically turn hot and cold or completely stop flowing. This can make showers uncomfortable and affect daily activities such as washing dishes or doing laundry.
3. Inefficient heating system
In cases where the air lock is in a hot water heating system, it can cause the system to work inefficiently. The air trapped in the pipes prevents the hot water from circulating properly, reducing the effectiveness of the heating system. This can result in increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
4. Damage to the water tank
Continued presence of an air lock in a water tank can cause damage to the tank itself. The increased pressure caused by the air lock can strain the internal components of the tank, leading to leaks or bursts. Repairing or replacing a damaged water tank can be costly and disruptive.
In conclusion, an air lock in a water tank is a problematic issue that can negatively impact water flow, hot water availability, heating system efficiency, and even cause damage to the water tank itself. Addressing an air lock as soon as it is detected is essential to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted water supply.
Methods to Remove Air Lock from Water Tank
Removing an air lock in a water tank is necessary to ensure a consistent flow of water and prevent any disruptions. Here are a few effective methods to remove an air lock from a water tank:
1. Tapping the Tank: One simple method to remove an air lock is by gently tapping the sides of the water tank. Use a soft object, like a rubber mallet or the palm of your hand, and tap on different sides of the tank to dislodge any trapped air bubbles.
2. Releasing the Pressure: If tapping the tank does not solve the problem, you can try releasing the pressure from the water tank. Locate the pressure valve, which is usually located at the top of the tank. Carefully open the valve to release any built-up pressure. Restart the water flow and check if the air lock has been removed.
3. Using a Hosepipe: Another effective method is using a hosepipe to remove the air lock. Submerge one end of the hosepipe in a bucket filled with water and connect the other end to a tap or faucet. Open the tap and turn on the water; this technique can help to dislodge the trapped air bubbles and remove the air lock.
4. Gravity-Feeding: You can also try gravity-feeding the water from a higher position to remove the air lock. Using a large container filled with water, elevate it above the water tank, ensuring a steady flow downwards. Open a valve or tap and allow the water to flow into the tank, pushing out any trapped air in the process.
5. Seeking Professional Help: If the above methods do not work, it may be best to seek professional assistance. Contact a plumber who specializes in water systems, as they will have the required expertise and tools to diagnose and fix the issue.
Remember, safety should always be a priority when dealing with water systems. If in doubt or if the air lock is proving difficult to remove, it is always best to consult a professional.
Bleeding the system
When there is an air lock in your water tank, it is important to bleed the system to remove the trapped air and restore proper water flow. Bleeding the system involves releasing any trapped air by opening specific valves or faucets.
Step 1: Identify the air lock
Before bleeding the system, it is important to identify the location of the air lock. This is usually indicated when you are experiencing reduced water flow or no water at all from your taps or showers.
Step 2: Locate the bleed valve or faucet
Next, locate the bleed valve or faucet in your water system. This can usually be found on top of radiators, near the highest point of your heating system, or on top of the hot water tank. If you are unsure, consult the manufacturer’s manual or seek professional advice.
Step 3: Open the bleed valve or faucet
Turn the bleed valve or faucet counterclockwise to open it. This will allow trapped air to escape from the system. Place a container beneath the valve or faucet to catch any water that may be released along with the air. Keep the valve or faucet open until you hear a continuous flow of water without any air bubbles.
Step 4: Check other valves and faucets
After bleeding the initial valve or faucet, it is recommended to check other valves and faucets in the system to ensure all air has been released. Repeat the process of opening each valve or faucet until you no longer hear any air escaping.
Step 5: Restore water flow
With all the air released from the system, close all the bleed valves or faucets. Turn on the water supply to check if the air lock has been successfully removed and normal water flow has been restored. If necessary, repeat the bleeding process on any remaining air locks.
Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with bleeding the system yourself, it is always advisable to seek professional assistance to avoid any further damage to your water tank or system.
Using a hosepipe
If you have access to a hosepipe, you can use it to remove air lock from a water tank. Follow these steps to effectively remove the airlock:
Step 1: Connect one end of the hosepipe to the cold-water tap and the other end to a tap or faucet on the water tank. Ensure that the hosepipe is securely attached and there are no kinks or bends that could restrict the water flow.
Step 2: Turn on the cold-water tap fully to allow a continuous flow of water into the tank. It is essential to ensure a constant and steady flow of water during this process.
Step 3: Slowly open the tap or faucet on the water tank. This will allow the water pressure to gradually build up and displace any trapped air in the system. Keep the tap or faucet open until the flow of water becomes steady and no air bubbles are visible.
Step 4: Once the airlock is removed and a steady flow of water can be seen, close the tap or faucet on the water tank and turn off the cold-water supply.
Step 5: Disconnect the hosepipe from both ends and securely store it for future use.
Note: If the airlock persists even after trying this method, or if you encounter any difficulties during the process, it is recommended to consult a professional plumber for further assistance.
Professional Help
If you are having difficulties removing an air lock from your water tank, it may be best to seek professional help. Plumbers and professionals in the field have the knowledge and experience to effectively address the issue and ensure that your water tank is running efficiently again.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional
- Expertise: Professionals have specialized knowledge and training in dealing with water systems and air locks. They will be able to diagnose the cause of the problem accurately and provide a suitable solution.
- Efficiency: Hiring a professional can save you time and effort. They have the necessary tools and equipment to quickly resolve the issue, allowing you to get your water system back up and running without any further delay.
- Guarantee: Most professionals offer guarantees on their work, providing you with peace of mind that the issue will be resolved correctly. If any further problems arise, they will often return to fix it at no extra cost.
Choosing a Professional
When selecting a professional to assist with removing the air lock from your water tank, consider the following:
- Experience: Look for professionals who have extensive experience in dealing with water systems and air locks. Choose someone who has a proven track record of successfully resolving similar issues.
- Qualifications and Certifications: Ensure that the professional you hire has the necessary qualifications and certifications to handle the task at hand. This ensures that they have the knowledge and skills required to perform the job effectively.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read customer reviews or seek recommendations from friends and family. This will help you gauge the quality of service provided by the professional.
- Pricing: Compare prices from different professionals to ensure that you are getting a fair deal. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best, so consider the overall value that the professional offers.
By hiring a professional to remove the air lock from your water tank, you can trust that the job will be done efficiently and effectively, allowing you to enjoy a properly functioning water system once again.
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