Leaking unvented hot water cylinder - help needed - pics included

[jbc27]

HI

We've got an unvented hot water cylinder with an element for providing hot water when not being feb by the Stanley Waterford stove which also does the central heating.

I've just noticed stains on the ceiling downstairs so took a look at the cylinder and there is tonnes of efflourescence and corrosion around the 'thermowatt' thing sticking out of the tank - pic below. I believe it is the heating element.

Simple question - is this a new cylinder? Or can the cylinder be drained down, part removed, cleaned up and a new one installed. If so any ideas on cost for such work?

Advice very much appreciated

 

[jbc27]

I've done some research and found a website (can't post link) heatingreplacementparts dot co dot uk

part number Ariston 65101884 is the relevant part - so should just be ok to replace like for like?

Further question being why has this happened? Tank is 7 yrs old so wouldn't expect it to be so bad. Does the system need a full flush?

Thanks

 

[Dotty]

STOP NOW!

You need to hold a g3 ticket to work on an unvented cylinder. Cock this uo and you don't get hurt just a little bit. That thing has the ability to take the side of your house off!

You're barking up the wrong tree regarding a flush, drop that idea for that particular issue.

Post a thread in the 'I'm looking for a plumber / gas engineer' section of these forums remembering to include your location. [DLMURL="http://www.ukplumbersforums.co.uk/im-looking-plumber-gas-engineer/"]I'm looking for a Plumber or Gas Engineer[/DLMURL]

 

[jbc27]

Chris I wasn't going to do it myself! Hence asking how much it would cost to do. will post in the suggested area. thanks

 

[Dotty]

Good man, it's yours and your family's safety we'd be concerned for.

Without knowing where you are and not accounting for the unforeseen I think you'd be looking £100 - £150 plus parts.

As I said, if you post in the looking for a plumber forum as linked previously you'll get someone contact you.

 

[jbc27]

Thanks croppie - South Wales. See these things being blown up on Mythbusters so definitely not touching anything. Have posted in the looking for section now. Cheers for the suggested prices that's encouraging!