Leaking 15mm isolation valves

[Bav]

I've just changed a radiator on a Worcester Greenstar 42CDI boiler combi system. When I bled the radiator I topped up the pressure at the boiler to around 1.5bar. I did this a couple of times as the pressure dropped whilst filling as it is quite a big double radiator. I noticed water on the floor in the utility room where the boiler is and on further investigation found water spraying out of the screws on three 15mm isolation valves. These valves are situated behind the kitchen units and are on various sections of pipework. I have drained down the whole system and am changing all of the valves even ones that were not leaking but I would like to know what has caused this. The only thing I can think of is that I somehow over pressurised the system and the fittings failed? Any help will be very appreciated as I am now in the dog house with the missus.

 

[ShaunCorbs]

no normally if there not touched for a few years the rubber o ring on the spindle goes hard and doesnt seal so they start dripping

 

[lame plumber]

fail when you turn them, everytime

 

[Sparkgap]

Some cheapo valves are just cr@p. Replaced a couple on 15mm copper to some fan convectors and new ones started leaking within a year.

 

[turnpin]

If you have space fit lever valves ...if tight space fit genuine ball-o-fix valves.....regards Turnpin

 

[plumben]

Fit full bore ISO valves if you can't get leaver valves in, I've found them to be a little bit better in quality

 

[village idiot]

If the valves are fitted to the cebtral heating system, I will remove the lot. They have no reason being there. Much as some installers fit them so sections of pipework can be isolated, I believe they just get sludgedup eventually. Wasre of time IMHO

 

[Best]

+1 for them not being required. No need whatsoever for cheap isolating valves on heating pipes. And they are not designed for heat, or frankly any length of life. Total tat.

 

[stevetheplumber]

60p each you dont expect to be able to use them do you? they are there for the convienience of the plumber who fits them after that they are more miss than hit

 

[AWheating]

Most ISO valves are not suitable for heating systems and only rated for 65 degrees.

 

[village idiot]

fail when you turn them, everytime

Fail if you look at them for too long