Leak detection in central heating systems

[Nimrod]

I wonder if any forum members have experience of modern leak detection systems as I would be interested in their views and experiences.

The query is triggered by a leak on a pressurised domestic central heating system. It drops about half-a-bar in 24 hours. The pipes serving the downstairs radiators are embedded in a concrete floor.

As I can find no water damage to ceilings I assume the leaks in the solid floor.

The systems been dosed with sealant but it doesn't seem to have had much effect.

B)

[Puddle]

If you are loosing .5 a bar in 24 hrs leak sealer will probably not work I am afraid, pipework will have to be re-run surface or leak detected in floor and repaired
It is worth mentioning that if leak sealer in used for a small leak, say a drop over 3 or more days, then on a pressurized system, to give it a better chance of working the pressure should be dropped to .5 bar and heating thermostat lowered to provide warm radiators only for a few days needless to say some combi boilers will not work at this pressure

[bcp]

What leak sealer did you use?

[Puddle]

I use fernox

[Bernie2]

Hmm

What principle do leak detectors work on?

If it sets on a temperature rise accompanied by exposure to air, then pipework enclosed in concrete is not going to have much air circulating to set it off, I would not have thought.

Its like Radweld that has been used in car radiators for years. Reports say success only patchy. But hey the chance you may have to dig up a floor ain't funny.

[REDSAW]

as its summer now, so im told. why not try an air test pipe to pipe then re run the leaking section.