Cast Iron boiler repair

Boobie69

Hello,
I have a very old cast iron boiler. Gas fired. We have a internal leak. It starts up and runs, but after a while, water is leaking onto the flame sensor, the pilot goes out. I have to go and restart the boiler and do the process as least 2, 3 times a day. I am worried about when the real cold hits I will not beable to keep this going. Had a plumber look at it and they said non repairable because it is a cast iron boiler...is that true? Am I screwed?

Any info from anyone would be great and thanks. Any other info you may need, please let me know.

Jamie Hall

For all practical purposes, your plumber is correct.

STEAM DOCTOR

You need a new boiler. No question about it

Boobie69

Thank you. I just wanted to be sure. DAM...right before winter...no luck at all..Thanks again. Stay safe.

JUGHNE

Hot water or steam?

EBEBRATT-Ed

You can try some boiler sealer. It won't put the replacement off but may keep the water from dripping on the sensor so you can keep it going in the meantime

MaxMercy

Boobie69 said:

Thank you. I just wanted to be sure. DAM...right before winter...no luck at all..Thanks again. Stay safe.

If it's not a big leak, you can try a boiler seal like this:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Hercules-32-oz-Boiler-Liquid-30115/100147992

It's a temporary solution if it works at all, but it may buy you time to calculate proper size, type, make of boiler, and installer.

Steamhead

@Boobie69 , is this a steam boiler? Where are you located?

Boobie69

Sorry for the delay answer..not steam hot water.

Steamhead

OK- try the "Find a Contractor" link above- you'll need someone who knows your system.

Boobie69

Thank you. I will check. I think the boiler needs to be shot. Thanks everyone for the help.