Interference from gas boiler.

[Thakey]

Does anyone know how I can stop an interference noise on all analogue receivers when a certain phase of the boiler is on. It lasts for about 15-20 seconds and basically drowns out any sounds. I only use this radio to receive some FM radio stil on analogue but it is still annoying. Before the digibox the tv used to have a large distorted line and similar noise. (So did the phones) it seems that it needs a surpressor of some sort but I've never heard of one being fitted as an addition to a boiler. (or perhaps there was one that is now faulty) The boiled is quite old - IDEAL E-type, and I keep thinking that one day I'll replace it . The noise doesn't start when the boiler fires up , it is just before it cuts out (but happens every few mins when first on.) It is not only happeniing to radios plugged in to the same mains but also to battery radios. Any Ideas how to stop it? thanks.

[ACtheTROLL]

me neither

the dooo hicky is obviously going faulty
(the existing suppressor doesn't exist any more)

sounds like the thermocouple controlled thermostat
(follow the long snakey copper tube)

trouble is often the thermostat and valve are often part of a unit

and it could be the pump which has a very big capacitor choke

or the hot water zone valve which is also choked
zone valves often have a ikkle lever to manually open them

you can try quickly adjusting the boiler and room thermostats to try and create/stop the fuzz

the problem is clunky old boilers live forever .... if you can live with it .... you won't need to pay for a man in a van who is better suited to finding this sort of thing

the wiring is simple .... but it depends how confident you are with a neon screwdriver

the newer "magic" continuity power tester
should flicker if held an inch or so away from the noise source (worth a go for a fiver - you can also test the microwave)

[Thakey]

Thanks AC Troll old chap.

Tried most things you say. thought it was the solanoid which when tested was on its way out but no...
The system is gravity fed , No diverter valves as such.. could be t' thermostat which could be shorting as about to kick off.. pump would make the noise always when on, not necessary when boiler alight. I can control the noise by turning off the roomstat or boiler , but wife moaning about why the house gets cold when the radio is on? I have a clever plan of setting the clock to go off before the programs i want to hear without interuptions but sundays it goes off from 8.30 am until 7.00 pm. (not popular as also effects hot water and kids have a cold bath!)

Really wanted to know does a surpressor exist?
thanks

[Hymie]

Yes, suppressors exist, in essence they consist of a capacitor placed between Live & Neutral.

The way they work is that at the high frequency of the electrical noise, they provide a low impedance path (between Live & Neutral) � effectively short circuiting the noise.

The closer the capacitor is to the noise source, the more effective it is.

Providing that you are competent working on Mains circuits, you need to find a convenient location within the boiler circuit to connect the capacitor. The capacitor should be an approved X type (rated for 250V~), you could try a range on values from 0.01uf to 0.47uF.

Maplin have a limited range of such capacitors.

[ACtheTROLL]

got to say I'm a fixer not an innovator

I can test and bodge what's there (generally) but
as for bunging in a new one .... as extra .....????

my boiler is with a service plan - part fear - part laziness
parts fitted by someone else ;)

http://www.diyfaq.org.uk/plumbing/controls/con trols.html

[ACtheTROLL]

see this http://forum.toppy.org.uk/forum/viewtopic.php? p=36500&highlight=&sid=ac853f606f84c7eaf50cb28 445a7646a

[Thakey]

Thanks Hymie and AC.. I willl give it a try and look at the links sent.

By the way AC.. you have solved the problem, i no longer need a radio , I'll just read your postings for entertainment. lol :-}