What’s causing my Header tank to over flow in Birmingham


Why Is My Header Tank Overflowing? Causes, Dangers & Expert Repairs in Birmingham

If your header tank is overflowing, it’s a clear warning sign that something is wrong with your plumbing or heating system. Homeowners in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, and Solihull often ignore the early signs, but what starts as a drip can quickly become a disaster. At Afterglow Plumbing & Heating, we specialise in header tank repairs, boiler services, and emergency plumbing — and we’re here to explain the causes, dangers, and solutions.

Common Causes of an Overflowing Header Tank


  1. Faulty Ball Cock
    A worn or broken ball cock (float valve) is one of the most common reasons for a leaking header tank. It prevents the water supply from shutting off, causing the tank to overfill.
  2. Faulty Overheat Thermostat
    When the overheat stat on your boiler or cylinder fails, it can cause dangerous water expansion, forcing hot water back into the tank. If left unchecked, this requires emergency boiler repair in Birmingham.
  3. Overflow Pipe Issues
    If your overflow pipe is blocked or incorrectly fitted, water won’t escape as intended — putting your central heating system and ceiling at risk.

The Dangers of Ignoring a Leaking Header Tank


    • Ceiling Damage – We were recently called to a property near the Birmingham Library. The header tank had been overflowing for days, and the ceiling was on the brink of collapsing. Our emergency plumber arrived just in time, saving thousands in potential repair costs.
  • Electrical Hazards – Water dripping onto electrics can cause shocks, fires, or complete system failures.
  • Rising Costs – What starts as a small leak can quickly lead to costly plumbing repairs.


If you spot signs of an overflowing tank, call a 24/7 plumber in Birmingham before it’s too late.


Afterglow Plumbing & Heating – Local Experts You Can Trust

We’re a trusted, Gas Safe registered company serving Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, and Solihull. Our services include:



  • Boiler installations & boiler repairs in Sutton Coldfield and Solihull
  • Central heating repairs & maintenance
  • Emergency plumbing (burst pipes, leaks, ceiling repairs)
  • Bathroom & kitchen plumbing services
  • Landlord gas safety checks

We now cover more areas including Wylde Green, Boldmere, Walmley, and Four Oaks in Sutton Coldfield, as well as Olton, Shirley, Knowle, and Dorridge in Solihull.

Whether you need a plumber in Harborne, Moseley, Kings Heath, or Edgbaston, we’ve got you covered.


If you spot signs of an overflowing tank, call a 24/7 plumber in Birmingham before it’s too late.

Why Choose Afterglow?

Fast response times – perfect for emergency plumbing in Birmingham

Local engineers who know Sutton Coldfield & Solihull inside out

 Transparent pricing – no hidden costs

Fully qualified heating engineers & plumbers

Get Your Overflowing Header Tank Fixed Today

Don’t let an overflowing header tank in Birmingham cause long-term damage to your home. Afterglow Plumbing & Heating is here to keep your property safe, warm, and dry.

 Call us now on 07826924452 

Afterglow Plumbing & Heating — Your local experts for plumbing and heating in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, and Solihull.

 Transparent pricing – no hidden costs

 Fully qualified heating engineers & plumbers

Get Your Overflowing Header Tank Fixed Today

Don’t let an overflowing header tank in Birmingham cause long-term damage to your home. Afterglow Plumbing & Heating is here to keep your property safe, warm, and dry. 

Afterglow Plumbing & Heating — Your local experts for plumbing and heating in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, and Solihull.