Automatic Water Feeders for Boilers — Do You Need One?

Published: July 21, 2026 — CANRO Heating & Cooling — Greater Vancouver, BC

What It Does

An automatic water feeder (auto-fill valve) monitors boiler pressure and automatically adds water when pressure drops below the set point (typically 12 PSI). It eliminates the need to manually repressurize using the filling loop.

Benefits

No more manual repressurizing. Stable system pressure ensures consistent heating performance. Protection from low-pressure boiler lockout during cold weather. Ideal for homes with minor system water loss from bleeding radiators or small leaks.

Cost and Considerations

Automatic feeders cost $200-400 installed. If your system loses pressure frequently due to a leak, address the leak first — an automatic feeder will mask the problem and waste water. Annual inspection of the feeder is recommended to ensure it shuts off properly.

Safety Reminder

If you smell gas, suspect carbon monoxide or believe there is an immediate danger, leave the property and contact emergency services or the appropriate gas emergency authority. Do not remain inside — exit the building immediately and call for help from outside.