UK trade guideBoiler Spares 5 min readUpdated 11 July 2026

How to Replace the Auto Air Vent on a Alpha E-Tec Plus 33 (UK)

Step-by-step UK guide to replacing the brass automatic air vent on a Alpha E-Tec Plus 33. Part numbers, torques, commissioning.

Alpha

The part

Fit a new AAV on Alpha E-Tec Plus 33 when the boiler airlocks on start-up or the pump makes gurgling noises after refilling.

Isolate safely

Isolate flow and return, unscrew the AAV from the top of the pump head or air separator on Alpha E-Tec Plus 33.

Fit and commission

Loosen the AAV cap one full turn once refitted — a fully-closed cap defeats the float.

Recommission checklist

Refill the Alpha E-Tec Plus 33 to 1.2 bar cold. Bleed high-point radiators and the internal AAV.

Run a full flue-gas analysis after 15 minutes. Log the reading against the OEM commissioning envelope in the Benchmark book.

Frequently asked questions

Any special height?
Fit the highest point of the Alpha E-Tec Plus 33 circuit — that is where entrained air collects.
How often should I service?
Annually — the float sticks with sludge in unfiltered systems.
Do I need to notify the manufacturer?
Only if the Alpha E-Tec Plus 33 is in warranty — Alpha require log of any part swap for labour claims.
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