Boiler Maintenance: Overview, Guides, and Signs to Look Out For
Boiler systems offer an efficient way to heat your home. Instead of passing hot air through a duct system, a boiler passes water through pipes. Boilers use radiant heat, so there is no need for ductwork. Water circulates in a closed loop, releasing heat as needed and returning for reheating.
Anatomy of a Boiler
The thermostat calls for heat. The boiler system's burner ignites, heating the heat exchanger. Heat transfers to supply water. Heated rooms have terminal units, such as radiators or fan convectors. An air scoop removes excess oxygen.
The location of a terminal unit is called a zone. Each system has zone valves or circulating pumps to ensure water maintains the ideal temperature.
Common Boiler Issues
Seasonal Changes Affect Systems:
- Winter: Increased demand, frozen pipes, and condensation.
- Summer: Stagnant water and corrosion.
- Spring/Autumn: Temperature fluctuations.
Maintenance, proper insulation, water treatment, and ventilation are essential.
Pilot light issues are common. The device ignites gas entering the combustion chamber and heats the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a required safety device. It produces a small amount of voltage necessary to hold the gas valve open.
When the pilot light is out, the valve closes, which prevents the buildup of dangerous unburned gas.
Dust and debris may clog the gas nozzle. Clean the combustion chamber.
Sounds like banging, gurgling, or whistling indicate issues. Trapped air, low pressure, or a failing pump are common causes. If you hear such noises, consider a professional inspection.
Signs Your Boiler Needs Repair
If your boiler isn't heating as expected, consider common issues:
Leaking pipes often lead to low pressure. Airlocks hinder the circulation of hot water.
The thermostat may be faulty. Check the settings and ensure proper operation.
A clogged filter restricts water flow. Clean or replace the filter as needed.
The boiler scale reduces efficiency and causes breakdowns. Maintenance prevents scale from building up.
One or more valves may be faulty. Malfunctioning valves disrupt water flow. Check and replace as necessary. A lack of hot water or heat in a zone may signal a problem with a mixing valve, airlock, or diaphragm.
Increased heating bills may indicate a need for boiler repair. Inefficient operation is more expensive than running a well-maintained boiler system.
If you notice a foul smell, look to see that the flame is burning blue. If it is yellow, you likely have a carbon monoxide leak. If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in the home, evacuate your family until a technician resolves the issue.
DIY vs. Professional Repair
If you are handy around the house, you may have luck fixing problems. However, leave specific problems, such as electrical problems and gas leaks, to technicians.
Regular boiler maintenance ensures safe and efficient operation and costs less in the long run.
Find out how to monitor pressures and temperature. Inspect for leaks regularly and call us if anything seems off.
Contact Ardmore Fresh Air to schedule a boiler inspection or repair today. If you need more information, contact us. We are happy to help.
