Boiler maintenance is essential for several reasons. It helps ensure people’s and property’s safety by ensuring the boiler works correctly and safely. Meanwhile, it also helps to increase the system’s efficiency, reducing energy costs and improving overall performance.

Regular maintenance also helps extend the boiler’s life, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. Lastly, regular maintenance can help detect developing premature issues, preventing severe damage from occurring. But which things should homeowners consider?

1. Clean Boiler Insides

   Regular boiler maintenance is essential for the boiler’s proper functioning and efficiency. Without it, the boiler can become clogged with debris and dirt, leading to a performance breakdown. Cleaning the boiler’s inside regularly can help prevent this from occurring.

   Depending on your boiler type, there are a few different ways to clean the inside. If you have an oil-fired boiler, you must use a special cleaner to remove any build-up of soot and dirt. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from gas-fired boilers.

   But if you have an electric boiler, you can use a stiff brush to clean the inside. Once you have cleaned the inside of the boiler, you should then inspect it for any signs of corrosion or damage. Call a technician immediately before it worsens, and make necessary repairs.

2. Observe Pilot Light

   Maintaining a safe and efficient gas furnace is essential to being a responsible homeowner. One of the most critical steps in ensuring your furnace is working correctly is checking the pilot light—the tiny flame that ignites it when it is in use.

   It is essential to check the pilot light regularly to ensure it is not blocked or damaged. Homeowners can usually check the pilot light by looking through the window of the furnace. If the flame burns, the pilot light is lit, and the furnace should work correctly.

3. Check the Water Pressure

   Another critical step in maintaining a safe and efficient gas furnace is to check the water pressure. Water pressure is essential for adequately functioning a gas furnace, as it helps control the temperature. If the water pressure is too low, the furnace will not heat the home efficiently.

   To check the water pressure, homeowners should use a gauge that can be purchased at any hardware store. Once the indicator is attached to the water line, the homeowner can check the water pressure and make sure it is within the recommended range.

4. Adjust Flame as Necessary

   Another step in maintaining a gas furnace is to adjust the flame as necessary. The flame should be adjusted to be a bright blue and not flicker. If the flame is too low, it can cause the furnace to heat inefficiently, and if it is too high, it can cause the furnace to overheat.

5. Clear Air Vents

   Finally, it is essential to clear air vents regularly to ensure proper airflow by vacuuming them and removing any debris or dust that may have accumulated. It will help to ensure that the furnace is running efficiently and that the air quality in the home is not compromised.

Conclusion

Maintaining a boiler can help ensure it works properly and efficiently. Changing the air filters, checking the pilot light, inspecting the heat exchanger, adjusting the flame, and clearing air vents can help keep the furnace in good condition. By following these steps, homeowners can ensure that their gas furnace runs correctly and efficiently.

L.J. Kruse Co. offers residential heating services in Berkeley. We specialize in heating and cooling functions, ensuring homeowners will use furnaces and boilers for longer. Book an appointment through our website and hire us for commercial plumbing services today.