Is Your Boiler Winter-Ready? Stay Warm and Dry and Avoid Leaks
Boilers, like any other mechanical equipment in the home that has been inactive for a few months, can develop problems. These appliances are quite dependable. However, they require visual inspection and sometimes test runs to prepare them for the winter season when the air becomes colder and the dampness sets in. HVAC experts are sharing their tips on preventing boiler breakdowns and leaks.
Check the Thermostat
If you have an older thermostat, it’s important to do a battery check to ensure it’s functioning properly. Older units can malfunction or work inaccurately over time, resulting in the boiler overheating or not heating at all. HVAC experts often recommend updating to a new smart model that is better at temperature regulation and considered more energy-efficient.
Maintain the Circulating Pump
Regular boiler service by an HVAC professional can keep your unit running as it should, especially its circulating pump. This component works doubly hard during wintertime to ensure that hot water is flowing from the boiler to the radiators or baseboard heaters and taps. The last thing you need when there’s a chill in the air is a blocked circulating pump, and that problem can lead to uneven heating or zero heat at all.
The Pilot Light Needs a Look
If you have an older, gas-powered boiler, you have a pilot light. If your home’s water isn’t warming up and your heat isn’t working properly, your pilot light won’t be on. It’s the first thing you should check.
During cold conditions, the pilot lights on older models are prone to going out, and if this happens frequently, it could mean a larger issue with the boiler.
Inspect for Water Leakage
Boilers are amazing appliances for the home, but they don’t last forever. Most boilers have a 20-year lifespan. If you find a leak coming from your boiler, it may not be a huge matter. According to HVAC experts, this would involve the pressure outlet pipe, and a tiny amount of water leaking is okay. If a large amount of water is leaking, this could indicate that there’s too much pressure inside the boiler. If you find water, it could also indicate the boiler’s joints need tightening, or the unit’s rubber seals are damaged and require replacement.
Don’t Ignore Your Boiler This Winter; Be Prepared
Boilers are complex appliances that require specialized training to ensure proper functioning. However, you still need to regularly check on this unit and look for potential red flags as outlined above.
If you live in Berkeley, CA, and want to prevent a breakdown this winter, reach out to LJ Kruse for professional boiler services.