Boiler Services Help Keep a Home Warm
Winter months are the worst time for a boiler to break down, but understanding the warning signs of impending failure and how to prevent damage keeps your home cozy all season.
Basic Boiler Information
Boilers distribute heat via water or steam to radiators throughout the home. Generally, these systems use gas, oil, or coal to heat the water before sending it through pipes to radiators. While they’re usually more expensive to install than furnaces or forced air systems, boilers run more efficiently and have a longer lifespan with proper maintenance.
Because of the closed system, less energy is lost, leading to more comfortable warmth in the home. While personal preference may vary, many find forced air too harsh and radiant heat more “cozy” when the outside temperature drops.
Boiler systems also have fewer moving parts to wear out over time. They can be a bit pricey to work on, but as long as maintenance is kept up, these disruptions should be few and far between.
It’s a great idea to have a backup if your boiler breaks down at the worst possible moment. However, looking out for potential issues and performing routine maintenance often keeps the system up and running.
Keep an Eye Out for Common Boiler Problems
The average boiler lasts at least 15 years, with some high-quality cast iron models outlasting 20 years. Problems are more likely to pop up the older your boiler is, but they almost always have obvious symptoms to look out for.
While utility bills will rise as days get shorter, they shouldn’t spike beyond normal usage. Outlandish fuel usage or costs may signify issues causing your system to behave inefficiently.
If your heating system struggles to meet or maintain the target temperature, there may be issues with the thermostat, valves, or water pressure. Furthermore, a boiler that keeps shutting off may be overheating.
Odors or leaks are especially worrisome, and you should have a professional inspect the system as soon as possible.
Tips to Keep a Boiler Running More Efficiently
You don’t have to wait until there’s an issue to give your boiler some TLC. With proper care, these appliances can easily meet or even exceed their life span and save you money (and cold nights) down the road.
Visually inspecting the boiler for cracks, leaks, and visible damage at least twice a year can catch issues before they escalate. During this time, it’s a good idea to make sure the space around the boiler is not cluttered and free of dirt or debris buildup.
The boiler flame should burn a clear blue. Obvious flashes of orange or yellow indicate incomplete gas combustion, which creates higher levels of CO2 and can cause the system to run inefficiently.
Professional tune ups ensure nothing is overlooked and keep the boiler in top shape. They also safely address more dangerous repairs, like working with the gas line, which is best left to a trained technician.
About Swick Home Services
Swick Home Services has over 40 years of experience working in the Marquette and Upper Peninsula area. Customers come first with policies like an apples-to-apples price match guarantee, and their Gold Star Service Club provides savings and benefits to those interested in keeping their home in top shape throughout the year. Reach out to Swick Home Services today for all your plumbing, heating, and cooling needs in Marquette, MI!
