Common Boiler Issues And How To Fix Them

Most people do not give much thought to the condition of their boilers until there is a sudden issue. Going without hot water and heating that your home desperately needs, especially during colder months, is frustrating.

There are several reasons your boiler may not be functioning efficiently. Here are three common boiler issues and how to remedy them.

1. No Heating or Hot Water

It is frustrating and stressful when your boiler fails to function. Your boiler should provide you with hot water and heating whenever. However, broken system diaphragms, airlocks, low pressure, a broken thermostat, and faulty motorized valves can cause boiler malfunction.

Low pressure will cause heating problems. If the pressure reads below one, you need to repressurize your boiler.

Say the thermostat is causing your boiler not to heat water. Call a plumber to check and fix it. Technical problems like broken system diaphragms or faulty motorized valves will need professional expertise.

2. Low Boiler Pressure

Your boiler needs optimum pressure levels to ensure efficient water circulation throughout the system.

If the pressure gauge indicates a lower than the standard level (below one), then the boiler pressure is low. Low pressure often results from leaks. These leaks usually happen around bent pipes with failed seals and joints. Also, failed and corroded boiler components can form holes and cause leaks. Therefore, check the radiator valves to see if there are any leaks.

If you find leaks, call your local plumber to repair the boiler. If there are no leaks, follow your boiler's manual and reset the pressure.

3. Noisy Boiler

Sudden noise changes in your boiler are an indication that it has an underlying issue. Kettling (whistling), banging, or gurgling are some sounds you may notice if your boiler has a problem.

A limescale build-up on the heat exchanger is likely to cause kettling noises. Moreover, overheating will result in steam production and bubbling, which will then cause whistling noises. The potential extent of damage suffered by your boiler will vary depending on where the noise is coming from.

Bleed the radiators if the boiler is making gurgling noises. Knocking sounds are rather usual due to the expansion and contraction of heating pipes. However, you should check if they are in a good position (not fixed to the joints or floorboards too tightly).

Regular boiler maintenance and prompt repairs will eliminate these sounds. A technician will cleanse your boiler with chemicals and add a limescale inhibitor to prevent future build-up. For more information on boiler repair, contact a professional near you.