Need a Boiler Repair? Here Are the Most Common Issues You Should Know

Homeowners appreciate hot water boilers because of how relatively little maintenance they require. For the most part, boilers are straightforward machines, whether gas, oil, or electric. Yet, sooner or later you will need a boiler repair for common issues.

Sometimes, homeowners will try to diagnose the issue themselves with little success. The reality is that boilers are intricate pieces of equipment. The issue with a boiler could be due to a number of things, which is why it’s important to have a professional assess and diagnose your situation.

To keep you ready, here is a quick rundown of the most common reasons you’ll need to make a boiler repair, as a homeowner.

No heat

There’s never a good time for your boiler to lose heat, especially here in New England.

When a customer reaches out to us to ask about heating issues with their boiler, there’s no telling what the issue may be, until we get an expert into the home.

• Broken pump
• Faulty ignition
• Safety switch keeping the boiler turned off
• Thermostat is broken

Of course, there could be many other causes for why your boiler is not producing heat. This is why it’s important to consult a professional, who can safely determine what solution is best.

Pilot issues

It’s not uncommon for older boiler systems to have a pilot light that needs to left on 24/7. These older systems require a constantly engaged pilot light to ensure that heat is readily available whenever it’s needed.

These systems have mostly changed over the years. Newer boilers will often use an electric ignition to heat water on an as-needed basis. An electric system may help with energy efficiency, but it makes manual pilot lighting impossible. This is why it’s even more important to call a professional technician, who can diagnose and fix your system’s issue.

If you’re unsure about how your boiler system works, it’s best to call an expert to keep yourself safe.

Kettling

Has your boiler started making loud banging noises, almost like there’s something rumbling around inside? This is called Kettling. It’s very important to call a technician when this happens, as it can lead to larger problems down the road.

Kettling occurs when water evaporates inside the boiler’s heat exchanger. This causes expansions which places pressure on pipes, as they try to contain the steam. This is why you hear that rumbling sound. Another way kettling occurs is through mineral build up in the water supply.

When this happens, you’re boiler is likely to lose heat. In the long term, your system can leak and eventually rupture. This is a dangerous (and expensive) issue to be faced with.

Call a professional heating technician as soon as you hear kettling from your system. They may recommend flushing out your system.

Boiler Leaks

If your boiler tank has a leak, you need to call a technician right away.

Tank leaks can occur, as a result of corrosion or a pressure on a relief valve or pump. The good news is that these issues can be repaired. Depending on the situation, it may only be condensation on the outside of the tank, which would require no repairs to be made.

Reducing the need for a boiler repair

Call a local expert that you trust and develop a routine maintenance plan. This will prevent the number of repairs your equipment may potentially need. A local contractor will evaluate your system and will determine the best ways you can protect the lifespan of your boiler.

In some cases, you may need a new boiler altogether. In this case, ask your contractor what kind of equipment will work best for your home’s set up. When replacing a boiler, choose a system that can reduce the need for repairs in the future, while also reducing your energy consumption.

Need help with your boiler?

Scheduling maintenance with O’Neal Plumbing & HVAC Solutions is good first step in taking care of this important equipment.

Our experts are available to answer any questions you may have about the potential need for a boiler repair. If you’re experiencing issues or would like to schedule maintenance, get in touch to speak with an expert.