Your boiler is the machine that provides your home with hot water and heats your home year-round. For some homeowners, it’s an integral part of their lives, while others don’t pay much attention to them until something happens. Boilers can cause problems if they aren’t working properly, so it’s good to understand what the most common boiler services and repairs are so you can fix any potential issues before they become serious problems.
Low Water Pressure
A common boiler issue is lower water pressure. If you have low water pressure, it means that not enough water is getting to your boiler. In some cases, it might mean that your boiler isn’t able to get hot enough due to low pressure. It's also possible that mineral buildup has occurred inside of your pipes, which results in restricted flow through them. If you notice a decrease in water pressure, try turning up your hot-water heater temporarily and then call a boiler repairman to inspect your system for leaks or other damage.
Replacements for Corroded Parts
The heart of your boiler is its firebox. The firebox is made of thick, heavy-duty steel that provides a large surface area for burning coal or wood. Unfortunately, the heat and flame will corrode parts over time—and once these parts begin to fail, you'll need to make some repairs. Replacing corroded pieces of your system isn't hard to do as it's one of the more common boiler services that many homeowners opt for. With the help of a professional, you can replace your boiler’s corroded parts and make it new again.
Heating Element Installation
A heating element is a critical component of your boiler, as it converts electricity into heat. When it begins to malfunction, you’ll see issues with temperature control or problems with pressure fluctuations. Heating elements should be replaced every ten years, so factor that in when comparing repair prices to replacements costs. If you suspect your heating element needs to be replaced, contact a service technician to assess the situation and determine whether repairs or a replacement are needed.
Tank Flushing
Another common boiler service is flushing the tank. Flushing the tank helps eliminate sediment buildup in your boiler as it gets rid of dirt and debris in your tank. This is a service done twice a year where a licensed plumber will drain, clean, and refill your tank. This service helps prevent potential problems like sediment build-up in your boiler which might reduce efficiency.
Boiler services and repairs are vital to protecting the overall longevity of your boiler. If you notice that your heating system or boiler isn’t working correctly, consider reaching out to an expert to service and repair your boiler.
