5 Signs Your Boiler Needs Urgent Boiler System Maintenance

Boilers are the heart of any home heating system and what keeps your home warm and cozy. They're also the reason why you can have hot water every day, and, in general, they're what makes the cold seasons much more bearable.

That's why a malfunctioning boiler can be such a big problem and why regular boiler maintenance is an essential part of keeping your home warm and safe. But what if your boiler is failing? Are there any signs that it needs servicing?

Today, we'll cover five foolproof signs that tell you your home needs urgent boiler system maintenance and what to do if you spot them. Remember: If your boiler is showing signs of trouble, give us a call! Sinrom Construction will have your boiler fixed and running in no time.

Strange Noises

Boilers are usually quiet, so any unusual sounds like banging, whistling, or gurgling tend to be red flags, and each one points to a specific issue:

Kettling

A rumbling sound similar to a boiling kettle is usually caused by some kind of buildup on the heat exchanger, usually limescale or sludge. This restricts the water flow and leads to overheating, which causes the rumbling.

If left unaddressed for too long, this can crack the heat exchanger or cause steam and cavitation, which can be avoided with regular boiler system maintenance.

Air in the System

Typically followed by gurgling and water, trapped air in your pipes can lead to water flowing unevenly, which causes those noises and can also lead to pressure drops.

Purging the system typically resolves this issue, but if this keeps happening even after that, boiler servicing may be needed.

Pump Failure

Grinding and humming sounds may point out to pump failure, which is a problem because pumps are critical components to any water heating system, particularly in multi-zone setups.

Pumps are used to circulate water around the boiler system, which is why, when they fail, they often need to be replaced by a professional technician.

Boiler Scale

Popping and cracking noises are usually created by mineral deposits from hard water. Regular descaling and the installation of a water softener can prevent or at least slow down this buildup.

This is a good example of how external factors, like hard water, can impact how often should a boiler be serviced. No two boilers have the same exact needs. That said, manufacturers often recommend water softeners, especially for tankless water heaters.

Visible Water Leaks

Water leaks are a serious issue that shouldn't be ignored, as they not only can damage your boiler but can also lead to costly repairs if unaddressed.

If you spot water around your boiler, see it leaking, or suspect it might have a leak, give us a call for an inspection.

Some of the most common causes for leaks are:

  • Worn seals
  • Corroded components
  • Poor pipe connections
  • Loose fittings
  • Cracked heat exchangers
  • High pressure in the system

Water leaks are more common in cast iron boilers because of their construction and age-related wear, but they can happen to all water heaters and it's never a good sign.

Frequent Pilot Light Problems

Your pilot light is the small flame inside your boiler and should always remain steady and blue. When the light is yellow or constantly goes out, this might point out these serious issues:

  • Gas Supply Issues: If the gas supply is inconsistent, be it because of a leak, a service problem, or the boiler itself, this can disrupt the flame and cause it to constantly go out.
  • Faulty Thermocouple: The thermocouple is a small device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. When it isn't working correctly, it might cause the flame to change color or won't fulfill its original function.
  • Carbon Monoxide Risks: A yellow flame is usually a good sign of incomplete combustion, which can produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and dangerous gas.

If you notice any of these issues in your boiler, turn it off immediately and call a technician. Regular boiler servicing can help prevent these issues, but even then, if you see something, do something.

Poor Heating Performance

If your home isn't heating up like it should, there might be some issues with your boiler. Here are some of the usual suspects:

Low Water Pressure

Boilers rely on consistent water pressure to work properly, and low water pressure can trigger safety systems designed to turn off the boiler entirely. Checking and replacing your boiler's feed valve is a common solution, but it's not always effective.

Pump or Zone Valve Failures

In multi-zone systems, like those in large homes, pump or valve failures can result in uneven heating. Without proper circulation, some rooms will be cold while others are warm.

There are many things that can cause poor heating performance, and while all of them point to some issue with your boiler, some are more dangerous than others.

If you consistently notice poor heating performance, you should schedule gas boiler servicing to restore your home's heat efficiency.

Rising Energy Bills

Have you seen a surprising jump in your energy bills? A faulty boiler might be the culprit. Here are some of the things that can make your energy bills go up:

Limescale or Sludge Buildup

When minerals build up inside your boiler, they can create limescale or sludge that can restrict your water flow. When this happens, your boiler works harder, which makes it consume more energy.

Regular maintenance of the installation of a water softener, can help prevent this issue.

Failing Components

Every day wear and tear can cause components like heat exchangers and pumps to fail, and when this happens, your boiler consumes more energy to keep up with performance.

How Often Should a Boiler Be Serviced?

Keeping up with professional maintenance is essential for your boiler to run without a hitch. EnergyStar.gov suggests that you should think about replacing boilers that are over 15 years old.

Until then, keeping up with maintenance is a great way of getting these benefits:

  • Safety Assurance: Routine inspections ensure professionals can detect any issues before they become dangerous.
  • Energy Savings: A well-maintained boiler runs more efficiently, which means you'll save on energy costs and lower your bills.
  • Longer Lifespan: Taking care of your boiler means it'll stick around longer, so you can put off replacing it for a while. Not only that, but you won't have to spend nearly as much on repairs!
 

Don't Wait, Act Now!

Your boiler is essential for keeping your home comfortable, and overlooking warning signs can be both expensive and risky, which is why you should keep up with regular boiler system maintenance.

If you've seen any of those 5 signs, just give us a call today. No need to wait. At Sinrom Construction, we're proud to offer top-notch boiler repair and maintenance services, keeping you and your house warm and safe.

FAQs

How Often Should I Service My Boiler?

Keeping up with regular boiler system maintenance is a smart move, so you want to do it at least once a year. This can help lower the chances of any problems, and can help keep your warranty intact.

How Long Does a Boiler Service Take?

Our standard boiler service usually runs for about 60 to 90 minutes. Our technician will take the time to inspect, clean, and test different components to make sure everything is in working order.

Can a Regular Plumber Do This for Me?

Not every plumber is cut out for boiler system maintenance, even though many can tackle general plumbing tasks. Hiring boiler servicing expert is much safer in the short and long run.

Is a boiler service necessary to keep my manufacturer's warranty valid?

Absolutely, most manufacturers need you to have annual maintenance on your boiler system to keep that warranty intact. That said, it doesn't hurt to look at your warranty to see what the manufacturer has to say.

What are the perks of getting your boiler serviced regularly?

Keeping up with regular boiler system maintenance has its perks:

  • Improved Safety: Spots potential risks such as gas leaks.
  • Higher Efficiency: Ensures the system operates at its best, helping to lower energy costs.
  • Longer Lifespan: Reduces wear and tear, helping the boiler last longer.
  • Warranty Compliance: Checks all the boxes to keep your warranty intact.