Boiler problems are unfortunately common, especially in winter, here in the Mid-Ohio area. A handy boiler troubleshooting guide is definitely in order for local residents who use boilers for heating their home and its water. Luckily, keeping these annoying HVAC problems in check is quite simple – schedule professional preventive maintenance. Economical HVAC service helps keep your boiler in top condition, extending its life and saving you money on operating costs.
Boiler troubleshooting guide
- Although most problems must be diagnosed and repaired by your boiler service technician, being an educated consumer is always important.
- No heat or hot water: Valve failure is common, with thermostat issues or low water level often contributing to the problem.
- Leaks or drips: Diagnosis depends on the source of the water leak.
- Banging, whistling or gurgling sound: Low water pressure and/or air in the system are typical causes.
- Unreliable pilot light: A broken thermocouple prevents gas from reaching the pilot light, and broken air seals (causing drafts) may blow it out. Make cleaning the first step, in case the culprit is debris buildup.
- No/low pressure: Water leaks and/or broken pressure relief valves are often at fault. Recharging the system with air and/or replacing the valve are typical fixes.
- Condensate pipe: Newer energy-efficient units have condensation pipes vulnerable to winter freezing. Call your HVAC expert to thaw the pipe.
- Thermostat: Older thermostats may lose accuracy, turning heat on/off erratically. Cleaning, recalibration or a new thermostat may be in order.
- Lime scale buildup: Accumulation on the heat exchanger may cause rumbling noises from steam bubbling.
- Cold radiator: Pipes may be rusted or lined with debris, or a faulty pump may block hot water flow. Chemical cleaning, system flushing or a new pump can get things going again.
- Boiler turning off: Check the water pressure gauge -- if normal, problems could be the thermostat, low water flow (a closed valve), or the water-circulating pump is faulty.
Questions about the boiler troubleshooting guide? Contact the pros at Joe Behr Plumbing & Heating for expert assistance. We provide top-notch HVAC and plumbing services to the Mid-Ohio area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Mid-Ohio area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about boiler troubleshooting and other HVAC topics, visit our website.
