Beyond any other appliance in our homes, boilers are largely invisible and one of the most essential amenities that help keep the home warm during chilly winters and provide hot water for our everyday needs. While the systems are generally reliable, occasional issues can arise, causing disruptions in the heating and comfort.
If you are facing a problem with your boiler, you are probably wondering what you could do about it. As expert boiler repair technicians, we compiled a comprehensive guide on troubleshooting the possible issues within your boiler system.
The Function of a Boiler System
Boilers are essential appliances in the home. They are commonly used as central heating units that provide not only warm water throughout the house but also keep warm temperatures that ensure comfort. Boilers work by heating water or producing steam, which is then circulated throughout the house to radiators, underfloor, heating systems, or baseboard heaters.
The heat generated by the boiler is transferred to the air or objects in the living space, creating a cozy environment. They also provide hot water for showers, baths, and other household tasks. To maintain the efficiency and functionality of your boiler, it is crucial to know how to troubleshoot it properly and keep up with regular maintenance.
Key Components of Boilers
Before diving into the troubleshooting techniques we offer you, we first want to start by explaining the critical components of boiler systems. Knowing these key components will help you troubleshoot your boiler successfully.
Boiler
This is the central unit, and it is responsible for heating water or generating steam. Boilers come in various types, including combi boilers, system boilers, and conventional boilers.
Burner
The burner ignites the fuel within the combustion chamber, creating a controlled flame essential for heating generation.
Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger transfers heat from the burner to the water or steam, ensuring efficient heating throughout the system
Combustion Chamber
The area where fuel is mixed with air and burned in the combustion chamber. It is responsible for producing the heat that is transferred to the heat exchanger.
Flue
The flue is a duct or pipe that carries exhaust gases from the combustion chamber to the outside. It is vital that it has proper ventilation to maintain a safe removal of combustion by-products.
Expansion Tank
The expansion tank helps. Accommodate the expansion and contraction of water within the system, preventing pressure-related issues.
Pump
The pump circulates water, or steam, throughout the system, which insurers even the distribution of heat to different parts of the house
Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve is another essential component that releases excess pressure to prevent damage to the boiler and other components. It is an essential safety device that prevents your boiler from exploding.
Common Boiler Problems & How To Troubleshoot Them
Now that we’ve covered the key components, we can dive into the common boiler problems. You might face, and how to troubleshoot them. Keep in mind that if any of these techniques that we propose to you do not work, the One Source Home Service boiler repair techs are just one phone call away.
No Heat or Hot Water
Nothing is as frustrating when you find that your boiler isn’t producing heat or isn’t providing the hot water you need. Here’s why that may be the case for you:
- Faulty thermostat
- Airlocks within the heater
- Issues with the pilot light
- Problems with ignition control
Those issues may seem impossible to overcome, but we want to encourage you with the following troubleshooting tips:
- Check the thermostat settings to ensure they are set correctly to your desired temperature. Ensure that it is calibrated correctly. If necessary, replace the batteries to ensure efficient and proper operation.
- To remove air locks within the heating radiators, we suggest bleeding the radiators of excess air bubbles.
- Locate the manufacturer’s instructions for your heating system and follow the instructions on relighting the pilot light. This should help resolve any issues with the pilot, light, or ignition system.
If these issues persist, you must contact a boiler repair technician for advanced assistance.
Strange Noises
Though your heating system may be producing the necessary temperatures and hot water you need, the strange noises that come while it’s operating may create a nuisance. Sometimes these issues are caused by a buildup of lime scale, air in the system, pump, failure, or other issues within the heat exchanger.
Here’s what you can do to troubleshoot this problem:
- Power flush the boiler to remove the lime scale
- Bleed the radiators of any excess air to stop the crackling noise
- Check the pump for proper functionality
Leaks
If you notice that you’re boiler is leaking, you will need to address this problem as soon as possible. Usually, leaks occur because of corroded pipes, faulty pressure, relief, valves, or issues with the pump. Here’s what you do to troubleshoot this issue:
- Identify and fix the source of the leak, which typically involves replacing a faulty component
- Replace faulty valves
- Contact a professional boiler repair technician for pump-related problems.
Boiler Not Turning On With Thermostat
If your boiler isn’t turning on automatically with the thermostat, there may be issues with the thermostat function. An old, faulty thermostat or wiring issues usually cause these issues. We recommend checking the thermostat settings and inspecting the wiring for damages or loose connections. Try replacing the batteries in the thermostat, and if that doesn’t work, you may need to consider replacing the entire thermostat as a whole.
Low Boiler Pressure
If you are experiencing low boiler pressure, this may be caused by water, leaks, or bleeding radiators. This issue typically requires a thorough investigation by a professional boiler repair technician. However, we leave you with the following tips to attempt to fix the problem or at least discover the reason for it:
- Check the boiler system for leaks that may contribute to low boiler pressure.
- If you have radiators throughout the house, check all of them for a potential bleed of air.
- Locate the manufacturer’s instructions to see their tips for re-pressurizing the system.
- If your temps do not work, contact a boiler repair technician.
Is the Boiler Still Not Working?
Is your boiler still giving you a hard time despite your attempts to fix it? Whether you need boiler repair or a new boiler, no worries because with One Source Home Service, you can access the best boiler techs in Colorado Springs.
Contact One Source Home Service to schedule prompt and high quality troubleshooting and repair services today.
