A boiler system can only work as efficiently and effectively as it is meant to if it is properly cared for. This means it needs to be professionally installed and serviced by trained and experienced HVAC technicians.
One of these services is maintenance—yearly maintenance will help keep your boiler performing at its best and save you money in repair costs, among other benefits. Of course, even the most well-cared-for boiler may still have repair needs and eventually will succumb to age. What’s important for you to know is how to spot signs of a boiler in distress. We’ve covered the most important signs below.
Age
The standard boiler system, when properly maintained, can last about 15 years. Even if yours hasn’t quite reached this age, it’s worth considering an upgrade, since even in the last 5 years boilers have been manufactured to be far more efficient. If your boiler is 15 years old or older then it’s likely it will start showing signs of distress soon.
Foul Odors
Of course, your boiler doesn’t have to be old to have symptoms of repair needs. Something like unfamiliar or unpleasant smells coming from the system can affect a boiler at any age, and it’s a sign that should never be ignored.
Bad smells can be indicative of a gas leak—particularly if that smell resembles rotten eggs. This needs to be taken care of as soon as possible upon discovery.
Even if you aren’t dealing with a gas leak, bad smells may be the result of a problem with your ventilation system.
Leaks
A leak is something that should certainly never be ignored when it comes to your boiler. Not only can this create property damage in your home, but it can be a sign of something going wrong inside your boiler. Plus, leakage will lead to boiler inefficiency.
Temperature Troubles
If you notice your water is typically colder or hotter than what the temperature is supposed to be, then you could certainly have a problem with your boiler. The water is likely not circulating as it should be, which means your boiler can’t possibly heat your home consistently.
Higher Than Average Utility Bills
Of course, your energy bills will rise the more you use your heating system over the winter months. But if your bills are significantly higher than what they were last year, or compared to what your neighbors are paying for comparable use, then you likely have a boiler that’s not performing as efficiently and effectively as it once was.
“What If I Have Frequent Repair Needs?”
The above-mentioned boiler problems might all be resolvable with repairs, and you should certainly call a pro if you do discover you have repair needs. However, if you find you are making calls like this a couple of times a year or more, and you have an aging boiler, it is probably time to consider an upgrade.
A new boiler system might seem like a big investment, but so too is the mounting cost of repairs you’ll see if you keep trying to fix a failing system.
For expert boiler repair in Toledo, OH, contact AW Heating & Cooling—“Your Comfort Specialists”!