Boilers last for around 15 years on average, but in that time frame, there’s plenty that can go wrong. Over time, small issues build up and lower the efficiency of your boiler until there’s an eventual breakdown. So how do you spot these before they happen so you can get repairs nice and early?
Well, boiler repair in Perrysburg, OH isn’t always so straightforward. These are some of the ways you can tell that your boiler is beginning to struggle and needs repair from a dedicated technician.
Your Boiler is Leaking
It should go without saying, but your boiler shouldn’t leak. If it is leaking, even just a small amount, it could be that there’s not enough pressure in your boiler.
Your pressure relief valve could actually be releasing too much pressure. This is an ideal situation since it can be adjusted somewhat easily.
However, that’s a best-case scenario. Your boiler may have loose fittings (poor seal), or a broken heat exchanger, or it could simply be getting too old and not functioning properly.
Either way, it should be inspected by a technician to determine the exact problem and its cause so you can be completely sure before continuing with a solution.
There Are Strange, Unsettling Noises
Turn off anything in the house that’s making any noise and just listen to your boiler. Do you hear a light humming? That could be the sound of extremely high pressure in your water boiler. That leads to extra wear and tear and can cause joints to loosen.
If you hear a vibrating noise, that could be a failing pump. This isn’t something you can fix on your own and will require a technician to handle.
The only strange noise from your boiler that you can properly handle without prior knowledge or a professional is rattling noises, which is normally the result of air in the pipes. You can bleed your radiators to solve this problem.
Your Room Takes a While to Heat
Simply put, your boiler isn’t doing what it used to. Now you’re beginning to notice how long it takes to heat the room, and maybe it isn’t heating it to the desired temperature anymore (even if it’s coming close).
That’s a red flag: your boiler is on its last leg and requires immediate repair,and potentially replacement depending on how long the problem has persisted.
Your Bills Keep Going Up
If your house is heating up properly, but you notice your bills are going up, check your energy rates. If those seem high, it’s a signal that something in your home is using more power than it’s supposed to.
This is common with HVAC systems as they age. Your boiler is in need of repair as soon as possible. If it’s 15 years older or more, it’s likely time for a replacement.
Time for Some Boiler TLC
Your boiler will last for years if you provide proper care and maintenance. Make sure you watch out for the signals that your boiler needs repair and tend to any issues that pop up as soon as possible. The longer you go without repairing an obvious problem, the larger (and more expensive) it gets.
Contact AW Heating & Cooling, Your Comfort Specialists to handle every problem you run into with your boiler.