The boiler is one of those appliances you can’t do without during a winter in this area. Because of this, it’s imperative to make sure it runs well throughout the season. Here are some ways to help your boiler work even when the temperatures are frigid.
Have a Professional Inspect and Troubleshoot Your Boiler
Winter care for your boiler happens before winter. In the fall, have an HVAC professional inspect and troubleshoot your boiler. These professionals are trained to find small problems and fix them before they become difficult and expensive to repair. These include leaks, faulty thermocouples that cause the pilot light to fail, and problems with the heat exchanger and power supply. The professional may also flush the boiler to remove a buildup of limescale.
What You Can Do for Your Boiler
After the professional has checked your boiler, it’ll be up to you to keep an eye on it over the winter. Many of these tasks are easy to do, but you’ll need to keep up with them. If there are tasks that are beyond you, don’t wait to call a professional for help.
Bleed Your Radiators
One of the problems that can beset your boiler is air getting into the system. This air stresses the boiler and makes it work too hard. Because of this, your boiler’s lifespan may be shortened, and your energy bill may go up. Just before winter sets in, place a bucket beneath each radiator, and open up its air bleed valve. The bucket should catch any water. If no water comes out after the air is released, there may be a system issue. Call your HVAC professional.
Clear the Area Around the Boiler
Make sure the area around the boiler is free of clutter and debris. The boiler needs air to combust properly. Anything that blocks the flow of air can lead to incomplete combustion, and that can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Make Sure the Flue Vent Is Clear
In regard to carbon monoxide, the flue vent takes it away from your home and discharges it to the outside. An open flue vent also helps your boiler work well.
Check the Boiler’s Water Level
As part of the seasonal inspection, your HVAC professional may need to fill the boiler with water. You should also check your boiler’s water level during the season to make sure water or steam is getting to all of your radiators.
Your boiler keeps you and your household warm and comfortable throughout a sometimes brutal winter. When your boiler stops providing heat, it needs to be considered an emergency. If you ever need boiler service, get in touch with the HVAC technicians of Big Sky of Helena, Montana.