You likely do not think about your boiler until it breaks down. At that point, you are contending with the freezing cold, trying to get the heat back on as soon as possible. That often means emergency repairs, which can cost significant amounts of money. Boilers hardly ever fail straight away without giving off warnings. If you know the signs of trouble to look for, you can schedule service early, save money, and avoid an uncomfortable surprise.
Strange Noises You Can’t Ignore
While your boiler runs, the only sound you should hear is a quiet hum. Anything else means trouble. If you hear banging or rumbling, minerals are building up inside the tank. Whistling can mean a faulty valve or trapped air. Failure to address the issue will result in problems getting worse over time, which will make repairs extremely expensive.
Uneven Heating in the House
Uneven heat in your home is another dead giveaway you have a problem. In this case, your boiler is unable to adequately push heat to every room in your home. Clogged pipes, failing circulation pumps, or an aging unit that no longer works efficiently can be the cause. This is even more noticeable during the night when temperatures outside drop, and the system must work harder to maintain the temperature in the home.
Leaks or Puddles Around the Boiler
You should never see a puddle of water near your boiler. If you do, you have a leak, and you must address it straight away. Water leaks can lead to corrosion, which will eventually cause your system to fail completely. Additionally, safety hazards, such as mold growth and damage to the structural integrity of your home, can result. In addition to having to replace your system, you must pay thousands more dollars to repair your home.
Rising Energy Bills
Your energy bills should remain the same if you have not changed usage habits. If you notice sudden spikes, your boiler may be the culprit, especially if it is older. Older units are not as efficient as they have to consume more fuel to do their job. When you start to see your utility bills rise without any other apparent cause, your system is on its way out.
Frequent Repairs
Constant breakdowns are another warning sign you should not disregard. If you need to call for multiple repairs within a short period of time, your system is about to expire. A repair occasionally is one thing, but you should not have to call a technician frequently.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
When you act quickly, you have the chance to avoid shelling out cash for a replacement sooner than you planned. You will also not have to pay for emergency repairs. If you find that your system is soon about to fail, you can start planning for a new one, which means that you will not find yourself scrambling for cash.
Your boiler is essential for keeping your family safe and warm during the winter months. So, heed the warnings that it gives and act quickly. If your boiler in your Helena, MT home is starting to show signs of failure, contact Big Sky, and we will work with you to help maintain your comfort.