Boilers are incredibly durable and do not need too much maintenance, but issues can inevitably arise, and being well-informed about what to look for will ensure that you catch problems quickly. Here are three very common boiler repairs and why they happen:
- Kettling: This gets its name from the sound of a boiling kettle (and banging noises) that your boiler makes when it needs to be flushed. This occurs when you have hard water and the mineral deposits build up, which restricts the flow of water and makes it harder for the boiler to do its job. Kettling can lead to leaks, so addressing it early will prevent much bigger problems later.
- Leaks and Drips: This is a common issue that often leads to emergency boiler repairs because a leaking tank may be corroding and will need to be replaced. Leaks cause the boiler to lose pressure and might also short-circuit its electrical components, which cascade into more serious issues. If you notice leaks or drips coming from your boiler, turn off both your hot and cold water and call for professional repair.
- Pilot Light Issues: The pilot light on your boiler should always be on. Signs that it is failing include a lack of hot water or warm air. If your pilot light keeps going out, the thermocouple may be faulty, misaligned, or damaged. The thermocouple is a safety shutoff device that automatically prevents the gas valve from opening if the pilot light is out. Other potential causes include low gas pressure, loose gas valves, or faulty venting. A professional technician will be able to diagnose the problem and get your boiler working properly.
One way to catch issues early is to get routine preventative maintenance performed on your boiler. This keeps the system running in good shape and means a professional can spot red flags long before they become emergency boiler repairs. We would love to help care for your boiler, so contact us today.