Depending on your home, you may have several different types of boilers. Each one has specific problems and repair issues to watch out for. No matter what kind of boiler your home uses, it’s essential to get professional help if you notice signs of a problem. A faulty component can increase wear on the rest of your boiler, worsen your energy efficiency, and eventually lead to total boiler failure.
Reasons Why a Boiler Might Fail
Unfortunately, there are many different reasons why your boiler might fail. If you are unsure why your boiler isn’t working correctly, contact us for help with boiler repairs, maintenance, and emergency services.
1. A Leaky Boiler
Boilers shouldn’t leak or drip water. If you notice a leak, call for professional help right away. Leaks can occur at many locations in the system, and no matter where they occur, they can impact the pressure inside the boiler.
You can look for leaks by inspecting the radiator and boiler. If there is a leak, the pressure will keep dropping over time. Because leaks can be challenging to find, it is a good idea to get your system inspected by a professional.
2. Gas Issues
If your boiler has a gas-related problem, you need to contact help right away. A broken valve and issues with your gas line can cause gas leaks, and if flammable gas builds up, it can even cause an explosion.
In this scenario, the best way to mitigate the danger is to turn off your boiler and gas appliances. Then, schedule emergency repair services immediately after your gas company confirms it is safe to enter your home again.
3. Lack of a Pilot Light
The pilot light is responsible for warming up the liquid that passes through your boiler. If the pilot light is out, your boiler won’t work. However, many modern designs don’t use a visible flame anymore. If you’re unable to get your boiler to restart, you should call for help.
4. Aging Components
Even the best boilers aren’t intended to last forever. In most cases, they will last for just 10 to 15 years. As you reach the end of the boiler’s lifespan, you’ll notice that it requires more frequent repairs. Eventually, the repairs will be more expensive than simply replacing the boiler. To decide if a repair or replacement is the right choice for you, reach out to our team today.
5. Thermostat Problems
The thermostat tells your boiler when it should turn on or off. If the thermostat isn’t registering the temperature properly, your boiler won’t turn on when it is supposed to. The thermostat’s sensors or signaling capabilities could also be an issue.
6. Lime Scale Buildup
Over time, mineral deposits can build up inside your heat exchanger and other components. This can reduce the flow of water and impact the water pressure. It can also cause a problem known as kettling. This occurs when the water turns to steam inside the boiler, which causes the same noise that you hear from a boiling tea kettle.
Because kettling is incredibly dangerous, it should be dealt with right away. Switch off your boiler. Then, call one of our repair technicians for help. They will most likely flush the system to remove any mineral deposits. If the buildup has caused a component to break, you may also have to replace some boiler parts.
How To Respond if Your Boiler Fails
Depending on the underlying cause, you can perform a few simple steps whenever you notice your boiler isn’t working properly.
- Resetting the boiler using the manufacturer’s guide
- Look for potential leaks
- Make sure your thermostat settings are correct
- Ensure your power supply is working
If none of these steps work, calling a professional right away is crucial. For kettling problems, gas leaks, and similar issues, you should switch off the boiler before you call for help. These problems can be potentially life-threatening, so you must exercise caution. A professional can help you safely inspect and repair your boiler.
Get Emergency Boiler Repairs
Simmons Heating & Cooling can help Chesapeake, VA, residents with all your heating, cooling, and indoor air quality needs, including heat pumps and ductless air conditioners. In addition to boiler-related problems, we can repair and maintain your generator, water heater, radiant heating, and ductwork. For more information about our boiler repair services, contact one of our team members today.