The efficiency of your home boiler depends on how often you perform maintenance tasks. If you haven’t had a boiler inspection or tune-up lately, use these important maintenance tips to keep your boiler in tip-top condition.
Thermostat
Take a look at your thermostat for any alerts, such as low battery. If you have an old manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a digital or programmable model. These options offer convenience and greater accuracy.
Condensate Pipe
Take a look at the condensate pipe outside of your home. This pipe directs condensate from your boiler. It should be clear of ice and debris. If ice begins to form, it will accumulate inside the pipe and dam up the line. This can cause your boiler to shut off. If your boiler isn’t working due to a frozen condensate pipe, you can melt the ice by wrapping the pipe with hot water packs.
Venting
Newer condensing boilers often contain direct sidewall venting. This type of venting is very safe and efficient, but it must be inspected and kept clear of any blockages, such as animal nests and ice. If the screen is still on the end of the piping (outside your home), remove the screen, or it will collect ice and block venting. Then, replace the screen in the spring to keep animals out.
If your boiler uses a connection pipe and chimney, check for corrosion, cracks and holes, making sure the seals are intact. Any deterioration must be repaired by your HVAC professional.
Boiler Cleaning and Efficiency
Preventive maintenance can crease heating efficiency and prevent bothersome noises, such as banging and rumbling (kettling). Each month, you should flush about a gallon of water from your boiler to remove minerals and sediment that can hinder efficient heat exchange and eventually accumulate, causing kettling. Also, make sure to drain water from the float chamber monthly to prevent any clogs.
For more details about the heating boiler in your Ogden or Layton home, please contact Smedley Service.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Layton, Utah about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about boilers and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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