Most of us take for granted that our heating systems will work properly when we need them, but what happens when you start experiencing boiler problems in the middle of the winter? Fortunately, there’s no need to panic. By following these steps, you can navigate your way through most boiler problems with ease.

1. Pinpoint the problem

A variety of things can go wrong with a boiler, but if you can narrow it down, you’ll be able to get on the road to repair faster. Some common boiler problems include:

  • No heat or hot water
  • Strange noises
  • Pilot light going out
  • Pressure loss
  • Boiler shutting itself down
  • Boiler won’t turn on

2. Attempt to find the source of the problem

Now that you’ve pinpointed the problem, try to determine the underlying cause of the problem. The more information you can give to your HVAC contractor, the quicker your boiler problems will be resolved. Here are some common sources of boiler issues:

  • Thermostat problems – If your thermostat is old or malfunctioning, it could affect the temperature of the water and could cause your boiler to cycle off frequently.
  • A leak – Leaks within your system could cause low pressure, problems with heating the water, banging sounds or lead to your boiler cycling off.
  • Kettling – If lime scales have built up in your boiler’s heat exchanger, you may notice strange bubbling sounds.
  • Frozen condensate pipe – If your boiler has broken down during cold weather, your condensate pipe may be frozen.
  • Broken/malfunctioning parts – If none of the other listed causes are evident, the problem could be internal and is likely due to broken or malfunctioning parts.

3. Call an expert

After you’ve completed your detective work, it’s time to call in the professionals. Your helpful information will give your HVAC technician a good starting point so that he can lock down the problem and correct it in the most efficient manner possible.

To schedule a technician to check out your boiler, contact us at Comfort Systems. We proudly serve residents of Wichita and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Wichita, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about Boiler Problems and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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