Most 21st century buildings have boilers because the one unit efficiently performs the work of a combined heating system and water heater setup. But, making sure your boiler remains functional year after year requires some upkeep, as well as the occasional boiler troubleshooting. Most importantly, scheduling inspections with a local boiler maintenance company can help prevent the need for costly repairs. These extra steps can also ensure that everyone in the building stays safe and comfortable during the winter season. Read on to learn more about preparing your boiler for the colder months ahead.
Check for Anything Likely to Cause Blockages
Keep your boiler functioning at its best by clearing away any materials that could cause a blockage. This is important because blockages in the boiler’s inlet combustion air or outlet flue stack can cause toxic gases to build up that are harmful to the building’s occupants. These fumes may also affect the boiler’s overall performance, which could lead to the unit breaking down. With that in mind, inspect the boiler to ensure all its components are working correctly.
Clear the Area
Before the winter heating season, review the area where the boiler was installed. It’s best to remove any objects near the boiler to allow air to freely circulate around the unit. Be sure to store all flammable items far away from the unit in order to prevent a dangerous explosion. Similarly, keep products made of paper or cardboard away from the boiler because these materials can easily ignite. And finally, it doesn’t hurt to dust the unit to eliminate any dirt.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carbon monoxide gas is very dangerous. In fact, it can be lethal. Your top priority should be keeping everyone in the building safe. To effectively monitor your boiler, install a carbon monoxide detector as an additional safeguard to the boiler’s alert systems. With this alarm in place, you’re guaranteed to receive an immediate notification if there’s ever a carbon monoxide leak.
Turn the Boiler On
Boiler inefficiencies can be the result of a loss of pressure, rust, and blockages. Turning on the boiler and recording the unit’s temperature once a day can help you to detect issues early on, especially in the winter when the unit is being used more often. It’s likely that the earlier you identify a boiler issue, the less trouble the repairs will be.
“Bleed” the Boiler
Bleeding involves removing excess air from the boiler that can cause the boiler to function below par. To release the air, switch the unit off and identify the high point vent on the boiler (if it is steam), or the high point vent on the heating loop (if it is a hot water boiler). Open the vent until you hear air hissing out. Once water begins dripping out of the bleed valve, close it back up and dry off the area.
Are the Channels Insulated?
Naturally, if you live in an area where temperatures fall below freezing, the external condensate pipes can freeze. As an inbuilt safety measure, the boiler will automatically shut down if this happens. To prevent frozen pipes, make sure all the exposed parts are properly insulated. Additionally, you can regulate the heat on a lower scale when the temperatures are extremely low.
Preparing Your Boiler for Winter
Preparing your boiler for winter is an essential part of regular maintenance. Not only does it ensure that the unit is in good working order, but it also keeps everyone in the building safe. If you’re looking for boiler maintenance companies near you, contact us at Bay City Boiler.
