Homeowners expect to have a reliably warm home when they have a boiler. When this essential appliance stops working, you can feel frustrated and freezing cold if temperatures outside are less than favorable. Fortunately, we’ve compiled 10 common boiler problems that you might face so you’re prepared for numerous scenarios. After reading, you can contact Hodgkins’ reliable heating repair team, JC Heating & Cooling, Inc, to schedule an immediate service appointment, including for boiler repair or replacement services.
1. The Boiler Is Leaking Water
Your boiler system could leak from the pump seal or pressure relief valve, requiring a repair service appointment to resolve it. Leaks may also occur from a connection issue or faulty part. Sometimes, corrosion can cause your pipes or tank to leak; you must address it quickly to prevent water damage from spreading throughout your property and costing you hundreds of dollars in damages and repairs.
The primary reasons for boiler leaks are:
- Corrosion and rust
- Bad connections
- Broken or worn parts
- Pump seal problems
- Excessive pressure
- Poor-quality installation
If you have a boiler leak, don’t hesitate to call your local plumbing team today for an appointment!
2. Your Boiler Has Low Water Pressure
You can check out your boiler’s pressure gauge and see what the reading says. If it’s one or lower, the most common cause is probably a leak. However, other reasons for low pressure include an expansion vessel, pressure release valve, or seal problem.
Attempting to repair your boiler without the right training and tools is dangerous, so the first thing you should do is contact a trusted plumber in your area to identify the source of the low pressure. They can safely address any internal issues and restore your appliance to its normal condition.
3. Strange Noises Coming From the Boiler
You shouldn’t expect to hear a ton of noise when your boiler is in operation. A little bit of noise is acceptable, but loud sounds are atypical and suggest something is wrong with the appliance. Weird sounds like whistling, banging, and gurgling are some of the most typical boiler problems and warrant the need for expert assistance.
4. The Boiler Won't Heat or Produce Hot Water
When your boiler doesn’t heat up or provide hot water, several causes are possible. The best way to get to the bottom of this problem is to call a certified and experienced professional for assistance. Some reasons for a cold boiler include the following:
- Low water pressure
- Thermostat problems
- Broken airlock or diaphragm
- Faulty motorized valves
- A decreased water supply from leaks
5. The Pilot Light Repeatedly Switches Off
An old boiler could have thermocouple trouble that leads to a turned-off pilot light. Additionally, you could have a problem with your gas supply, deposit buildup, or a strong breeze. Most boiler systems today operate electronically, but this is still one of the most common boiler problems for homeowners with gas boilers.
Persistent pilot light problems might present the perfect opportunity to get rid of your old boiler system. You could upgrade to a more advanced, affordable, and energy-efficient system that can meet your property’s heating demands. Book a consultation with a trusted professional today!
6. The Boiler Constantly Turns On and Off
Does your boiler turn on and off frequently? Several scenarios can lead to this problem, but here are four of the most common reasons:
- A bad pump
- Frozen condensate pipe
- Broken or damaged thermostat
- Poor-quality water pressure
7. The Condensate Pipe Is Frozen
Frozen condensate pipes are a common issue during cold weather and create frustrating blockages. If the pipe in question resides in a cold area with no warmth, it’s more likely to freeze, causing your boiler to falter and stop working properly. Some homeowners carefully pour boiled water over the pipe to quickly remove the frost, but you can also contact a local heating and cooling professional for a more dependable solution.
8. The Radiator Is Producing Cold Spots
A boiler radiator might produce cold patches if it’s dirty or the boiler wasn’t set properly. Air pockets can create cold spots, so you’ll need to bleed them to return the radiator to normal. If cleaning and bleeding the radiator doesn’t resolve the issue, drop a line to your local HVAC team.
9. The Boiler Has No Power
When your boiler won’t turn on at all, check that all connections are intact and no issues are present with your fuse box or breaker. If other appliances in your home are working without a problem, the issue could stem from your boiler. You might have ill-fitting connections, a worn-down system in need of repairs, or some other issue only an experienced technician can fix, so don’t hesitate to contact an HVAC expert for help.
10. A Complete System Breakdown or Failure
A boiler will eventually break down and stop working completely when it’s reached the end of its life. You’ll then need to choose from a wide selection of energy-efficient residential gas boilers that should last you eight years or longer, depending on your water quality and maintenance.
As soon as you believe something is wrong with your system, you should call for repair services. Keeping up with repairs and routine maintenance can protect your boiler investment and make your appliance last longer. However, boiler replacement is still inevitable and could help you experience a more energy-efficient, money-saving system.
Contact JC Heating & Cooling, Inc for Reliable Boiler Repair Services in Hodgkins, IL, Today!
Now that you’re aware of the most common boiler problems, learn about how a boiler heats a house and other related topics. JC Heating & Cooling, Inc supplies superior heating and cooling services to residents of Hodgkins, Illinois, and the surrounding areas. We can examine your boiler and determine whether your system will benefit most from repair, maintenance, or replacement services — all for a fair and honest price.
Contact JC Heating & Cooling, Inc today by calling (708) 505-7983 or schedule a service appointment online!
