7 Boiler Problems & How To Fix Them?
Boiler problems can be frustrating and costly to repair, but early detection and timely maintenance can help prevent many issues from occurring. Some common problems that can occur with boilers include lack of heat, leakages, and strange noises. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors such as dirty filters, low water levels, or a faulty thermostat. While some boiler problems may require the expertise of a professional, there are also several things that homeowners can do to troubleshoot and fix minor issues on their own.
By understanding the most common boiler problems and knowing how to fix them, homeowners can keep their boilers running smoothly and efficiently. Here are 7 common boiler problems and their solutions:
1. Pilot light keeps going out
The pilot light is a small gas burner that's permanently kept alight on your boiler. If the pilot light keeps going out, it's an issue that could be caused by a build-up on the gas nozzle or a draught blowing the flame out. On the other hand, a broken thermocouple can also stop the gas supply. The thermocouple is a safety device that detects temperature changes in the boiler. It monitors the change of the pilot light and knows when the pilot light goes out.
What to do?
First, check if the other gas appliances in your home are working. If not, contact your gas supplier. If the gas supply is okay, try to reignite the pilot light by referring to the manufacturer's instruction manual. In case you have lost the instruction manual, you can always find it by searching the website of the boiler manufacturer. This problem is more common in older boilers since modern boilers don't have pilot lights but are ignited electronically. If the problem persists, you may consider installing a new boiler.
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2. Boiler is making gurgling, whistling, or banging noises
Is your boiler making whistling, vibrating, gurgling, or banging noises? The most likely cause is air in the system. On the other hand, a failing pump or low water pressure can also be the cause. If you hear a noise coming from the heating system, you shouldn't ignore it since there's a fault. In fact, the potential fault can vary depending on where the noise is coming from and the type of sound.
What to do?
Check the connectors or adjust the settings of the boiler if there is a vibrating or humming noise. In fact, the noise can be a symptom of a more serious fault. If you are not sure, you should contact a supplier. On the other hand, if the pipes are gurgling, you may bleed the radiators. But a frozen condensate pipe can also cause such a noise.
Knocking can usually be caused by the contraction and expansion of the heating pipes. It is normal, but you should check to see if the pipes are not fixed on the floorboards.
3. The boiler isn't heating or no hot water
The boiler is a key part of your home. In fact, you should be able to rely on your boiler for heating and hot water for your home. There are a wide variety of causes for your boiler not heating or not producing hot water. Many of these faults may require a replacement part.
What to do?
There isn't a single cause for this problem. First, check to see if there are no issues with the boiler's thermostat or pressure. In case there are no such problems, you should call a professional to repair the boiler.
4. Boiler is leaking
If your boiler is leaking, there can be many causes for the problem depending on where the drip or leak is coming from. A leaking system could be a result of a broken component like a valve or seal. On the other hand, it can also be a result of corrosion.
What to do?
Don't try to fix a faulty unit yourself. Call a professional for the job.
5. Low boiler pressure
If the boiler's pressure gauge reads lower than one, there might be a problem with the boiler.
What to do?
First, check for leaks and if there is a leak, call a professional to fix it. If there isn't a leak, try to re-pressurize the system by referring to the instruction manual of the manufacturer. If there isn't any improvement, there may be a failed component in the system. The best thing is to call a professional.
6. Radiators are cold
If the radiators are partially warm, some of them may not be working as they should. Air in the central heating system can be a cause for this.
What to do?
Bleed the radiators and if there isn't any improvement, the system may require flushing that should be carried out by a central heating engineer.
7. Boiler is kettling
If the boiler sounds like a boiling kettle, scaly material or build-up of sludge may be restricting the water flow.
What to do?
Call an experienced professional to get the unit professionally flushed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, boiler problems can be frustrating and costly, but regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues can help prevent major issues and extend the life of your boiler. It is important to work with a licensed and experienced professional to ensure that any repairs or replacements are done safely and effectively.
