We all lead busy lives, and sometimes we forget to schedule essential home maintenance tasks. One appointment that often slips through the cracks is boiler servicing. It’s easy to underestimate the importance of regular boiler maintenance, but neglecting it can lead to significant issues down the road. Your family’s safety may even be at risk.
At Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning, we know that life can get in the way, but we’re here to remind you about the importance of servicing your boiler at least on an annual basis.
In this blog, we’ll share more about why boilers need regular maintenance, what can happen if you skip servicing, and the benefits of joining Thiele’s Heating Maintenance Program.
Why Boilers Need Regular Maintenance
Boilers play a crucial role in providing warmth and comfort to your home, especially during the cold Indiana winters. However, like any mechanical system, they require regular care and attention to ensure they function efficiently and safely. Here are some key reasons why you need to have your boiler serviced regularly:
- Efficiency: Over time, boilers can accumulate dirt, debris, and sediment, hindering their efficiency. Regular maintenance involves cleaning and inspecting the system to ensure it operates at its optimal performance, saving you money on utility bills.
- Safety: Faulty boilers can pose potential safety hazards, such as carbon monoxide leaks (make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector installed!). Routine boiler service makes sure your boiler is operating safely.
- Prolonged Lifespan: Regular servicing can extend your boiler’s lifespan, delaying the need for a costly replacement.
- Warranty Compliance: Many boiler warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. If you don’t service your boiler, it may void your warranty, leaving you responsible for repair costs.
High-quality boilers have a long lifespan, typically ranging from 15 to 20 years when well-maintained. However, as various components age, your boiler could stop working properly. If your boiler has surpassed the 15-year mark or you haven’t upgraded it in the last decade, it’s highly recommended to consider replacing your old boiler with a new energy-efficient model.
Common Problems Caused By Skipping Your Boiler Servicing
Boiler problems often stem from neglecting regular maintenance and professional checkups, leading to several issues:
Pilot Lights and Ignition Problems
Boilers rely on pilot lights or electronic igniters to ignite the burner. Ignition problems can disrupt the entire system. Servicing your boiler involves cleaning these components, but if issues persist, replacement may be necessary.
Thermostat Troubles
A malfunctioning thermostat, if left unaddressed, can lead to a faulty boiler. It may cause irregular heating cycles, temperature extremes, and energy inefficiency. Routine maintenance includes checking and calibrating the thermostat to ensure proper functionality.
Water Leaks
Any water leak in a boiler is cause for concern. Older gas boilers are more prone to leaks due to aging connections and wear. Annual checkups can identify and repair leaks, averting severe issues. The pressure relief valve should also be inspected for potential leaks.
Circulator Pump Failures
The circulator pump is vital for distributing hot water to heating units. When it fails, you’ll experience uneven heating and may hear strange noises. Although circulator pumps typically last as long as the boiler, they can fail due to manufacturing defects or poor maintenance. Technicians can often replace the pump without requiring an entire boiler replacement.
Lime Scale and Mineral Deposit Build Up
Over time, mineral deposits and limescale accumulate in boilers, particularly in the heat exchanger. Neglecting their removal can lead to reduced water flow and a dangerous condition called “kettling,” where water boils excessively, causing pressure buildup. Regular maintenance includes descaling to prevent these problems.
Save Money with Regular Boiler Service
Regular boiler service is essential to prevent issues and ensure the safe operation of your heating system. It is generally recommended to have your boiler serviced annually, although specific intervals may vary depending on your boiler’s make and model. For Indianapolis homeowners, scheduling annual boiler services in late summer or fall before the cold season is ideal.
During your annual boiler service appointment, your technician will conduct a comprehensive inspection, checking for operational issues, leaks, or damaged components. Regular boiler servicing offers significant long-term cost savings compared to replacing the entire unit. It also enhances energy efficiency, reducing your energy bills. However, the most critical reason for routine servicing is safety.
A faulty gas boiler can leak dangerous gasses like carbon monoxide, a major cause of illness and death. Symptoms such as nausea and headaches are often misattributed to other illnesses. Regular boiler servicing detects issues that could lead to life threatening carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards.
For added protection and peace of mind, consider joining Thiele’s Annual “Rewards” Service Agreement Heating Maintenance Program. You’ll receive:
- Bi-annual preventative HVAC maintenance.
- Airflow temperature checks and adjustments.
- Air filter cleaning or replacement.
- Thermostat inspection and adjustment.
- Coil cleaning and debris removal from the condenser unit.
- A 15% discount on any needed parts and repairs, including the current visit.
Members of our maintenance plan have experienced immediate savings on costly repairs, sometimes up to $400!
Call Thiele, Your Trusted Partner for Boiler Service in Indianapolis
Don’t delay in scheduling your boiler servicing! Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you maintain your HVAC system. Whether you choose our maintenance program or prefer to schedule bi-annual maintenance on your own, we simply emphasize the importance of keeping your boiler in top condition. If you need a new boiler, we can help you pick a new gas or hot water boiler that is suited to your home and budget.
Contact us today to schedule service or inquire about our maintenance program.