If you have a hydronic heating system, then you have a hot water boiler. The way these systems work is by distributing hot water throughout the home through your pipes. This in turn brings heat to all of the rooms through a radiator. Depending on whether you have a newer or an older model home, you could have either a steel radiator or baseboards, or one that is made from cast iron. While the cast iron radiators are older, they do look great, and can add a lot of character to any room. Hydronic heating systems are also used in homes that have radiant floor heating systems.
How are Boilers Fueled?
Boilers are fueled in a few different ways. You could have a boiler that uses natural gas or propane, which is known as a gas-fired boiler. Some houses have boilers that are fueled with fuel-oil, and are called oil-fired boilers.
If you are looking for a boiler that will need the least amount of maintenance, your best bet is to have a gas-fired boiler. Boilers that are oil-fired need a lot more work, and you will probably find yourself needing boiler repair more often than if you have a gas-fired boiler.
Common Boiler Problems
Many problems can arise with boilers, and you could end up calling in a professional to take care of boiler repair. A lack of heat is the most common boiler problem. Here are the causes of this problem, and the steps that can be taken for boiler repair.
No heat is coming from the boiler. When this happens, there are a few causes, including:
- The boiler is not getting any power
- The boiler has low water levels
- The pilot light or electronic burner ignition is not working properly
- The thermostat isn’t working properly
When you are not getting heat from the boiler, the following repairs may be necessary:
- It could be as simple as a blown fuse, which you can easily replace yourself.
- If the water level is low, you won’t be getting enough pressure. Add enough water so that the level is half full.
- If you have a natural gas boiler, the control valve must be closed.
- If the pilot light is out, simply re-start it.
- If there is no pilot light, you will have to check the electronic ignition system.
- Make sure the thermostat is in heat mode and is set to the right temperature.
- Move the thermostat setting up or down a few degrees to see if the heat comes on.
It is usually no problem to fix the simple problems on your own. When you have other issues that you can’t fix yourself, it is best to call in a professional in boiler repair. If you live in Ohio, you can contact the experts at Jennings Heating and Cooling Co., Inc. for all of your boiler repair needs, or any issues that you may have with your home heating or air conditioning system. Call toll-free at 1-800-588-1095.
