Anyone who’s lived through a Minnesota winter knows the value of a fully functioning boiler. Heating and hot water aren’t luxuries here, they’re absolute necessities. But because boilers are working overtime during the winter, they sometimes struggle or give up entirely. This tends to happen after a period in which the boiler hasn’t been in use. If you notice any of the following problems, you should look into boiler repair in Grand Rapids, MN, right away.
1. Lack of heat or hot water. This is the most obvious and most common boiler issue, and the one that probably causes the most discomfort. The water level may be low, there may be mineral deposits in the tank or there may be a problem with the thermostat.
2. Leaking or dripping. This affects the water pressure in the unit. While large leaks are usually obvious, smaller leaks can be very hard to detect. Leaks can be caused by a number of problems, including pipe corrosion.
3. Unusual noises. If you hear loud bangs, whistles or strange gurgling noises, there may be air in the system or a problem with the water pressure.
4. Cold radiator. Almost as obvious as a lack of hot water, this is caused by a defective pump, blocked or corroded pipework or sludge buildup. The system may need to be flushed to loosen blockages.
5. Loss of pressure. Generally this is caused by a water leak, but the pressure relief valve may also be in need of replacement.
6. Thermostat problems. A thermostat that turns on and off seemingly at random or seems generally inaccurate will cause your whole system to run improperly. The thermostat may be old or dying, or it may have some electrical problems.
7. Kettling problems. A buildup of lime scale on the heat exchange usually causes this. Rumbling noises may be telling you that there’s a kettling issue going on.
8. Pilot light is out. The pilot light may be getting blown out by a draft of air. The gas supply may also be insufficient, which is generally caused by a broken thermocouple.
9. Frozen condensate pipe. When it’s especially cold outside, the condensation in the pipe can freeze, which causes the condensate to back up into the boiler.
10. Boiler switches itself off. This can be caused by a number of issues, ranging from thermostat problems and low water pressure to a total lack of water flow. There may be air the system, or there may be a closed valve.
These are just some of the most common issues people experience with their boilers. In some cases, you may be able to do these repairs yourself, but if you have even the slightest uncertainty about how to proceed, or if you just don’t have the time, patience or confidence to handle the repairs on your own, contact a reputable company with experience handling boiler repair in Grand Rapids, MN. A professional is much less likely to make the problem worse. Let an expert keep you warm and happy this winter by ensuring your boiler is up and running.