10 Most Common Boiler Problems
At B & W Heating and Cooling, we respond to calls from Godfrey, Illinois residents about boiler problems every day. We’ve made a list of the most common boiler problems we receive and the possible reasons for the problem:Kettling
If you hear an odd, rumbling sound coming from your boiler, it may come from sludge or limescale accumulating on the heat exchanger. Kettling restricts water flow in the heat exchanger, causing water to overheat, boil and steam. If you suspect kettling, call us today and we’ll flush out the system, remove deposits and ensure your boiler is functioning properly again.
Dripping and Leaking
A broken pressure valve, pump seal or other internal component is usually responsible for leaking. Leakage around the tank or pipes may be due to corrosion or a system that was not fitted correctly.
No Hot Water or Heat
Low water level, thermostat failure, broken airlocks, and diaphragms or malfunctioning motorized valves are a few reasons your boiler may not have hot water or heat.
Condensate Pipe is Frozen
Boilers may display a warning notification if the condensate pipe has frozen. Sometimes, applying a hot water bottle or warm cloth over the pipe may help. If you feel unsafe thawing a frozen condensate pipe, please call a technician for immediate assistance.
No Pilot Light
Pilot lights that keep going out could indicate a thermocouple failure or deposit accumulation preventing the pilot light from remaining lit.
Low Pressure
Water leaks, broken pressure relief valve or radiators that have recently been bled are a few reasons for your boiler to have low pressure.
Whistling, Banging and/or Gurgling Sounds
Older boilers emitting these noises may be on the verge of a pump failure. While these types of noises could be kettling, it’s best to call us for help determining the exact cause of the noises.
Heat Turning On and Off By Itself
This is almost always a thermostat problem. Check to see if the thermostat is “on” and if settings are correct before contacting us about having your thermostat replaced.
Boiler Switching Off
Closed valve restricting water flow, thermostat failure, circulating pump malfunctioning or low water pressure could be causing your boiler to switch off.
Radiators Failing to Heat Up
Air or sludge build-up in the system may prevent the heating of radiators. We can fix this type of boiler problem by flushing or chemically cleaning the system.
Our technicians rely on Rheem, the leading manufacturer of boilers and HVAC equipment in the U.S., to replace boilers and their components.
