Boilers are popular with many homeowners because one unit can do the work of a combined heating system and water heater setup. To optimize the boiler’s heat distribution throughout your Delaware residence, it is important to keep your equipment running properly and to identify any problems that may exist before outdoor temperatures plummet. By taking proactive steps and preparing your boiler for winter, you can avoid costly equipment breakdowns and help your family feel warm and comfortable when spending time indoors.
Remove Objects in the Area
You should remove any objects surrounding your boiler’s floor space to ensure that the unit’s air intakes are not blocked by storage or other items. It is especially important to avoid placing flammable objects near the equipment that can cause a fire hazard. Keep paper products and cardboard boxes far away from your boiler so that they don’t ignite, and make sure that the unit is dust-free.
Inspect for Component Blockages
Your boiler’s flue needs to be free of blockages so that the pipe can bring fresh air to the unit and direct fumes away. Any obstructions in your boiler’s flue or outlets can cause exhaust gases to accumulate, which can be dangerous for residents and affect your boiler’s performance. While checking for blockages, it is advisable to do a spot check on flue outlets to ensure that their joints are properly assembled.
Check the Fuel Source
Before you use your boiler this winter, it is necessary to make sure that there are no problems with the unit’s fuel source. This is necessary whether your boiler heats oil, natural gas, or propane. Determine whether there are any leaks in the valves or piping, and check that the fuel source is at an adequate level.
Clean or Replace the Filters
Dirty filters can cause your boiler to overheat, so it is a good idea to inspect the filter for dust and debris before using your unit. You can clean electrostatic filters with a vacuum cleaner to remove debris and then wipe them with a soft microfiber cloth dampened by warm water. If you have disposable fiberglass filters in your unit, replace old filters with new ones before winter arrives to keep the boiler running smoothly when temperatures drop.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
To protect your family’s well-being, it is important to use a carbon monoxide alarm in conjunction with your boiler to alert you if a leak occurs. This is an especially important safeguard if your unit is an older model. A carbon monoxide leak typically has no smell, so installing an alarm can give you peace of mind even before you start running your boiler this winter.
Examine the Burner
You should check all burner components before using the unit and replace parts that appear damaged. Any signs that components are cracked, overheated, or warped are indications that the parts need replacing. The moving components should be free of any obstructions, so pay special attention to the areas surrounding the burner’s shutter, oil nozzles, diffuser, and damper.
If household objects block your boiler or dirt and debris blocks its components, your unit runs the risk of underperforming or becoming a fire hazard. Checking your equipment for clean filters and an optimum level of fuel is easy to do and requires little time. When you take precautions and actively perform the steps needed to prepare your boiler for winter, you can gain peace of mind knowing that your unit should effectively run and generate the heat your family enjoys during the coldest months.
When a boiler is neglected and doesn’t receive yearly maintenance, it can underperform or may even pose a safety risk inside your home. First Class HVAC has been providing expert heating system maintenance in Delaware, including the counties of Sussex and Kent, and in the Delmarva area of Maryland for more than 40 years. Contact us today for the installation of a new boiler model or schedule an appointment for boiler maintenance that can keep your unit running at peak performance this winter.