Boilers are a great way to heat your home, especially in a place like Edmonton, where it snows heavily during winter. This makes it quite an essential component of your home, and hence, you need to take care of the boiler properly by doing regular maintenance and service. Over time, your boiler will start showing its age; the giveaway are some signs that you need to watch out for, like.
Increased Energy Bills
If you notice a sudden spike in your electricity bills, and can’t find a possible explanation for the same, then you should check your boiler. This is usually caused by a severe problem in the boiler system, and you should get it checked as soon as possible, to avoid any further damage.
Signs of Leaks
A boiler can leak three things, water, hydronic fluid, or oil. This can cause significant damage to the boiler itself, and if not taken care of properly, it can even lead to structural damage to your home. Hence, if you notice any rust coloured puddle or dark oily patches on or around the boiler, then you should contact a plumber to get it fixed.
Strange Sounds
Your boiler, if broken or damaged, can make a variety of sounds. Usually, a clunking, whirring or banging noise is caused by a worn-out pump or fan that needs to be replaced. On the other hand, whistling or gurgling is caused either by low water pressure. Whistling or gurgling noises can also be caused by kettling of your boiler, where debris gets stuck in the heat exchanger, and water begins to steam or boil within.
Yellow Flame
Your boiler flame should always be blue; if you notice a change in colour, especially yellow, then you should immediately call a plumber, and evacuate your house quickly. This is a sign that the fuel is not burning correctly, and this can lead to an emission of carbon monoxide, a colourless gas. Such carbon monoxide leaks are harmful, and should not be overlooked as they can lead to death. Another sign of uneven burning is a black soot deposit on the boiler casing.
Foul Smell
Just like the yellow flame, the uneven burning of the fuel can also cause a strong odour. This odour is caused by mercaptan that is added by the manufacturer to the otherwise odourless natural gas. If you are hit by a sharp smell, then you should evacuate your house and call a plumber as soon as possible, as even this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Once you notice any of these signs with your boiler, you must contact a reputable, experienced plumbing service provider to take a look at it. Overlooking such problems can be stressful and expensive, and in severe cases, it can lead to chronic health conditions and even death (in the case of carbon monoxide poisoning).
If you notice any signs, or if you believe your boiler is starting to fail, you should give us a call at 780-451-5666. Our experienced technicians will offer you the best solutions to your problems. Contact us now!
