Having a boiler is great because it produces heat in such a unique and efficient way. When you turn on your boiler arm for heat, the results are nearly instant. However, a boiler is not without its risks. We have many homeowners who ask us about boiler explosions.
While it’s very uncommon for a boiler to explode, it is a possibility. Ideally, you want to schedule service for boiler repair in Staten Island, NY, as a way of preventing boiler problems, including explosions. You can keep reading to learn more about the common signs of boiler problems so that you can stay ahead of a boiler explosion and prevent it from happening completely.
Boiler Risks
Before we talk about the signs that can indicate your boiler may be close to exploding, we need to back up and talk about the reason that your boiler might explode. The primary reason that your boiler may explode is because of overheating. Your boiler has a completely unique design and needs to be airtight and pressurized for the best results.
The problem with this pressurized system is that too much pressure can build up inside when the right conditions are in place. With nowhere else to go, this pressure builds and builds until it creates enough strain for your boiler to explode. The good news is that this is completely preventable by paying attention to your boiler operation and taking some preventative measures.
Signs of Overheating
There are three common signs that can point to your boiler overheating. You should pay attention to any one of them individually, but if you have all three signs then there is a greater chance that your boiler will overheat. First, you want to pay attention to the color of the water inside the boiler. If it is discolored, that points to problems. It’s also a bad sign if your boiler begins to smell bad. It may be the boiler itself or it may be the water inside of the boiler. Either way, bad odors are never normal.
The last sign that can indicate that your boiler is under too much pressure is hearing unusual noises. You may hear pinging or kettling sounds inside of the boiler lines. Of course, any other unusual noises you hear coming from your boiler are also a reason for concern. If you ever have doubts and feel like something is wrong with your boiler, give us a call to schedule service. It’s always better to be safe.
Preventing Boiler Problems
The good news is that you can prevent boiler problems by taking a few preventative steps. There is a pressure gauge attached to your boiler, and you may be tempted to set it close to the maximum setting for better results. However, this increases your risk. Instead, lower the pressure settings slightly so they are not near the maximum pressure.
You also want to make sure that you replace the sacrificial anode rod inside of your boiler when it is needed. The sacrificial anode rod can usually last for around three years or so before needing to be replaced. The rod serves the purpose of rusting–or sacrificing itself, as the name implies–so that the inside of your boiler does not rust instead. When this rod wears down, it increases the chances of your boiler rusting and needing to be replaced sooner.
It’s also a good idea to turn your boiler off occasionally, especially during the summer. This can give your boiler a break from running around the clock and lessen the chances of overheating. When you turn your boiler off, it helps to alleviate some of the pressure building inside. You can also turn your boiler off at night while your family is sleeping. Then when you wake up the next morning you can turn it back on again.
It is also important to schedule professional service with our team at least once a year to check up on your boiler. This is a great way to stay ahead of any problems. Our team can inspect your boiler inside and out and make minor tweaks to ensure that none of the above problems are ever a concern for your home and family.
Serving Staten Island’s Heating and A/C needs since 1955. Contact the Bob Mims team to schedule an appointment for your boiler service today!
