Boilers are expensive appliances, so you need to make sure you care for your current model as well as you can. While boilers may seem complicated and hard to understand, there are a few simple maintenance tips that anyone can follow! Keep reading to find out how to care your boiler!
Importance of Boiler Maintenance
Before we dive into the tips, it's essential to understand why boiler maintenance is so important. Neglecting your boiler's maintenance can lead to a host of problems, including decreased efficiency, increased energy bills, and even potential safety hazards. A poorly maintained boiler can also result in carbon monoxide poisoning, a potentially fatal condition.
Tips for maintaining your boiler
1. Bleed your radiators
Bleeding your radiators helps to keep your system working efficiently, preventing your boiler from working harder than it needs to. You can bleed your radiators in minutes, and it only requires an old towel and a radiator key. Cold spots are caused by trapped air in your system, so you need to bleed your radiators to release this air.
2. Lag your pipes
Your outdoor pipes have the potential to burst in the winter months if it is cold enough for them to freeze over. Again, this causes your boiler to overwork itself and will lead to a very costly repair. To protect your pipes, you simply need to slip on some ready-made pipe lagging. It can be brought for just a few pounds and fitted in minutes, offering years of protection.
3. Check your boiler pressure
Keeping an eye on your boiler pressure is a good way to be one step ahead of any problems. The ideal pressure is between 1 and 1.5 bar. If you notice the pressure gauge fall below this, you will need to top it up using the instructions from your manufacturer. If it regularly dips, you may need to call out a gas engineer to take a closer look.
4. Service your boiler
Getting your boiler serviced each year is the best way to maximise its lifespan and keep it working for as long as possible. Servicing helps to make sure it is working safely and efficiently, as well as finding any issues while they are still small. This reduces the risk of a breakdown and saves you money in the long run!
5. Check Water Pressure
Low water pressure can cause your boiler to stop working altogether. Check your boiler's water pressure regularly and ensure that it's at the recommended level. You can refer to your boiler's user manual for more information on recommended water pressure levels.
6. Turn off the boiler during summer
If you're not using your heating system during the summer months, it's best to turn off your boiler to save on energy bills. This also gives your boiler a break, preventing wear and tear and potential problems.
7. Keep the Boiler Area Clean and Tidy
Keeping the area around your boiler clean and tidy can help prevent any potential hazards. Ensure that there is no clutter or debris around the boiler, and that the area is well-ventilated. Also, ensure that the boiler is accessible and not obstructed by any objects.
8. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal, and installing carbon monoxide detectors can help prevent this. Install detectors in your home, especially near your boiler, to ensure that you're alerted in case of any potential problems.
Need a boiler repair or service in Walsall?
We offer a range of boiler services, such as repairs, replacements and servicing, covering a 10-mile radius of Bloxwich. This includes Perrybarr, Walsall, Cannock, Stafford, Bloxwich and Aldridge. Are you looking for a team to help with your boiler maintenance? Look no further than our gas engineers! We are always on hand to help, so don't hesitate to get in touch. Simply give us a call on 01922 662840 or email us at homeheatingwalsall@gmail.com. We hope to hear from you soon!
