From the stresses of work to the challenges posed by family life, it can be easy to overlook the importance of boiler maintenance. This is particularly true if you own a relatively new, A-rated boiler, as these units are renowned for their efficiency, longevity and ability to provide an energy-efficient source of heating. However, it’s important to proactively maintain your boiler as a homeowner, and here are some tips to help you achieve this.
Our Top 6 Boiler Maintenance Tips
1. Have your Boiler Serviced Annually
One of the most crucial steps in boiler maintenance is scheduling an annual inspection by a professional technician. This proactive approach allows an expert to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems. During the inspection, the technician will thoroughly examine the boiler's components, such as the heat exchanger, burner, controls, and safety devices.
They'll also check for any signs of wear and tear that could compromise the boiler's efficiency or safety. By investing in an annual inspection, you not only ensure your boiler's optimal performance but also extend its lifespan.
2. Have your Heating System Power Flushed
Next up is the power flush, which is another specialist service that thoroughly cleans your heating system and enables it to run as efficiently as possible. But how exactly does this work?
In simple terms, a power flush utilises robust cleansing agents to remove any sludge, dirt and debris that may have accumulated in your heating system over time. Whilst this type of service is only recommended every five or 10 years on average, it can make a big difference to your boiler and enable it to operate more efficiently.
3. Check the Pilot Light
For those with gas boilers, regularly inspecting the pilot light is crucial. The pilot light should burn with a steady blue flame. If you notice any flickering or a different colour flame, it's a sign of a potential issue with the combustion process. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate incomplete combustion, which can produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas. If you observe any irregularities with the pilot light, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Contact a professional technician immediately to assess and address the problem.
4. Clean or Replace Filters
If your boiler has filters, it's essential to clean or replace them according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Filters help trap dust and debris that can otherwise enter the boiler and affect its efficiency. Clogged or dirty filters can reduce the airflow to the boiler's burners, leading to inefficient combustion. This, in turn, results in higher energy consumption and potential damage to the boiler's components. Regular filter maintenance ensures that your boiler operates smoothly and efficiently.
5. Insulate Pipes
Properly insulating the pipes connected to your boiler can significantly reduce heat loss and improve overall efficiency. When hot water or steam travels through uninsulated pipes, it can lose heat before reaching its destination, causing your boiler to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. By insulating these pipes, you minimize heat loss, allowing your boiler to operate more efficiently and reducing energy costs.
6. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Investing in a programmable thermostat can be a smart addition to your boiler system. These thermostats allow you to set specific temperature schedules throughout the day, optimizing your heating system's efficiency. For example, you can lower the temperature when you're not at home and raise it before your return, saving energy and reducing heating costs. Programmable thermostats also offer the convenience of remote control, so you can adjust your home's temperature from your smartphone or computer.
Call in your Local Plumbing and Heating Engineer
Whether you’re in need of an annual service or simply want to replace a faulty component, you’ll have to call on your local plumbing and heating engineer. For those of you who live in York and the surrounding areas, Armstrong Plumbing & Heating is a reputable and accredited brand that you can trust to manage all installation and repairs.
We’re experienced and are Gas Safe registered and fully insured, our accreditation also extended to cover LPG works. All of our work is covered by full public liability insurance too, so our customers have genuine peace of mind from the moment we arrive in your home.
To find out more about our service and the brands that we work with, give us a call today on 07834 168464 or 01904 373075. Or, email us at ben@armstrongplumbingandheating.co.uk and we’ll try to get back to you as soon as possible!
