Despite the popularity of other heating systems, boilers still remain common in many Canadian homes, accounting for 8% of home heating systems nationwide. With so many households relying on boilers for their primary heating, homeowners need to know these key boiler maintenance tips.
At Weiss-Johnson, we’ve been setting the standard for HVAC excellence in Edmonton for almost 50 years. From the first chill of winter to summer’s last sweltering days, we’re here for you. In this blog, we’ll be delving into boiler maintenance 101 and exploring the steps you can take to increase your boiler’s lifespan. Read on to find out more!
#1: Bleed Your Radiators at the Start of Fall
Over time, it’s common for radiators to work less efficiently due to trapped air within them. After periods of heavy usage, air from the boiled water within the radiator gets trapped. Fortunately, radiator bleeding is straightforward and can be done with ease. We recommend this to be done during the fall before you start heating your home regularly.
Homeowners can bleed their radiators themselves with this short guide:
- Turn off your boiler, and make sure enough time has passed that your radiators are cool.
- Protect your floors by placing a towel underneath your radiator.
- Locate the bleed valve on your radiator. Typically, it should be somewhere on the top corner of it.
- Use a radiator key, which can be bought at a hardware store. Many newer radiators will also take a philips-head screw driver.
- Insert your key or screwdriver into the bleed valve.
- Listen for a hissing sound as the air escapes from the radiator.
- After 30 seconds to a minute, the air will all bleed out and the hot water will begin to rise to normal levels.
- Once water begins to trickle out, insert your screwdriver or key back into the bleed valve and close the valve. Make sure it’s tightened.
Homeowners should bleed their radiators at least once a year, preferably before winter. If you’re not comfortable bleeding your radiator yourself, we have you covered! Simply call a certified HVAC professional, like Weiss-Johnson, to help.
#2: Flush Your Boiler To Reduce Buildup
One of the most essential boiler maintenance tasks for ensuring a long service life is flushing. Edmonton’s water is moderately hard, with a hardness level of around 165mg/L. As such, homes with boilers are especially susceptible to mineral buildup, particularly calcium. Over time, this accumulation of minerals creates a hardened layer in the boiler, making it more difficult for the boiler to work efficiently.
If left unattended, this buildup can reduce your boiler’s lifespan. In order to prevent this, have a certified HVAC professional descale your boiler annually.
#3: Turn On Your Heating Once a Month
It’s incredibly easy to forget about your home’s essential boiler maintenance during the warmer months. Fortunately, running your system is one of the easiest ways to ensure everything is in proper working order. After all, the last thing you want is your boiler failing when winter inevitably comes.
Simply turn on your heating for a short duration, around ten minutes, once every month.
#4: Schedule Professional Boiler Maintenance
The best way to ensure your system maintains a long service life is with comprehensive, professional boiler maintenance. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for some HVAC companies to pass off minimal inspections, like basic readings and gauge testing on gas valves, as full maintenance. While those measurements are important, they don’t tell the whole story. In order to get the best service possible, make sure to reach out to a reliable HVAC company with a proven track record.
At Weiss-Johnson, no one does HVAC like we do. We’ve been a trusted household name in Edmonton since 1977. Today, 1 in 6 new homes in the city have an HVAC system installed by our team, and we’ve proudly served over 100,000 satisfied customers. If you’re looking for scheduled boiler maintenance, you’re in good hands with us.
Secure Your Winter Comfort with Weiss-Johnson
The trust your grandparents and parents placed in Weiss-Johnson still holds strong today. Don’t get caught in the cold; schedule your boiler maintenance today. Reach out to our team to receive care beyond compare for all your HVAC and plumbing needs.
