How to Tell if Your Boiler Needs Repair

Some signs that your boiler needs repair are obvious; however, not all are. For some of these signs you will need to be aware of what you should be looking out for. By paying attention to the signs that your boiler needs a repair, you could save hundreds to even thousands on a more serious repair or even a replacement. So, here are some signs your boiler needs repair.

Yellow Flame Instead of Blue

What color is your boiler flame? Generally, your flame should be blue. If your boiler flame appears yellow, this could be a sign of a dangerous concentration of carbon monoxide. This gas is both colorless and odorless.

This is an issue you must take seriously as exposure to carbon monoxide can cause long term breathing difficulty and even death. A low level of carbon monoxide can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. So, if you notice any of these symptoms, immediately seek help.

Strange Noises

If something is wrong with your boiler, it may make unusual noises, and this is likely the easiest sign to pick up. Generally, your boiler makes an audible noise, but you probably don’t even notice it anymore. So, if you do notice a noise, chances are it’s unusual, and the boiler is in need of some maintenance.

Heats Up Slow or Slower

If your boiler isn’t heating up your home as well as it used to, then it is probably time for a repair or at least a tune-up. Performing regular maintenance is always important, even if nothing turns out to be wrong yet.

Routine maintenance will prevent your boiler from developing any severe issues that may require costly repairs or premature replacements. Also, it will lower your energy bills by keeping your furnace at maximum performance.

Emitting a Faint Smell

An odd smell originating from your boiler means something is definitely wrong. This may mean your boiler is leaking gas, such as carbon monoxide, into your home. This may also mean your burner is not properly mixing or combusting the fuel in your boiler. Black marks around the casing are a sure sign of a leak as well as a pressing issue that needs taken care of by a professional.

Energy Bills Increase

An increase in your energy bill may mean the cost of natural gas went up without warning, or it may mean your boiler is running inefficiently. Taking a look at the cost of your fuel may show you whether or not this is true.

If your boiler is taking more fuel than it previously did to keep your house warm, then it is time to schedule a repair or tune-up. This will help your energy bill a lot more in the long term than just turning down the thermostat.

Conclusion

Identifying the signs that your boiler needs a repair can save you a lot of money down the line on repair and replacement. So, pay attention if your boiler shows any of these signs. You may save yourself not only time and money but also some cold nights. Contact Us
For more information about whether your boiler is in need of repairs or to schedule, an inspection call us at 781-520-1212 or connect with us on Facebook.