If your boiler is making strange noises, you are likely understandably nervous and may be worried that it may just burst. The fact is that bursting is highly unlikely, but you may have reason to worry that something may be wrong. You should call in the professionals to have the issue diagnosed, but while you are waiting for them to arrive, you can try to determine what the likely cause is. Here are a few of the most common reasons that your boiler could be making strange sounds.
Kettling
If your boiler is making clanking or clunking noises, this is likely caused by “kettling.” This issue is caused by limescale buildup on the inside of your boiler between your heat exchanger, which is the part in which the gas heats up to transfer the warmth into the tank, and the water.
As the water against the limescale begins to boil up and through the limescale, it causes these noises. This issue may not be an emergency, but it should be quickly solved because the scale will reduce the boiler’s efficiency by making it harder for the heat exchanger to transfer heat. It can also lead to damage inside the boiler unit and can cause a lot more cost down the line in order to repair the system.
Whistling
This issue may perhaps be the most alarming sounding issue that can occur with your boiler, but the problem is likely not as serious as it sounds. Generally, whistling sounds are caused by air trapped inside your boiler, or it may be related to kettling. Less commonly, it may be caused by a partial clog in one or more of the pipes or a jump in water pressure caused by your system overheating.
Gurgling
Gurgling sounds are often the result of air trapped in your boiler. In order to prevent corrosion, your boiler should not have any air inside of it. However, when leaks occur in the plumbing or air is not properly drained after maintenance, it can enter the system.
If air is entering the system because of a leak, it must be addressed quickly to avoid potentially serious damage both to your home and system. If the issue is only air trapped in the system, this can generally be quickly solved with only a short visit from a professional.
Final Thoughts
If you hear strange noises from your boiler, don’t panic. Though these should be quickly diagnosed by a professional, chances are that the issue is not dangerous. However, keep in mind that repairs should only be performed by a professional. This is particularly true for gas boilers which can only be worked on by certified professionals.
Contact Us
If your gas boiler is making strange noises, then contact J Griffin Heating & Plumbing for help diagnosing and repairing any problems. Our experienced heating and plumbing technicians have more than thirty years of experience helping home and business owners. Call us at 781-520-1212 and connect with us on Facebook.