Boilers are radiant heater systems that use a series of exchangers and electric pumps to push water through a heating system fueled by natural gas. The hot water or steam heat is transferred into the home’s living areas through a series of pipes and radiators placed throughout the home. This provides comfortable and even radiant heating throughout your space.

If your boiler produces hot water, your boiler can also be used as a water heater tank to store and provide hot water for showers, baths, hand washing, and dishwashing.

It’s important that you get the most out of your boiler through the winter months, and the professionals at Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. can help you do that with high-quality boiler service. While it’s easy to notice when your boiler is no longer heating your home properly, there are other signs that can help indicate your boiler is in need of repairs and, in some cases, replacement.

Signs You Need Boiler Repairs:

• Your boiler is leaking hot water
• Your boiler is making loud, unusual noises
• Your boiler has lost its energy efficiency and your energy costs are suddenly more expensive than they have been in the past few months
• Your house is no longer one temperature throughout, and the temperature varies throughout different rooms

Boiler noises can be a common concern for homeowners, and understanding their causes can help you address potential issues early on. Here’s a breakdown of some typical boiler noises, their possible causes, and how Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. can help resolve them when you call us for boiler repair.

Banging or Clanging Noises From the Boiler or Pipes

Banging or clanging sounds often result from water hammer, which occurs when water flows at high speed and suddenly stops or changes direction. This can happen due to poor installation or if the plumbing pipes are not properly secured. Additionally, sediment buildup in the boiler can create similar noises as the water heats up.

Our skilled technicians will inspect your boiler and plumbing systems to identify the source of the banging. We can secure loose pipes to minimize movement and vibration and flush out any sediment buildup to restore proper function.

Hissing Noises

Hissing sounds usually indicate that steam is escaping from the system. This can occur due to a malfunctioning pressure relief valve or a leak in the pipes. If the pressure is too high, the safety valve may release steam to prevent a dangerous situation.

Our heating and air conditioning team will check the pressure settings and inspect the pressure relief valve for proper operation. If there’s a leak, we will locate and repair it, ensuring that your boiler runs safely and efficiently.

Whistling or Squealing Noises

A whistling or squealing sound can be caused by air trapped in the heating system or a malfunctioning pump. If the water is not circulating properly, the pump may struggle, leading to these noises.

We will perform a thorough examination of your boiler to identify trapped air and bleed the radiators if necessary. If the pump is the issue, we can repair or replace it to ensure smooth operation.

Gurgling Noises

Gurgling sounds often indicate the presence of air in the system or low water levels. This can happen due to improper boiler maintenance, leading to air pockets forming in the pipes.

Our experts can bleed the radiators to release trapped air and check the water levels in the boiler. If low water levels are the cause, we will identify and fix any leaks to restore optimal performance.

Rumbling Noises From Within Your Boiler

Rumbling noises can be a sign of kettling, where limescale buildup on the heat exchanger causes overheating and creates steam bubbles. This can lead to serious damage if not addressed.

Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. will descale your boiler to remove any limescale buildup and ensure proper heating. Regular maintenance can help prevent kettling and prolong the life of your boiler.

Maintaining the correct operating pressure is crucial for the efficiency and safety of your boiler. The pressure affects not only how well your heating system works but also the lifespan of your boiler. Here’s what you need to know about the correct operating pressure, how to read it, and the potential boiler repair issues that can arise if the pressure is too high or too low.

What Is the Correct Operating Pressure?

For most residential boilers, the ideal operating pressure typically ranges between 1.0 and 1.5 bar (15 to 22 psi) when the system is cold. When the boiler is heating, the pressure can rise to approximately 1.5 to 2.5 bar (22 to 36 psi). It’s essential to refer to your boiler’s factory specifications, as the recommended pressure can vary depending on the model.

How to Read Your Boiler Pressure

Most boilers come equipped with a pressure gauge located on the front of the unit. This gauge displays the current pressure in bars or psi.

• The red zone typically indicates too high or too low pressure.
• The green zone indicates the optimal operating pressure range.

To ensure your boiler operates efficiently, regularly check the pressure gauge, particularly before and after heating cycles or boiler maintenance.

Low Boiler Pressure:

Low pressure can indicate several underlying issues, including:

• Leaks in the System: Water leaks from pipes, radiators, or the boiler itself can lead to decreased pressure.
• Air in the System: Trapped air can prevent the efficient circulation of water, causing pressure drops. This can often be resolved by bleeding the radiators.
• Faulty Pressure Relief Valve: If the pressure relief valve is malfunctioning, it may not retain the necessary pressure in the system.

High Boiler Pressure:

High pressure can be equally concerning and may stem from:

• Overfilling the System: Adding too much water can push the pressure above the recommended level. Always refer to your boiler’s manual for the correct filling procedure.
• Thermal Expansion: As water heats up, it expands. If the system does not have a functioning expansion tank, pressure can build up excessively.
• Faulty Pressure Gauge: Sometimes, a malfunctioning pressure gauge may inaccurately read high pressure, leading to unnecessary adjustments.

When to Seek Professional Boiler Repair Services for Pressure Issues

If you notice that your boiler pressure is consistently too high or too low, it’s essential to contact a qualified technician. At Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., our experienced team can diagnose the issue and perform any necessary boiler repairs or adjustments.

Deciding whether to repair or replace your boiler is an important decision that can affect your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term costs. While many issues can be repaired, there are times when replacing your boiler is a more practical solution. Here’s how to determine the best option, and how Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. can help guide you through the process.

When to Fix Your Boiler

Repairs can be the right choice if:

• The boiler is relatively new: Boilers typically last 10 to 15 years, so if your system is still within this range, a repair may extend its life without the need for a costly replacement.
• The problem is minor: Issues like a broken thermostat, a leaking valve, or air trapped in the system are often straightforward and cost-effective to repair.
• Your energy bills are stable: If your boiler is still operating efficiently and your energy bills haven’t spiked, a repair can keep your system running smoothly without significantly affecting your costs.

Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. will thoroughly inspect your system to identify the problem. If a repair is the best option, our skilled technicians will provide a reliable fix to restore your boiler’s performance.

When to Replace Your Boiler

In some cases, replacing your boiler is the better long-term solution, especially when:

• The boiler is over 15 years old: As boilers age, they become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. Investing in a new, energy-efficient boiler can save you money on repairs and lower your energy bills.
• Frequent repairs are needed: If you find yourself frequently calling for repairs, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new system rather than continually fixing an older one.
• Energy bills are rising: An inefficient boiler has to work harder to heat your home, resulting in higher energy consumption. A replacement with a high-efficiency model can reduce your energy costs and improve comfort.
• Major components are failing: If essential parts like the heat exchanger or pump are failing, replacement is often a more practical solution, as these repairs can be costly.

How We Can Help You Decide

At Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., we understand that each situation is unique. Our experienced technicians will assess the condition of your boiler and discuss your options with you. We’ll provide honest recommendations based on factors like the age of your system, the severity of the issue, and your long-term energy goals.

If a boiler repair is the best solution, we’ll handle it quickly and efficiently. However, if a replacement makes more sense, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting a new, energy-efficient boiler that fits your home and budget.

If it’s time to replace your boiler, Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. is here to help. We offer professional boiler installation services for a wide range of high-efficiency boiler systems. Installing a new energy-efficient boiler can allow you to access rebates that help you save money on your new HVAC system.

Our team will ensure your new boiler is installed correctly and calibrated for maximum performance, helping you enjoy reliable heating, lower energy bills, and a reduced environmental footprint for years to come.

No matter your boiler situation, you can trust us to provide expert advice and service tailored to your needs. Reach out today to schedule an inspection and let us help you make the best decision for your home!

Boiler issues can arise unexpectedly, often at the most inconvenient times like the middle of the night or over a long weekend. Robinson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. offers emergency service for urgent boiler problems to ensure your home remains comfortable and safe. 

Whether you’re dealing with a sudden loss of heat, a leaking boiler, or unusual noises that indicate a critical malfunction, our experienced technicians are available 24/7 to respond quickly to your boiler repair call. 

We prioritize your needs and promise to provide efficient, reliable solutions to restore your boiler’s functionality promptly. With our emergency service, you can have confidence knowing that help is just a phone call away, no matter the time of day.

You can avoid costly boiler repairs by putting your heating system on a regular maintenance schedule. With routine service and safety inspections, a boiler can last longer and operate more efficiently. 

Thorough Boiler Maintenance Service

Here’s what you can expect during a boiler tune up:

• Inspection of the boiler for any cracks, corrosion, or other signs of wear and tear, as well as check the safety controls and pressure settings
• The technician will check all electrical connections and ensure that you don’t have a faulty thermostat
• Monitor the condition of the heat exchanger, water levels, and other components.
• Testing the operational efficiency of the boiler, making any necessary adjustments, and replacing any worn or damaged parts.
• Additionally, the technician may provide advice on energy-efficient settings, suggest any necessary repairs or replacements, and provide boiler maintenance tips to extend the life of your boiler system.

Learn more about how you can save on this system-saving service with our maintenance plan.

What causes a boiler to break down?

Several factors can contribute to boiler breakdowns, including lack of maintenance, the buildup of limescale, corrosion of internal components, and low water pressure. Additionally, issues with the thermostat, pump, or other electrical components can also lead to malfunction. Regular boiler maintenance can help prevent many of these problems.

How long does a boiler repair take?

The duration of a boiler repair depends on the complexity of the issue. Minor repairs may take a few hours, while more extensive repairs could require a full day or more. After assessing the problem, your technician will provide an estimated timeline for the repair process.

What are the signs of a gas leak from my boiler?

Common signs of a gas leak include a distinct smell of rotten eggs (due to added odorants in natural gas), hissing or whistling sounds near the boiler, and physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea in your household. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the area immediately and contact your gas company or a professional technician. Do not attempt to troubleshoot the issue yourself.

What should I do if my boiler keeps shutting off?

If your boiler frequently shuts off, it may indicate a problem with the thermostat, a low water level, or a malfunctioning component such as a pump or pressure relief valve. First, check the thermostat settings and water pressure. If everything appears normal, contact us so an HVAC technician can find and fix the problem.