Boilers are wonderful home heating systems that have stood the test of time. Instead of heating air like furnaces do, boilers heat water and turn it into steam. Because boilers contain a lot of water, what should you do when you notice the system leaking?
Depending on where the leak is and how much water is coming out of the boiler can determine your state of panic. The boiler experts at Poston Brothers are here to help you troubleshoot your leaking boiler and let you know when to call us for boiler services.
What Should I Do if My Boiler Is Leaking Water?
As soon as you notice your boiler leaking water, clean up the water to prevent water damage. Then, monitor the leak to see how fast it is leaking water. See if you can identify where the leak is coming from. A leaking boiler will need to be fixed by an HVAC technician, but doing some troubleshooting yourself can help save time. Not every leaking boiler needs to be replaced, but having the professional team at Poston Brothers look at your boiler is the only way to be sure.
Reasons Why Your Boiler Leaks
Leaks are never a good sign, but there are a few steps you can take to stop them. Boilers use both gas and very hot water to supply heat to your home. If you are not comfortable being around these elements, call Poston Brothers right away.
Pressure
The pressure relief valve on your boiler can get clogged with sediment and cause leaks. Boilers need to release pressure regularly, and if it cannot release steam, it will release water instead. Turn off your boiler and let it cool. Then open the pressure relief valve to release the water for 3-4 seconds. The water should come out clean. If you shut the valve and it continues to leak, that means there’s more sediment inside. Repeat this process until the boiler leaks stop. If they don’t stop, then call Poston Brothers.
Corrosion
Corroded pipes and tanks are a common reason your boiler is leaking water. Corrosion is a problem, and you’ll need to consult with a technician to see how bad the corrosion is and what repairs you’ll need.
Faulty Installation
If your boiler was recently installed and you’re noticing leaks, then there’s a good chance that the installation was done incorrectly. Occasionally, some joints and pipe fittings aren’t installed correctly, and that can cause a leaking boiler. Poston Brothers is always happy to provide a second opinion on boiler installation.
Broken Seals
Just like pipes, seals and parts can break down over time. A broken seal will spray a lot of water, so you’ll notice it right away. It’s important to turn off your boiler if the leaking water is constant to prevent water damage.
Temperature Control Valve
The temperature control valve regulates the temperature of the water in the boiler. If your temperature valve is malfunctioning and setting your boiler temperature too high, it could be causing boiler issues like leaks.
How Can I Prevent My Boiler from Leaking Again?
Boilers, like any central heating system, need to be maintained on an annual basis. If it’s been a long time since you’ve had a reputable HVAC company like Poston Brothers look at your boiler, now is the time. If it’s hard to remember to schedule your yearly maintenance, then join our Poston Club maintenance plan.
When you’re a member, we’ll remind you when your boiler is due for service and then we’ll schedule your appointment around your schedule. Member benefits also include a discount on all repairs, replacement credits, and discounts on service calls. Call Poston Brothers today for boiler repairs, and ask your technician about joining the Poston Club maintenance program.