Who Do You Call to Fix a Boiler?

Do You Call a Plumber to Fix a Boiler?

You know your boiler, the big tank that keeps your home warm and supplies hot water for daily activities? When a boiler breaks down, it can really throw a wrench in your plans. The not-so-exciting part is that you may need to take quick action to solve the issue. While you may be able to fix some of the boiler problems yourself, at other times, you’ll need the help of experts.

But here’s the dilemma. What can you do when your boiler’s acting up and when it’s time to call the cavalry? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back.

1. What to Do When Your Boiler Isn’t Working

Before you do anything else, find out the type of boiler in your home. Is it a hydronic system that heats water and circulates it through radiators? Or is it a steam-based system that heats your home with steam? Knowing this can help you figure out what’s going on.

Now, before you start panicking, let’s check the basics, beginning with the thermostat. Your thermostat might be playing tricks on you, and a simple misconfiguration can make it seem like the boiler isn’t working at all. Verify the temperature settings and make sure the thermostat is properly connected to the boiler. If your thermostat is powered by batteries, pop in some fresh ones, as weak batteries can sometimes cause communication issues. You’d be surprised how often that fixes things!

If the thermostat checks out, take a peek at your circuit breaker. Sometimes, a tripped breaker may cut power to the boiler. Resetting it might get the system running again. However, if the breaker keeps tripping, that’s your cue of a potential electrical electrical problem, and you should call a pro.

Leaks around the boiler are another common issue, and they usually indicate a more urgent problem. If you spot a leak, it may be because of a wonky pressure relief valve, a pump seal, or corrosion inside the boiler. Turn off the boiler and get an expert on the phone to avoid more extensive damage.

2. Common Boiler Issues

Leaking

Leaks are a serious problem for any boiler. Water and electricity can create dangerous situations, and ignoring a leak will likely lead to more damage.

Leaks typically happen because of worn-out seals, a faulty pressure relief valve, or corrosion within the system. Not only does this waste water, but it can also damage your home if you leave it unchecked.

If you see water pooling around your boiler, it’s best to shut it off and call a professional right away.

No Heating

If your boiler isn’t heating your home, you may be facing several scenarios. It might be as simple as a malfunctioning thermostat or a sign of a larger issue like a broken pump or lack of fuel.

After checking the thermostat, we recommend contacting an HVAC technician if your boiler is still not producing heat. They can figure out and fix the issue quickly, restoring warmth to your home.

Low Pressure

Boilers operate most efficiently at a pressure level of around 1.5 bar. If the pressure drops below 1.0, your heating may become unreliable or stop working altogether.

This could be caused by a leak in the system or a need to repressurize the boiler. Many modern boilers have a simple gauge on the front that shows the current pressure, allowing you to adjust it. However, if the pressure drops consistently, you’re better off having a tech take a look.

3. Why It’s Best to Hire a Repair Pro to Fix a Boiler

Here’s why DIY-ing your boiler repair isn’t always the best idea:

Safety Precautions

First off, safety is a big deal. Boilers use fuel to generate heat, posing risks like gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure.

These systems require careful handling, and attempting to fix a boiler on your own could lead to dangerous situations. You don’t want to mess around with it.

So, your safest route is hiring the pros, as they have the necessary training to properly deal with fuel and heat-related hazards.

Expert Diagnosis

Boilers are complicated beasts, with many parts that could be malfunctioning. What looks like a simple fix could actually be hiding a bigger problem. Trying a DIY fix without understanding the full scope of the issue may lead to further damage, costing more in repairs down the line.

A trained technician has the skill and know-how to diagnose the problem accurately.

Access to Correct Parts

Even if you successfully diagnose the problem yourself, let’s be honest, finding the right parts can be a nightmare.

HVAC technicians have access to a wide range of parts and can get them faster than the average homeowner. This means your repair can be completed more quickly, reducing the time your boiler is out of commission.

4. Types of Professionals Who Can Fix a Boiler

So, who do you call, after all?

Plumbers

If your boiler problem involves water issues (such as leaks, pressure fluctuations, or a faulty pilot light), a plumber is your go-to person.

They can handle the water-related components of the system, from fixing leaks to adjusting the water pressure. However, they may not be as familiar with the heating mechanics of the boiler itself.

HVAC Technicians

HVAC technicians specialize in heating systems, including boilers. They are experts in both the mechanical and heating functions of the system. Whether it’s a broken pump, a malfunctioning heat exchanger, or an installation issue, an HVAC technician is your best bet to fix a boiler. They can also provide routine maintenance and make sure that your system runs as strong as a horse in the long term.

One Hour Magic Heating & Air for Heater Repair

If you’re in Charleston, SC, One Hour Magic Heating & Air is a top choice for heater repairs. Our HVAC techs are highly trained and know their stuff when it comes to fixing a boiler. We are ready to tackle any boiler issues, big or small. Did we mention our emergency services? We can get your heating system back up and running in a heartbeat.

Also, One Hour Magic Heating & Air stands out for its commitment to preventative care. Routine boiler maintenance can stop problems before they start, and our technicians are well-versed in keeping boilers running at peak performance. If an issue does arise, our fast response time means less downtime for your heating system.