Low Maintenance Boiler Pressure Care

Testing Safety Valves

• A boiler has a safety valve at the top of the tank that helps the boiler avoid high pressures and overheating. If too much air becomes trapped in the boiler or if the water pressure rises too high, the safety valve will open and allow some of the pressure, and water, to escape. Test your safety valve at least once a year to ensure it is not blocked or corroded and to siphon off any air that could have become trapped in your system.

Cleaning

• If you have an oil or gas burner, cleaning is a major maintenance step that can prevent a lot of worry later on. The burners can become covered with soot, the igniters might develop a layer of dust, and the combustion compartment in general can become dirty. Thoroughly clean all the combustion components to prevent them from developing blockages later on, or failing in the ignition process. Electric heating elements do not need to be cleaned in the same way, but examine them for any cracks or potential failures.

Reducing Buildup

• Buildup in the boiler tank is caused by bacteria and water scale issues. Rods can be installed inside the tank to prevent bacteria growth if it is becoming a problem. Installing a water softener in your house can help prevent scale issues if you have hard water. Hard water can create layers of deposits on the tank and pipes, which can reduce pressure over time if the minerals in the water are not removed.

Insulation

• If you live in a cold climate, cover surrounding pipes with insulation. This helps the water inside the pipes stay heated as it travels throughout your home. Hotter water means your boiler will not have to work as hard, making it more efficient and longer-lasting.