Boilers are a great option for many homes and commercial properties, providing fast, efficient, consistent heat, as well as on-demand hot water. Once installed, boilers often last longer than competing systems – as long as 30 years.

However, just like any major home appliance, regular maintenance is key, including a scheduled maintenance/inspection at least once a year. Follow these steps to ensure a long life for your boiler.

First thing’s first

The first step to ensure proper boiler maintenance is to hire a licensed, NATE-certified technician. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is the HVAC equivalent of an attorney’s bar exam. It’s the nation’s largest nonprofit certification for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR), and NATE-certified technicians have demonstrated their knowledge of today’s increasingly sophisticated heating and cooling systems by passing a nationally recognized test. Read more about third-party validations here.

What to expect

Once you’ve selected the right technician, expect your appointment time to take about two hours. Beware of quick, “discount” appointments. They typically only offer a fraction of the services you need and can leave you with a false sense of security that your system is properly maintained. During a comprehensive inspection, the technician should:

  • Check and clean the combustion chamber.
  • Ensure the air separator, valves, pumps are operating within manufacturer specs.
  • Clean and inspect the heat exchanger.
  • Ensure all boiler connections and wiring are secure.
  • Ensure water pH levels are within the proper range.
  • Inspect condensate system and clean and flush the system as necessary.
  • Examine and clean flame sensors, ignitor, and burner assembly.
  • Inspect the venting system for deterioration, corrosion, or blockage to ensure all pipe and joint connections are secure.
  • Survey vent terminations and air inlet to make sure they’re unobstructed and clear.
  • Check control settings as well as test safety controls and operating controls.

No time like the present

In Colorado, Fall is typically the best time to schedule boiler maintenance, before the winter chill takes its toll on home appliances. And if you can’t remember the last time you had your boiler inspected, there is no time like the present to check this off your to-do list.

Contact Front Range HVAC to schedule your boiler maintenance today.

Learn more 

See other indications that your boiler needs maintenance. 
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