As with any other household item, your boiler is bound to become less functional with regular use. This is where servicing and maintenance come into the picture. A well-installed boiler should severe you for many years, but optimal performance can only be ascertained with regular maintenance. In this read, we are going to take a look at some of the things the average homeowner can do to ensure their boilers stay in ideal condition.  

1. Service the Boiler Annually

Similar to how cars run better when services on a yearly basis, the same applies to your boiler. A yearly service ideally ascertains the warranty stays valid. Boiler insurance often includes an annual service. During servicing, it’s also a good idea to highlight any problems like leaks, strange noises, or issues when the appliance is being used. This will most likely reduce the damage extent and stop the boiler from breaking down completely.  

2. If You Have a Sealed System Setup, Monitor the Pressure

As time goes by, your boiler may gradually lose pressure. As such, it is best to have a pressure check routine. As such, you’ll want to have a regular pressure checkup. It should read between 1 and 1.5. Lower than 1 bar means you should add water to the system. To ensure you do it properly, consult your boiler owner’s manual. 

3. Ascertain Proper Ventilation as Per Manufacturer Requirements

Boilers nowadays are tucked and hidden in confined spaces. However, issues can arise when other items are stored around the appliance. Given some iterations need vents, covering or limiting airflow can starve the boiler of oxygen and result in loss of efficiency. It can even damage the boiler, rendering it unsafe for use.  

4. Run the Heating System on a Regular Basis

Most individuals have a habit of using their heating system only during the winter season. However, this means that the unit goes unused for months, which can deteriorate it and cause it to stop working entirely. To prevent this, it’s advisable to run the system at least once per month for about half an hour.  

5. Regularly Inspect the Unit

You’ll also want to assess your boiler and look for any apparent damage like rust or cracks, fluid leak or strange noises while running. In addition, take note of any error codes your boiler might currently or has previously shown. Make sure that it is blue in color and if it’s another color, turn it off and avoid utilizing it until a professional works on it. Ensure that the engineer is Gas Safe Registered to check your unit and give advice.  

6. Check the Radiators

By maintaining the radiators, you will prevent the boiler from putting in extra work. Over time, these units allow air into the system. A clear sign of this is usually a cold patch at the top of a warm radiator or a unit that’s not getting as hot as expected. To handle this problem, it is advisable to bleed the radiators.  
In addition to air build-up, the system can ideally develop a sludge at the bottom of the radiators, which may lead to boiler damage. To address this, ensure you flush the system.  

7. Pick a Gas Safe Registered Engineer

As mentioned earlier, you need to ensure the safety and optimum operation of your boiler by using an engineer that’s actually approved for the job. Otherwise, you put your household at risk of the problems mentioned and others. If your boiler is not working or you need a service, do not compromise on the engineer. Faults in these units can sometimes emit toxic gas that can’t be seen or smelt. Also, it is a good idea to install carbon monoxide detectors in your house.  
With these tips, you should be able to keep your boiler running optimally for a long time. If you have any further questions, consult a professional today!