Benefits of a Boiler Tune-Up
Because boilers are efficient, save on space and are affordable, they are popular among Toronto homeowners. Many people choose a boiler from Viessmann, which is a leading brand in the industry for quality and reliability. Like furnaces, boilers need tune-ups and inspections periodically. This blog explains what a tune-up is and the benefits of having one.
What Does a Boiler Tune-Up Involve?
A qualified technician knows how to conduct a full inspection and fix most issues. The first part of a tune-up is a thorough cleaning of the boiler to remove dirt, debris and grime. Also, a technician will perform these tasks:
- Check the thermostat to ensure that heat settings are ideal for comfort or efficiency goals.
- If necessary, reset boiler specifications to meet manufacturer requirements.
- Inspect electrical connections, moving parts, motors, controls and safety components for any issues.
- Inspect any above-ground tanks for safety.
- Inspect the ventilation area and gas connections for any leaks or problems.
- Inspect the heat exchanger for any safety risks.
- Look for leaks from the hydronic system.
Benefits of Boiler Tune-Ups
Boilers are considered more durable than furnaces. Also, they have fewer moving parts. Because of these factors, people often overlook maintenance tasks or assume that their boilers do not need attention every year.
One of the main reasons why boilers still need inspections and repairs is because of the water they use. Continual internal water flow and pressure can be hard on boiler components and can lead to wear over time. These are the three main benefits of scheduling an annual inspection and tune-up for your boiler.
- Maximize Efficiency and Minimize Costs
With boilers, important parts can last longer if they are maintained. Also, there are some adjustments that professionals can make to help boilers run more efficiently. If these maintenance tasks are ignored, the parts wear out sooner and lead to expensive repairs. Also, as it is with a furnace, a boiler that must work harder because of preventable inefficiency will cost more to use during the heating season. - Promote Safety
While modern boilers have safety features, most are still powered by natural gas. Because of this, they produce carbon monoxide. The ventilation system for a boiler is designed to keep this toxic gas out of your home. If it fails or has other problems, it could lead to a leak. If you have a technician perform an inspection and a tune-up, the technician ensures that the ventilation system is safe and working well. - Maximize Longevity
When you have a technician inspect your boiler at the start of each heating season, you are more likely to have a heater that works all winter. Nothing is more frustrating than having your heater break down on one of the coldest days of the year, and they often do break during colder periods without proper maintenance. Technicians can identify a wide variety of minor issues that can be fixed before they worsen and turn into serious problems.
How To Tell When Your Boiler Needs a Tune-Up
If you cannot remember the last time your boiler was serviced, it is time for a tune-up.
Some people in Toronto unsuspectingly hire handymen to inspect their boilers. These handymen may not know how to perform a full inspection correctly or how to fix minor issues properly.
If you recently had an unlicensed handyman look at your boiler and suspect any issues, you can protect your family's safety and your peace of mind by scheduling a tune-up with a licensed technician. Even if you had your boiler inspected at the end of the last heating season, you may need an additional inspection and servicing if your boiler is making unusual sounds.
Feel free to call us if you have questions about changes with your boiler or unusual sounds. Please call us immediately if you notice or suspect any leaks.
When To Schedule a Tune-Up for Your Boiler
All boilers, new and old, need annual inspections and tune-ups to maximize their usefulness and to keep you and your family safer.
The ideal time for a tune-up is when you are not using the boiler. In the spring, the boiler has just come out of a season of heavy use. If it developed problems during that time, it is better to address them before it must start another season of heavy use. As a rule, most technicians recommend scheduling an inspection sometime between late April and August every year.
Benefits of Scheduling a Boiler Tune-Up in Advance
Scheduling a tune-up at the end of the heating season gives you more time to prepare for a potential repair or replacement if you need one.
For example, if the technician finds something that may be too expensive to fix on an old boiler, you may need a new one. You will have more time to save up for a new boiler during the summer. With more time to plan, you can also spend time researching your options to see what fits your budget and heating needs.
You may also find some promotional offers that help you save money. During the fall and early winter, it can be harder to get an appointment time that works for you if you have a lot of commitments. Most people scramble for last-minute service during the fall. However, at The Boiler Shoppe, we do our best to accommodate the needs of all customers and their schedules.
Boiler Tune-Up and Inspection Services in Toronto
One important tip to remember is to keep your tune-up and inspection reports each year. If you have a newer unit and need to file a warranty claim, you may need those documents.
Most manufacturers also require that important services be performed by qualified technicians. The Boiler Shoppe proudly serves Toronto, Ontario. If you live in or near the city, we can provide boiler inspection and tune-up services. We are familiar with many newer and older boiler models. To learn more, please contact us.
