Residential Hot Water Boiler Problems

Boilers provide hot water all around your home.

If you live in a standard house or apartment, chances are that your hot water is provided by a boiler. Like any appliance, you may run into problems with your boiler sooner or later.

No Hot Water

If your boiler is not producing hot water, make sure the pilot light is lit first. If it is, check to see if the boiler's thermostat and control valves are working. Valves occasionally need to be tightened or replaced, and thermostats can break or get worn out as well.

Boilers Noises

Boilers can make a variety of noises if they are malfunctioning, including rumbling or snapping sounds. This usually means the tank is getting too hot due to sediment buildup. Such sediment can be easily removed by flushing the water heater once or twice.

Boiler Leakage

If you find water pooling around the bottom of your boiler, it is likely a faulty value or plumbing connection is to blame. At times, however, the water tank itself will become corroded and leak. Solutions to these problems involve replacing the value, connections or tank.

References

• How Your House Works: A Visual Guide to Understanding & Maintaining Your Home; Charlie Wing; 2007