How to Operate Hot Water Boilers
Hot water boilers are part of home heating systems that use radiators, baseboard piping or radiant pipes under floors to deliver heat. Boilers heat water to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit. The hot water is then pumped from the boiler through a series of inside pipes to radiate heat. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Turn the burner valve to the "off" position. The typical valve has a plastic lever with arrows showing the direction to turn for "on" and "off." Many systems have an automatic shut-off feature that cuts off the gas supply to the burner whenever the pilot light is out. Turning off this valve is a precautionary exercise for such systems, but it's necessary for safety on all other boilers.
-
2
Light the pilot on gas burners with a manual controlled pilot light by turning the gas knob to the "pilot" setting. Push the knob in and hold it. Strike a fireplace match and put the flame over the pilot valve while keeping the knob depressed. Release the knob once the pilot lights and turn it to the "on" position.
-
-
3
Turn the burner valve to the "on" position to return the gas supply to the burner.
-
4
Adjust the thermostat to a high setting and watch for the boiler to come on. Reset the thermostat to the desired temperature.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Ask a certified technician to perform an annual maintenance inspection at the beginning of each heating season. Hot water boilers must be clean as well as having proper water and gas pressure for safe and efficient operation. You may not immediately notice unsafe conditions because the system may continue to provide heat.
Use humidifiers in buildings with radiant heat to reduce dryness in the air.
Leave the building immediately if you smell gas after starting a hot water boiler. Call the gas company or fire department for assistance from a location outside the building.
References
- Photo Credit white radiator image by Ekaterina Sidorenko from Fotolia.com
