There are several reasons to keep up with annual boiler maintenance. While regular service will help you reduce energy waste and save money, a yearly tune-up will also keep your home safer. That’s because several of the services included in the tune-up minimize the risk of carbon monoxide exposure.
Boiler maintenance reduces your chances of exposure in several ways.
Inspecting the Heat Exchanger for Damage
Just like furnaces, energy-efficient boilers use heat exchangers. The heat exchanger assists in heating the water, which is then pushed through the system and delivers hot steam to your home’s heating outlets and appliances.
Through normal wear and tear, the heat exchanger can suffer damage. Even a minor crack in the heat exchanger is enough to let carbon monoxide leak into your home. During the boiler tune-up, your technician will inspect the heat exchanger for damage. If they find a problem, they will recommend replacing the heat exchanger.
How Often Should I Test My Carbon Monoxide Detector?
Keeping your carbon monoxide detector in good shape is an important part of boiler maintenance. Make sure to replace the detector’s batteries every year. In addition, test the device every 30 days. If the detector isn’t working properly, replace it right away. The use of a detector is often the only way to catch a carbon monoxide leak early.
Cleaning Carbon Buildup in the Flue
Cleaning the flue is another essential part of boiler maintenance. The maintenance benefits that come from this part of the process include improving the release of exhaust fumes. The flue carries those fumes outside your home, so carbon monoxide and other contaminants won’t adversely affect your indoor air quality.
After shutting the boiler down, the technician will use a powerful tool to push compressed air through the flue. This forces the carbon sediment through the flue until it is deposited outside.
How Can I Ventilate My Boiler’s Location?
Aside from keeping up with boiler maintenance, you can reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure by improving airflow. When possible, cover windows with screens and keep those windows open. The cross breeze will carry fumes out of your home.
During your boiler installation, ask the technician about installing exhaust fans and other types of ventilation. They may install air purifiers and other equipment that help keep the air in your home free from harmful particles.
Removing Blockages in the Burners
Professional boiler maintenance includes cleaning the unit’s burners. Over time, carbon sediment builds up in the burners and keeps the system from properly burning the fuel.
Carbon monoxide gets released as a byproduct of an incomplete fuel-burning process. Regular boiler tune-ups prevent that exposure while ensuring your system uses fuel more efficiently.
Stay Healthy with an Annual Tune-Up from the Pros
When you work with All-Temp Heating and Cooling, we’ll provide the preventive care your boiler needs. Our comprehensive boiler maintenance service restores the optimal performance of your boiler, so you can heat your home safely and effectively. Contact us to schedule your boiler service today!