Plumber performing boiler repairs

Boilers, Hot Water Heaters and What They Do

When homeowners think of a heater, a reliable furnace is probably the first thing you think of. But plumbing appliances like your hot water heater and even boilers are just as valuable. Your hot water heater is vital for laundry or bathing, while boilers can be highly effective solutions for whole-home heating. With a professional team of installers and service technicians, Wyant Heating & Aircan help make the most of these appliances.

Let’s find out how both systems work. You can make the right decision when you’re ready to schedule boiler installation of your own. And if you need help with any type of boiler repair, let us know at 301-453-8368.

Understanding How a Boiler Warms Your Home

While furnaces are the most common heating system these days, boilers are commonly used options too. You can still find them in homes with vintage charm by way of standing or baseboard radiators. Modern boilers are making a return thanks to technological innovations.

When the temperature drops below your current settings, the boiler starts heating water for distribution throughout the house. Various zone valves channel the water to each radiator thanks to a powerful circulating pump. But now, boilers are also compatible with conventional HVAC ductwork. A hot water coil is installed inside the air ducts, heating the air by convection before it circulates through your ventilation system.

Most boilers keep this water supply between 180 to 200 degrees (F). To keep the entire supply at efficient temperatures, the circulator continues to pump water until the coldest water has returned to the system. You’ll want to keep the internal pressure at about 30 pounds per square inch (psi). A gauge found on the boiler allows you to check both the pressure and the water’s temperature.

Other vital components include the air scoop, water feeder, expansion tank and relief valve:

  • The air scoop, also known as an air separator or air purge, clears out the air bubbles held in the water. Clearing the air bubbles limits noise and prevents air-bound radiation from affecting the system’s efficiency.
  • Automatic water feeders continue to add water when needed to keep the system full, minimizing potential problems.
  • The expansion tank removes and stores excess water generated throughout the heating process.
  • Lastly, the boiler’s relief valve maintains the water pressure at safe/efficient levels. Otherwise, you risk overheating the system or forcing too much water into it.

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First Up: How Do Traditional Water Heaters Work?

For the most part, a hot water heater is essentially a large storage tank with built-in heating elements. Water held inside the tank is kept hot until you need it. The water is heated to your preferred temperature before it’s pumped to the faucet or appliance that needs it. For safety and efficiency, the water heater’s thermostat should stay around 120°F and 140°F. This reduces the chance of scalding or bacterial growth.

In contrast, tankless water heaters are comparatively new and lack the storage tank, as the name suggests. Instead, it starts heating water as it arrives from the water main. This can be very cost-effective since you’re not constantly heating a lot of water like you would with a standard tank water heater.

Five Signs Your Boiler May Need Professional Service

Contact a qualified boiler repair technician if you recognize any of the following signs:

1

The burner is noisy or smells like smoke:

These burner problems often point back to trouble with the combustion process. A technician will check the burner assembly itself along with the air and fuel supply lines.

2

Excessive air noises:

A loud and disruptive boiler often starts with air stuck somewhere in the system, affecting efficiency. While most of the time these air pockets are in the pipes, there might be a problem with the circulation pump.

3

Water leaking out from the relief valve:

A leaky valve can mean that the water pressure inside your boiler is too high. This may be a problem with the valve itself or that there’s something wrong with the expansion tank.

4

Water escaping from any nearby piping connections:

Leaks at the piping connections usually stem from damaged seals, joints or connections in the system. Fixing these leaks early prevents more damage or loss of efficiency.

5

A smoky or odor like gas:

The smell of natural gas or something burning should be taken seriously. There may be a leak in the fuel supply line or a damaged burner assembly. Prompt service ensures safety and prevents the risk of a fire.

close up of a boiler control panel

Whether you’re looking to fix a problem or you’re thinking about an upgrade, Wyant Heating & Air can help.

We are known for repair and installation services for both hot water heaters and boilers, and our certified staff will make sure yours is in the best possible shape. Get in touch with us at 301-453-8368 to arrange a free consultation.

We service all makes and models, so give us a call today!

Save Even More with Special Offers

A complete sense of comfort shouldn’t be out of anyone’s budget. Wyant Heating & Air lightens the load with seasonal promotions, discounts and other special offers. These offers help lower costs for key services, new equipment or whatever else you need for your comfort and peace of mind. Check out our current offers for more details on how to save.

Committed to Comfort from the Very Start

While a long history of service is impressive, nothing is more important to customer satisfaction than a dedication to total comfort. Wyant Heating & Air considers your peace of mind our top priority, and that hasn’t changed since we first opened our doors. Learn more about our history, and how our communities support us just as much as we support you.