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What Can You Expect From Plumbing Services During A Boiler Tune-Up?

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Like all major appliances in your house, the boiler needs regular maintenance, perhaps more so considering it is in use daily. The whole point behind a boiler tune-up is to make its combustion operations more efficient. Tune-ups are primarily for fuel-fired boilers: gas, oil, and wood. Burning fuel usually brings soot and grime, which clogs up the system. But the tune-up also checks that the boiler is safe regarding pressure levels and carbon monoxide release. So what can you expect from the plumbing service during a tune-up?

1. Test-Run for Temperature and Pressure Checks

Before any repair or replacement is made, the plumbing contractor will run a test run for a few minutes to check for temperature and pressure levels. This helps determine if there are problems that need to be addressed or if the boiler is working fine. Ideally, the boiler should be producing heat evenly and not leaking. Any unusual noises should also be investigated. 

2. Replace Oil Filter   

The oil filter serves as a filter for the combustion process. It collects soot, dust, and dirt that can cause your system to malfunction and break down. There should be a filter change at least annually, depending on how much use your boiler gets. 

3. Lubricate the Circulation Pump   

Your boiler needs a circulating pump to move water through its system. This pump is also lubricated with oil to keep it running smoothly at all times. The plumbing service will lubricate the pump depending on the manual. 

4. Check Expansion Tank   

The boiler's expansion tank keeps the boiler's pressure at a safe level by releasing steam when it expands. The tank is also checked for leaks and corrosion. A higher than usual level requires a drainage valve, while low levels show the need to plug a leak.

5. Test Carbon Monoxide Detector   

For fast detection, a carbon monoxide detector should be installed in the boiler room. The plumbing contractor checks the battery for proper function. They also run standard CO safety checks to ensure the detector is working as expected. 

6. Cleaning 

Your plumber will clean your burner, coil, and the area around it to ensure no dirt or grime can cause a fire. The same goes for the chimney and the boiler's hood. These areas should be checked regularly to avoid soot buildup. The plumber takes apart these components for thorough cleaning. 

Has your boiler gone for long without a tune-up? Talk to plumbing services to run safety checks and tune up the boiler for higher efficiency. 


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