The boiler in a home is one of the most used appliances, and one that you want to ensure is working correctly. If the boiler broke down, especially during the cold months of the year, it could leave the home with no heat and leave the household in danger.
Even with regular maintenance, there will come a time when the boiler will need to be replaced. By watching for warning signs, however, you can be prepared for the impending crash of the boiler as to not be caught off guard. Keep tabs on the following signs that are telling you to replace the boiler.
Notice a Bad Smell
If you notice a foul smell or an odor of any kind coming from the boiler, that is a sign that you will need to replace the boiler right away. That smell is likely coming from a carbon monoxide leak, which can be very harmful and even deadly if breathed in.
Although carbon monoxide does not have an odor, the smell would be coming from the boiling not running properly, a result of a leak. Other signs related to a carbon monoxide leak include noticing an increase in condensation on the inside of windows, soot stains around the boiler, or the flame has a yellow hue (rather than a crisp blue), and it blows out frequently.
You Hear Odd Noises
A healthy boiler will have a quite hum sound to it. However, a boiler in need of replacing will make noticeable noises like a clunk or a bang. Those sounds could be a result of a number of issues, including something broken inside.
Notice a Leak
A boiler primarily heats the water in your home. Warm water corrodes metal more quickly than cold water. There are parts of the boiler that are susceptible to corrosion. Over time, if corrosion occurs, you’ll start to notice your boiler leaking. Pay attention to any water around the boiler. That is a sign that it will likely need to be replaced.
Troubles Heating the House
An obvious sign that a boiler needs replacing is when there are issues keeping the house and water heated. Although the boiler is still functioning, it isn’t working at its full capacity. It is likely time to replace the boiler.
Expensive Energy Bills
If you start to notice an increase in your energy or power bills, it could be from your boiler. If the boiler is coming to the end of its lifespan, it will require more power to do the same amount of work. You would then notice a more expensive bill due to the inefficiency of the boiler.
No Heat at All
If you notice there is no heat whatsoever, including the water, there is something very wrong with the boiler. When this happens, it’s likely that you need an emergency boiler repair, or having to replace the whole appliance. Although this isn’t a sign you want to have, it will be your most apparent sign of the boiler needing attention.
