You’re not entirely sure, but you think your boiler may not be working properly. How can you know for sure? Are you only just now hearing those strange sounds, or were they there forever and you’re just noticing them now? Is there something wrong with your water pressure, or did it just have a strange window where it didn’t seem to be as strong as it normally is?
If you’re not quite sure whether your boiler is working properly, check out our troubleshooting tips below. In many cases, even if you’re able to determine that no, your boiler is not working properly, you will still be unable to fix it by yourself. That’s where our technicians at Ambient Edge come in. Call us for service anytime, day or night. We can get your boiler back to its proper working condition in no time.
The Age of Your Boiler
Even the best-kept boiler only lasts perhaps 15 years, maybe slightly more for older models. If your boiler is older than 15 years old, chances are high that it is going to break down sooner rather than later. So, if you suspect there is something wrong with your older boiler, you are more than likely correct, and it is time to replace it.
However, if you sense something is wrong with a newer boiler, you may still be due for an upgrade. Technology is changing all the time, so a boiler made even five years ago is still “older” than the advancements in boilers that have come out since then.
Strange Noises
You may have noticed your boiler making strange noises lately, but were those noises always there? Or have they just gotten worse over time? Of course, some noise is normal for a boiler, which is why it tends to perk your ears up when you actually notice a noise. It’s your mind’s way of telling you that this is not one of the sounds you’ve learned to ignore – this is one that’s demanding your attention.
Typically, the noises that demand attention sound like gurgling, clunking, whistling, or banging. Causes of these noises can range from air becoming trapped in the system to low water pressure or a failing pump. There is also something called “kettling” that can happen, which is the build-up of limescale within your heating system. These are all issues that a professional should be handling, so if you hear whistling, clunking, banging, or gurgling, Ambient Edge can help.
Foul Smells
When it comes to your boiler, a strange, unpleasant smell is something you should have looked at right away. The worst-case scenario could mean a gas leak, which is a serious problem. At the very least, strange smells mean your boiler is not working as it should, which certainly warrants a service call. And, of course, it’s not healthy for you and your family to be breathing those vapors in, so it’s best to call for help sooner rather than later.
High Energy Bills
Particularly with gas boilers, if you notice that your utility bills are running on the higher end lately and you can’t seem to discern the cause, your boiler may very well be the cause. Your boiler may be using more gas than it actually needs to run, especially in the case of older boilers. A professional can analyze your boiler to determine how much gas it is actually using and whether it is at an acceptable level.
Inconsistent Heat and Hot Water
If you only have heat and/or hot water some of the time, this can signal a problem with the boiler pressure or your thermostat. In either case, this may be a sign of a more complicated problem that only a professional can fix. However, you can, if you so choose, follow online guides to help you re-pressurize your boiler if the issue is related to lower boiler pressure.
Boiler Not Working Properly? Call Ambient Edge!
If you have tried all these tips and still can’t seem to restore your boiler to proper working order, don’t panic – Ambient Edge can help. We have decades of experience repairing and replacing all makes and models of boilers, and we are proud to offer all our customers a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our parts and labor. Plus, no time is inconvenient – we provide round-the-clock emergency service for when you need us the most.
Call us or fill out the contact form on our website to get started. Don’t just “make do” when your boiler isn’t up to snuff. Call us today, and let us help you get it back on the straight and narrow in no time!