Annual maintenance on one of your home’s most valuable assets, it’s HVAC system, is very important. Not only will yearly service and inspection ensure that your heating, cooling and indoor air products continue to work efficiently and effectively, it will also ensure better health and safety. Whether you heat your home with a gas furnace, boiler or some other type of heater, you don’t want to be left without heat during one of the coldest winter nights.

A Trusted Heating Company in Southeastern Wisconsin

New Berlin Heating & Air Conditioning has provided heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality products and services to Southeastern Wisconsin residents for over 30 years. Our technicians are NATE certified and trained to service and repair all brands of equipment. If your heat goes out after hours or even in the middle of the night, we offer 24-hour emergency repair service to ensure you are not left without heat for very long. If you need heating in Brookfield WI and any nearby city in Waukesha County or Southwestern Milwaukee County, call us for the best service in the industry.

We are always wanting to help our customers anyway possible and, to that point, we like to provide some tips on how to maintain your home’s HVAC equipment. Below are some tips on boiler maintenance, just in case you do not want to call your local heating contractor for annual maintenance. Ensuring that your boiler is properly maintained is vital to ensure it is operating at peak efficiency levels so you can reduce energy consumption and save money on your utility bills. Also, if you use natural gas, it will help keep you and your family safe.

Boiler Maintenance Tips

Check the Vent Pipes

Depending on the age and type of boiler, vent pipes will be made of metal or PVC. If metal, check them for rust If rusty, it may be time to replace the pipes. If the vent pipes are made of PVC, check the joints to ensure all are connected securely. You should also check for blockages and remove any debris you may find. Check the pipes for any holes or cracks. If you find any, they should be sealed up or the pipes should be replaced.

Check the Inside for Dirt & Rust

Inspect the inside for any excessive dirt or rust. If it seems extremely dirty, turn off the power and clean the unit. You can use a vacuum to remove the dirt.

Bleed the Radiators

If you determine that your radiators are not heating up all the way, there is probably air trapped inside of them and you should “bleed” each radiator to remove the excess air. Here are some steps to bleed your radiators:

  • Protect the carpet or floor with plastic in case water leaks
  • Turn the heating off
  • Use a radiator key or screwdriver and place it in the vent valve, turning clockwise about one quarter rotation until you hear a hissing sound – this is the air being released. Hold a towel or cloth under the valve to catch any water that seeps out
  • Once water starts to come out of the radiator, turn the key or screwdriver in the opposite direction to close and lock the valve
  • Check the radiator to ensure it is hot all the way to the top

Check the Pressure

Once the boiler is working, check the gauge to ensure it is operating properly per manufacturer specifications. If the pressure is low, you should top it off. Follow the manufacturer directions to ensure you do this properly.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Make sure your boiler is clear of clutter. Boilers need space around them to ensure they are ventilated properly. Follow the guidelines in your manufacturer’s operation manual or instructions.

Look for a Blue Flame

Your boiler should have a strong and clear blue flame if it is working properly. If it looks yellow or orange, call a boiler professional, as that is a sign of a problem that could be unsafe.

Annual Boiler Maintenance

It is always recommended that you have your boiler inspected annually by a gas-safe, professional boiler company. The technician will check all the components to make sure they are in good working order and that your boiler is running efficiently and safely. September and October are the best months to get your boiler serviced. This will ensure that it is ready to handle the workload required by our Wisconsin winters.

Call the HVAC Experts

New Berlin Heating & Air Conditioning installs and services boilers throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. If you are in need of boiler repair or service, or any furnace repair in Brookfield, Waukesha or any nearby city in Waukesha County, call us for a quick and thorough inspection or repair. Our NATE certified technicians will have your heating system ready for the upcoming winter months, giving you the peace-of-mind you deserve!