Boiler Repair - How to Ensure That You Stay Warm This Winter

Boiler repair can be avoided with regular maintenance-- keeping your boiler running efficiently is
a little like keeping your car running efficiently, regular servicing is the answer. Just as with
your car,a regularly maintained boiler will save you money in the long run and not let you down
when you need it the most. You should make sure that your boiler is regularly maintained to avoid
the need for costly repairs. At the very least, an annual checkup is required to ensure that your
home stays toasty during the cold winter months.

So what does a boiler do and what are some of the common problems to be on the lookout for? If
you notice any of these problems, then it's time to call in a specialist in boiler repair - it may
even be too late and replacement could be the only answer.

• Lack of heat and hot water. The main function of a boiler is to heat your home and heat
your water. If you have neither, then you know there is trouble. This trouble may be elevated to
Trouble (with a capital "T") in the winter months.

• Drips and leaks are a sure sign that something is happening with your boiler that really
shouldn't be happening. The severity and cause of the problem depends upon where the drips and
leaks are actually coming from.

• Strange noises, banging, gurgling, whistling, and things that go "bump" in the night. This
could be caused by any number of issues, such as air in the system or a sign that the water
pressure is far too low.

• Losing water pressure. If your usual high water pressure is reduced to a trickle, this
could also point to boiler problems. Perhaps your boiler needs a replacement pressure relief
valve. You'll want to call in the boiler repair professionals as soon as you notice this type of
problem.

• Thermostat related problems. Maybe your thermostat appears to have "lost its way" and
switches on or off when you don't want it to, or it simply ignores the temperature controls you
have in place and leaves you sweltering one minute and freezing the next. Investing in a new
thermostat with increased energy efficiency can save you money and hassle.

• Boiler switching off when it's not supposed to. This could be because of low water
pressure or a faulty valve, problems with the circulatory air pump, thermostat problems - there
are a whole heap of possibilities here.

• Heaters not heating up. This could be because of corroded pipe work, air in the system,
sludge, or something else preventing the hot water to flow freely around the home. Your system may
need to be chemically cleaned and flushed by the professionals.

If you notice any of these boiler problems then a boiler repair professional should be called to
your home as soon as possible.

So, what are some other things do you need to look out for while you're on "boiler alert?" It can
be pretty cold and miserable to live in a house without hot water or heat during the winter, even
if it's only for a few short days--that is, if you have the necessary funds to pay for your boiler
repair. You can bet your bottom dollar that your boiler will give up the ghost when the
temperature and your bank balance are at their lowest.

The only sensible solution to this problem is to be pro-active. It's been said before and it will
be said again, regular boiler maintenance is the best, most cost-effective method of keeping your
boiler running all year round.

Here are a few other signs which could point to the fact that your boiler is in desperate need of
a service.

Old age takes its toll on many things - people, cars, houses, pets, and boilers. Boilers have an
average life expectancy of around 15 years, so if your old faithful is heading into the twilight
zone, then it could be time to go shopping. If you wait until your boiler goes BANG you won't have
the necessary time to shop around for the best deal. If your old boiler uses a pilot light for
starting the burner then you can be pretty sure that it's at least 25 years old.

Rising heating bills are another sure sign that a little boiler repair is called for. As boilers
get older they lose efficiency which means increased heating bills. Regular maintenance can help
your boiler to run at its peak and save you valuable dollars.

If your house has "hot spots" and "cold spots" it could be another sign that the boiler is in
need of repair or replacement. Efficient heating systems disperse the heat equally to coincide
with the setting on the thermostat. You should be able to set it and forget it (and stay warm and
comfortable).

Just like cars, once old boilers start to break down in one area you can be pretty sure that the
whole thing is getting worn and unreliable. If your boiler breaks down every winter, even after an
annual service then you should seriously start to consider searching for a new solution to your
heating and hot water problems.

One last but very important issue about inefficient boilers is not only the comfort of your
family but also their health. Boiler repair is essential for the safety of your family. Badly
maintained boilers can develop leaks of carbon monoxide which can quickly prove fatal for the
entire household.Carbon monoxide is colorless, tasteless, you can't smell it, you won't even know
it's there . . .it is also deadly. Leaks can cause queasiness, headaches, flu-like symptoms,
disorientation, and burning sensation in the nose or eyes. If you, or any member of your family,
suffer from any of these symptoms, open the windows to ventilate your home and call the boiler
repair service as soon as possible.

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Crawford Services can provide you with professional, knowledgeable and thorough attention for your
household geothermal heating and cooling needs. For more information about boiler repair and other
HVAC topics, visit us at http://www.crawford-services.com

Posted by Blackstock Electric http://blackstockelectric.com/

HVAC Service: Know What Your Home Needs To Stay Healthy Through The Winter

HVAC Service is vital to keeping your home warm and cozy during the winter months, as well as cool
and comfortable during the summer months. The extreme temperatures of winter and summer can wreak
havoc with your cooling and heating equipment. But, a regular HVAC service can save money over the
long term as HVAC repair and replacement can be one of the highest expenses a homeowner has to
face. Preventative maintenance can help to save on costly repairs that tend to occur at the most
inopportune moments.

What Should the HVAC Service Include?

After calling in a professional to complete your HVAC service, he or she should examine the
following parts of your system:

Thoroughly clean and check over the condenser coils, straightening them out if necessary.
This will ensure a proper flow of air in the system.

Check all gas connections, in case of leaks.

Check all refrigerant levels, in case of leaks.

Tighten up all electrical connections.

 Check all lubricant to the moving parts within the system.

Check that the thermostat is functioning correctly - switching off and on according to the
settings.

Check and clean the air filter.

An annual inspection and HVAC service is imperative to ensure the smooth running of the system so
that everything performs at maximum efficiency. This will also help to extend the useful life of
the equipment. An annual check-up may even save you money in more ways than one:

1. Reducing your property energy bills - efficient, well serviced equipment is much more cost
effective than badly performing equipment in need of service.

2. Reducing the likelihood that your heating equipment will simply go "bang" and need costly
replacement or repairs.

Arranging a regular HVAC service with a recognized, professional company can help you to save
money and give you real peace of mind. Many service contractors will offer contracts for an annual
HVAC service to include a spring visit to check out and service the air conditioning unit and a
pre-winter visit to check over the heating system ensuring maximum efficiency during the colder
months. Signing one of these agreements could also mean that you can receive discounts over any
needed repairs or purchasing new equipment.

In conclusion - don't try to skimp on HVAC service costs. That's almost a guarantee that repairs
will end up costing you more in the long run. You may think that paying for the service is a waste
of money which could be better used elsewhere . . . but, think again. Having a regular HVAC
service can help to save money on your heating bills and prevent the incredibly expensive option
of needing to repair or replace the entire unit.
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Crawford Services offers you the personal service and focus that you need when deciding whether
you need air conditioning repair or replacement. Visit us at http://www.crawford-services.com for
all your HVAC service needs in the Dallas area.

Posted by Blackstock Electric http://blackstockelectric.com/