Hydronic heating requires servicing at least once a year. You can be assured of the many benefits of this system only if the maintenance and repair are carried out timely in a proper manner. These are definitely cost-effective and reliable but need apt maintenance on a scheduled basis. The prime factor to be considered is that the installation of the heating systems is handled only by well reputed, qualified and experienced professionals. Handing the installation to ‘just anyone’ can lead to major problems in the future. Listed below are a few important servicing to be carried out in these hydronic heating systems.
Maintenance Tips for Hydronic Heating Systems:
The draining of the boiler and the vents in the radiator needs to be checked.
Ensure there are no vague sounds emitting from the system.
Look out for fluctuation in the thermostat of the heating system.
Check routinely the boiler and the furnace to eliminate the risk of any major break-down or accidents.
Checking the Thermostat:
Before the winter sets in, turn on the thermostat which controls the system. The furnace going on is an indication that the system is working. In case the thermostat stops working after three minutes or less it means there is short cycling. If the thermostat is not adjusted in the right manner or probably the furnace heat exchanger is getting overheated then it is being shut down by the safety device.
The short cycling system needs to be inspected by an experienced professional. In case of the boilers or the furnace ignite when turning on the thermostat check out the shape and color of the flames. The flames need to be solid blue and tight ovals. A technician needs to be called in case the flames are yellow and flicker.
Checking Out the Hydronic Heating Systems:
Get the water temperature along with the pressure checked: Let the system run for an hour or so and get the pressure gauge and the temperature checked. The temperature of water needs to be between 180 and 200 degrees F. The pressure needs to be between 12 PSI and 25 PSI within the system. The pressure or temperature being anything different from what is specified, you need to call in a professional.
Standing water: After the temperature and pressure build up once you start the thermostat, you need to check the pipes and vents for any leakage. A leak needs to be handled by experienced professionals only. In case of any replacement, the water supply and the power will be switched off.
Cleaning Soot: The combustion chamber of the boiler needs to be cleaned off the soot accumulated with the help of either a vacuum or a brush.
Lubrication of the circulating pump: A few drops of oil which are the 3-in-1 type needs to be squirted in the lubrication cups.
Flushing the System: The system needs to be drained and flushed only by the professionals after every five years.
Radiators: The bleeder valve on the radiator needs to be opened and left like that till the time the water starts trickling out.
Service Companies You have multiple companies offering their services for the maintenance of hydronic heating systems. You have a choice between the minor servicing or the 3-year service plan and even the 5-year annual service plan. Compare the different prices to ensure that you are not charged over the top for servicing of the hydronic heating system. You have an option of conducting an online search as this works convenient and easy, saving time and any additional labor. A detailed study will help to hire the best company.
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