The boiler is a complex system that needs to be cleaned annually. It has more parts, valves and controls than your typical forced air furnace, and if you are running one of these systems in your home, you need to be aware of how important proper care of these components is for your safety and comfort. Gas-fired boilers can be very reliable and most of the problems you may experience will occur when maintenance is not done yearly as needed. That is why you should call Four Seasons Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule an appointment for one of are qualified service technicians to come out and perform a cleaning on your boiler. This will ensure that all controls, pumps, and valves are set properly, and that the burners, pilot assembly and any orifices are cleaned out. This will allow the unit to run smoothly all winter long, but if you are one of those homeowners that forget the cleaning every year, ask our representatives about our yearly service contracts when you call to schedule your yearly maintenance check this winter.
In order for you to have a better understanding of the part within your boiler, let’s take a quick look at the major components of a forced-water, or hydronic, boiler system.
Hot Water Supply Side:
- Aquastat – The thermostat that regulates the boiler’s temperature
- Gas Valve and Burners – Combustion assembly that heats the water chamber
- Combination Pressure / Temperature Gage (Tridicator) – Monitors water temperature and pressure
- Water Feed Valve – Controls water flow to boiler
- Pressure Reducing Valve – Automatically maintains correct water pressure at about 12-15 psi
- Air Vent – Automatically purges unwanted air from hydronic system
- Expansion Tank – Critical component that allows expansion of water as it heats. There are two types of expansion tanks, the older larger style horizontal steel expansion tank and the newer smaller style diaphragm expansion tank.
- Flow Control Valve – Regulates flow of hot water to system
- Pressure Relief Valve – Safety device that relieves high water pressure
Hot Water Return Side:
- Circulator- Electric pump that circulates water through the system
- Drain Valve– The valve that opens to allow draining the boiler
