“Following these simple preventative measures can ensure a building’s safety, as well as cut down significantly on energy costs.”

It goes without saying that facility maintenance personnel should be aware of basic preventive maintenance measures for the commercial and industrial boilers they service. Yet, given the demands of the profession and changing technologies, even the most diligent maintenance personnel can sometimes overlook the fundamentals of boiler maintenance.

Preventive maintenance helps building and facility owners mitigate costly boiler repair charges, as well as limit potential hazards in the workplace. These basic measures are usually simple, but sometimes taken for granted. Accordingly, we’ve provided a refresher course, of sorts to keep industry personnel current on what to look out for when it comes to keeping their boilers running at peak performance.

The Basics:

1. Check Electricity and Fuel

Checking the boiler’s electricity and gas levels may sound obvious, but it never hurts to reiterate. Maintenance personnel should ensure that boilers have the correct levels of fuel and power at all times. In addition, checking the integrity of electrical wiring is equally important. Wear and tear poses a great threat to the safety of the unit and the entire building. Not only is worn electrical wiring a fire hazard, but it wastes a lot of energy.

2. Inspect Water Pressure Levels

Commercial Boilers have a pressure gauge, which should be working well and be clear enough to read. Low or high pressure is a sign of an existing problem. When the gauge measures pressure as too low, the problem a problem may exist in the pipes or the radiators, as is often the case when boilers leak. Maintenance staff should double-check the areas where leaks occur and may need to re-pressurize the boiler. If pressure does not return to normal, there may be a more serious problem.

3. Be aware of the warning signs.

Maintenance staff should never ignore signs like clanging and rattling noises, odors, soot and debris emissions. Noises may be produced by either iron or sludge deposits, a problem which left unchecked, may lead to boiler overheating. In some cases, the unit may shut down on its own. Odor, on the other hand, can mean a gas or oil leak. This complication should be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent a fire hazard and a general loss of fuel.

4. Double check the timer and thermostat.

A problem with the timer or thermostat means that the boiler is not able to distribute temperatures equally. This may also cause a spike in energy consumption, causing utility bills to surge. A simple checking the of the timer and thermostat mechanism will ensure efficient boiler function.

5. Clean parts where dust and dirt accumulate.

Dirt particles may contribute to an overworked system, and should be addressed routinely, as should rust and corrosion, which over time can damage pipes and other metal parts. Depending upon the extent of corrosion, parts may have to be replaced.

Following these simple preventive measures can ensure a building’s safety, as well as cut down significantly on energy costs. Even following these routine tips, though, a facility manager should be aware of when a problem has become particularly complex or beyond their expertise. A professional commercial boiler repair service provider should be contacted immediately, should a serious potential or existing problem be discovered.

Boiler Service and Repair from American Boiler Company: American Boiler Company has over 30 years experience in installing and maintaining boilers, and we’ll work hard to ensure you receive the highest quality service while also saving you money. We always offer free site surveys, and for a limited time new customers can receive a complimentary boiler inspection. Contact us today at 973.923.1999.