During the hot days of summer, your furnace’s boiler system was probably the farthest thing from your mind. But now that the cold, snowy winter weather is here, you want to make sure that it’s running as smoothly as possible. Chances are good that you’ve had your chimney and fireplace inspected; every fireplace owner knows how important it is for the safety and efficiency of your home that you have this important service completed so that creosote doesn’t build up and no other damage exists. But most people aren’t aware that your boiler deserves the same treatment.

Boiler SystemService the boiler this winter

There are several things you can do on your own to make sure that your furnace’s boiler system is running correctly. Make sure that the temperature and pressure readings are at the correct levels by checking the pressure and temperature gauges. If you have an oil burner, which is one of the more popular types of boiler systems, you’ll want to make sure that the filter is cleaned and that it is changed at least once a year. You’ll need to turn the boiler off first and also shut off the oil supply by turning the oil shut-off valve before making the change.

One of the dangers of having a boiler that isn’t working correctly is that carbon monoxide can build up. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that needs to be vented properly. This is because, if left to build up, it can cause major health issues. Some symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, shortness of breath, and confusion. Extended exposure can cause loss of consciousness and, if left undiscovered, can lead to death. This is another reason it is so crucial that you keep your boiler in excellent working condition and that you have your venting system inspected by professionals on an annual basis. It’s also important to make sure that you have a carbon monoxide detector and that the batteries in this appliance are working and up-to-date.

It’s a good idea to try your boiler out to make sure that it’s working properly. Listen to make sure that it isn’t making any odd noises and that it is producing heat. Odd noises and lack of heat are signs that you may need to be calling a repair specialist in to take a look at your system.

Call Alpine Chimney Sweeps

There are lots of things you can do to check out your boiler system. The owner’s manual is a good place to look to find out some do-it-yourself checks. But there are some things that are best left to a professional, and that’s why you should give Alpine Chimney Sweeps a call. We can check out your boiler system to make sure that it is safe and efficient so that you can rest easy, knowing that your family is staying warm safely all winter long.