Is Your Boiler Not Heating the Water?: Boiler Troubleshooting 101

Every household needs an uninterrupted hot water supply, especially during those frigid winter months. The last thing a homeowner wants when it is freezing outside is a malfunctioning boiler. Boilers are versatile and energy-efficient equipment. With the kind of use a boiler sees in the cold weather, it is not surprising to experience issues sometimes. A leaking or kettling boiler, low boiler pressure, radiator problems, unpleasant noises, boiler breakdown, responsiveness to the thermostat, power loss, frozen condensate pipes, and the pilot light switching off are some of the boiler problems people encounter. 

One such common issue that homeowners face is when the boiler fails to heat water. It causes a lot of inconveniences and requires immediate attention. A single factor is not responsible for a boiler's inability to produce hot water. Let's look into the various reasons behind a boiler not heating the water:

Lack of power

Before exploring the possible causes, first, check if the boiler is receiving power. A boiler not receiving power is one of the issues that restrict it from heating water. Several boilers come with a monitor. If the screen is blank, it indicates a power cut. Wait for the electricity to resume for the boiler to work again. Also, examine the system for a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse that may have disrupted the power supply.

Issues with gas or water supply

All boiler issues are not severe. Sometimes, a simple reason can cause a boiler to malfunction. If the boiler's water supply is disrupted or the gas supply is insufficient, the boiler may not heat water. Ensure optimum water level in the boiler. Check the gas control valve to ensure it is open, and the gas supply to the system continues uninterrupted. For oil boilers, ensure there is significant fuel in the tank to operate them. 

Look for error code

Modern boilers come with different lights or display screens that show a fault code or illuminate a specific light to indicate a particular issue. Check the user manual or browse the internet to understand the displayed error code and decipher its exact meaning. After identifying the cause, decide whether it requires professional assistance or a simple DIY fix would do.

Boiler controls

If none of the above factors are responsible, check the boiler settings. See that the thermostat is on the heating mode, and the temperature is also correctly set. Also, inspect the boiler pressure and ensure that the setting is as per the manufacturer's recommendations. 

Timer issues

Boilers also use timers to control heat and hot water. Failed batteries, changed settings, clock changes, or power supply may have affected the timer working. Inspect the boiler's control panel to ensure that the hot water timer is working actively. 

Need help with your boiler?

If exploring the above possible causes does not prove helpful, contact a professional HVAC service for assistance. Their technician will quickly inspect the boiler and repair or replace any faulty part to let it function effectively to fulfill the home's hot water demands.

When you need heating or refrigeration service, maintenance or repair, call us at Affordable Comfort A/C and Heating 602-574-1205.