How often you should check your boiler

The boiler is a fundamental part of our home, especially in winter, as it provides us with heat and hot water. If we want to make the most of its functionality and for it to last for many years, it is important to carry out a regular check-up. But how often should we do it? In this post, we tell you how often you should check your boiler, so that you never forget.

How a boiler works

Before going into detail about how often you should check your boiler, it is important to be clear about what a boiler is and how it works. A boiler is an appliance that uses a fuel to heat water and produce steam, whether it is gas, oil or biomass. This steam is then distributed through the pipes of the house to heat it.

A boiler is a device that heats water using fuel, whether gas, electricity or biomass. The hot water generated by the boiler can be used for both heating and domestic hot water supply.

The operation of a boiler is relatively simple. The fuel used is burned in a combustion chamber, generating heat. This heat is transferred to the water contained in the boiler system through heat exchangers. Once the water has been heated, it is distributed through the heating network or stored in a tank for later use.

Frequency of boiler checks

Regular servicing of the boiler is crucial to ensure its correct operation, prevent breakdowns and guarantee safety in the home. The frequency of these checks may vary depending on the type of boiler and local regulations, but in general it is recommended that they are carried out at least once a year.

In the case of gas boilers, a check is mandatory every two years. This check should be carried out by a specialised and authorised technician, who will verify the condition of the boiler, check the correct combustion of the gas, clean the components if necessary and carry out the corresponding maintenance actions.

In addition, a complete inspection of the gas installation must be carried out every five years. In this case, a more complete inspection is carried out to ensure that the pipes, valves and fittings and the meter are working properly. This inspection is carried out by the gas distribution company, which must notify you three months before the inspection.

In the case of other fuels such as gas oil or pellets, the frequency of inspections may be different. In the case of Ecoforest pellet boilers, the inspection must be carried out once a year, at the end of the winter season, or every 500 kg of fuel consumed.

In addition to annual inspections, it is important to pay attention to possible signs of boiler malfunction. If you notice strange smells, abnormal noises, reduced performance or any other worrying symptoms, it is advisable to contact a professional to have the boiler checked as soon as possible.

Remember that keeping your boiler in good condition and carrying out regular checks not only guarantees its optimal operation, but also contributes to energy efficiency and energy savings in your home. Don’t neglect to check your boiler and enjoy a safe and efficient heating system all year round.

How to keep your boiler in good condition

Keeping your boiler in good condition is key to a long boiler life. While every boiler is different and will need different maintenance, there are some general tips that can help keep your boiler in good condition:

Regular cleaning: Keep the boiler and its surroundings clean and free of dust and dirt. Regularly clean the filters and air ducts to ensure proper air flow and avoid blockages.

Pressure check: Regularly check the pressure of the boiler water system. If the pressure is too low, there may be a leak or a problem in the system. If it is too high, you can bleed off the excess water or contact a technician to fix it.

Proper venting: Make sure the boiler has good ventilation for combustion. Exhaust and air intake ducts should be clean and clear to avoid blockages.

Frost protection: If you live in an area where temperatures can drop considerably, it is important to protect your boiler against freezing. Make sure water pipes are well insulated and consider using thermostats or temperature control systems to prevent freeze damage.

Responsible use: Use the boiler responsibly and avoid overloading it. Be sure to adjust the temperature and heating times to suit your needs. Avoid sudden temperature changes and turn the boiler off when not needed for extended periods of time.

Professional maintenance: In addition to the annual check-ups, consider scheduling preventive maintenance by a specialised technician from time to time. This service will include a more thorough cleaning, adjustments and additional checks to ensure optimal boiler performance.

By following these tips and performing the appropriate checks and maintenance, you will be taking care of your boiler and ensuring its efficient and safe performance. Remember to always rely on authorised professionals for any work related to your boiler.

Now that you know when to check your boiler and how to look after it to keep it in good shape, don’t forget to take care of it so that it doesn’t lose effectiveness and always works at its maximum output.