Listen for These Noises from Your Hydronic Boiler in Glenwood Springs, CO

When your brakes squeal, you know you need new brake pads. When your door hinges creak, you know to grab the can of WD-40. What should you do when you hear noises from your hydronic boiler in Glenwood Springs, CO?

That depends. Any heating system makes some noise as it operates. However, certain noises from your hydronic boiler could signify a serious problem. Keep your ear to the ground for the following sounds to determine if your system needs immediate attention.

Banging

If you hear banging or popping noises when your system fires, this indicates kettling. Similar to a tea kettle, the water within the boiler is turning to steam. This is because the boiler is failing to heat the water and then carry it away before it steams.

Kettling is typically caused by insufficient flow. The water isn’t moving fast enough to keep up with the heat the boiler is applying to it. This indicates a problem with the pump. Your system may have closed isolation valves, a broken impeller, a failed pump, debris in the impeller or an undersized pump.

A second, less common possibility is a blocked heat exchanger. The heat exchanger may be coated with debris and unable to properly transfer heat to the water. If the problem is with your heat exchanger, this is more serious and requires immediate attention from a professional.

Growling

Some self-contained units, also called system feeders, generate intermittent humming or growling noises. While it may be annoying, this noise is often harmless. The style of unit simply has noisy pumps. If you want to get rid of the noise for good, consider switching to a more modern pump model.

Whining

If your boiler is whining or screeching, you probably have dry pumps or failed pump bearings. The noise is fairly distinct, and lets you know you need to replace the pump. Contact a professional for repairs to your hydronic boiler in Glenwood Springs, CO.

Hissing

Hissing noises usually indicate one of two problems with your air vents. First, there may be a leak in the system. This causes water to be continually introduced to the system. As a result, the air separators have to do extra work to try to vent the extra water. Second, the air vents may be pulling air into the system rather than releasing it, which will cause corrosion. Since this can cause extensive damage over time, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to correct this situation.

Rushing

The sound of rushing water in your system is called velocity noise. The water is moving too quickly through your system. This is due to an oversized pump or a missing differential pressure bypass. A velocity of greater than eight feet per second can cause damage to pipes, so have this issue repaired right away.

Enjoy the Sound of Silence

If your hydronic boiler in Glenwood Springs, CO is making unpleasant noises, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. The experts at Garrett Hansen Plumbing Inc. are ready to assist you with in-depth hydronic boiler knowledge and superior service. Contact us today!

Categorised in: Hydronic Boilers

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