The hydronic heating system has withstood the test of time, rewarding homeowners with warm and comfortable homes during the winter. They meet the needs of people without having to worry about ductwork leaks and air pollutants, which are common with forced-air HVAC systems that don’t receive regular HVAC air filter replacements. However, similar to automobiles, hydronic heating systems should be properly serviced and maintained to work as expected. Luckily, homeowners can be proactive players in maintaining their hydronic heating system, especially when armed with the correct information. This article discusses the best ways to maintain a hydronic hot water system.
Best Ways to Maintain Your Hydronic Heating System
Contents
Hydronic heating system maintenance is categorized into two categories: tasks that require professional expertise and tasks that homeowners can perform.
Why Is Professional Help Important In Hydronic Heating System Maintenance?
Professionals who conduct HVAC system maintenance help lighten the homeowners’ burdens. HVAC professionals are trained and experienced, so they can inspect your system carefully using their trained eyes. Therefore, homeowners should make it a point that their system receives annual checkups from licensed technicians to promote the system’s efficiency and their home comfort.
For instance, boiler upkeep helps keep potential problems at bay. It also prevents small problems from becoming bigger, a common occurrence when small issues are ignored. It ensures that the heating system can provide ample heat while using less fuel. Without maintenance, your home heating system will not be able to perform efficiently, even if it has a high AFUE rating. Regular maintenance will reward homeowners with peace of mind and cost savings.
Here are some of the advantages linked to annual radiant heating system inspection and maintenance:
- Hydronic Heating System Tune-Up: This includes a complete inspection of the system and upkeep of required components.
- Expansion Tank: The professional assesses and recharges the air charge. They also inspect the tank, and tune-up ensures that there are no blocked air vents.
- Pressure Valve Relief: The professional inspects the valve to verify proper operations and removes any stagnant water.
- Hydronic Glycol: An examination of the fluid pH is done to determine if there is degradation, which translates to the need to recharge the fluid.
- Drain Faucets & Shut-off: Faucet repairs or replacements are done as needed.
- Combustion: An HVAC professional correctly adjusts the safety controls. They will also check for leaks or clogs. The burner is cleaned according to the specifications as well.
- Circulator: The circulator and zone valves are examined to ensure proper function.
- Wiring: Wires throughout the system are inspected to verify their continuity and conductivity.
- Valves: All valves are inspected carefully to ensure they work as expected.
This is not a complete list, but it does drive the point of needing to have your hydronic heating system inspected at least once a year. HVAC technicians will do these tasks correctly and ease the worries of homeowners. Aside from professionals and their expertise, individuals can also do many tasks to maintain their hot water home heating systems.
Hydronic Heating System Tasks For Homeowners
Homeowners can do more direct tasks with system upkeep in addition to having a professional help them. People have varying capability levels, so it is best to consult a professional if you are unsure. Here is a list of some steps a homeowner can do to be proactive in the maintenance process:
- Stay vigilant and be on the lookout for signs of trouble.
- Make it a habit to conduct monthly system overviews.
- Examine the boiler or furnace for rust accumulation and calcium deposits. Neglecting their boilers accounts for a significant amount of problems the system experiences.
- Perform regular water level checks. A too-low water level in your boiler means it cannot deal with the heat it produces. Make sure the system is filled up to adequate levels.
- Use a vinegar and baking soda solution to get rid of calcium deposits or rust buildups. You can also try using industry-approved cleansers and a soft scouring tool. Experienced individuals can also drain the boiler and add oil to the pump motor to improve circulation. Make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when undertaking this step.
Once again, this is not an exhaustive task list, similar to the first list above. However, it is helpful for homeowners as it provides them with a starting point for participating in the care of their system. It also lets people learn more about their systems. giving them the opportunity to become more familiar with them.
Becoming Familiar With Your Hydronic Heating System
Once you become part of your system maintenance, you realize you can help yourself in crucial ways. This list includes some tasks individuals can do to have more knowledge regarding their hydronic heating system and help in its upkeep.
- Pay attention: Homeowners can learn a lot from watching how their system functions. Observe the system to familiarize yourself with its different parts, usual noises, and other aspects.
- Talk to others: You may know other people who have the same system as you. Therefore, you should become a sponge regarding the know-how your friends and neighbors will share about the system.
- Look up information online: The world wide web is full of information that the curious can take advantage of in their search for knowledge about their system.
Read owner’s manuals: Many people receive manuals with system installation. Reading these manuals is a wise step to take. - HVAC Inspections: Schedule inspections once a year or consult with professionals for help. You can learn a lot from them during these times, as technicians are typically glad to guide you and share insights.
Many sources of information are available if you look for them. The more information we come across, the more we become familiar with our systems. You will also grow more skillful in maintaining your system, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency in the process.
Conclusion
It is important to make hydronic heating system maintenance a habit. Routinely conduct inspections once a month and schedule annual maintenance checks with a professional. Homeowners will slowly grow more comfortable in doing the maintenance process and discover many ways to help in the upkeep. Some advantages they will receive include better efficiency, enhanced comfort, lower energy bills, and keeping HVAC repairs at bay.
Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning For All Your HVAC Requirements
For superior HVAC services in the Greater Princeton, NJ area, get in touch with PFO Heating & Air Conditioning. Our professionally certified and highly skilled technicians can perform high-quality HVAC services, including repairs, maintenance, replacements, and installations. We only hire the best techs who are knowledgeable and experienced in servicing your HVAC system correctly.
PFO Heating & Air Conditioning offers the most competitive HVAC service rates in the locality. Our tune-up services can increase your home’s efficiency and comfort while lowering your heating and cooling bills. If your HVAC system needs repair or replacement, we can recommend the best and most budget-friendly solutions. To ensure your satisfaction, all our work is guaranteed. Give PFO Heating & Air Conditioning today to book your next service appointment and get a free, in-home estimate. Click the link to view our service area.
Click here to contact us now or call us at (800) 253-9001 to find out more!