Boilers serve as one of the most efficient forms of heating in Bergen County, NJ there is. Not only that, but these systems are incredibly durable and long-lasting. That doesn’t mean, however, they’re immune to any problems at all.
Scaling is one of those problems. In fact, we’re here to say that if your boiler is experiencing scaling, it’s certainly a problem! Fortunately, it’s one of the most common problems that boiler users experience.
What happens is that high levels of minerals in the water, like calcium and magnesium (which make up what we call hard water) gets left behind in the boiler’s tank and tubes, and eventually this turns to scale and leads to a reduction in heat along with a loud banging noise.
Scaling Can Be Dangerous
We aren’t saying that scaling is a threat to you or your family, but it absolutely is a threat to your boiler system itself. It’s in danger of breaking down or even leaking water into your home, which can lead to subsequent damage. The best thing you can do if you suspect scaling is to give our pros a call.
Of course, it’d probably be helpful to know what you’re looking for, right? Scaling presents itself as a white or yellowish buildup, and you’ll most often see it around faucets or showerheads. If you have this scale anywhere in your home, it means you’re suffering from hard water and your boiler is at risk.
At first, what happens is that small chunks of granular deposits will collect at the bottom of the boiler tank. Over time, these deposits coat the tank and the tubes, adding an extra layer to the inside. The longer boiler scaling happens, the tougher it is to remove.
How Scaling Damages the Boiler Tank
Scale can do a good deal of damage to the tank of your boiler. As sediment falls and settles at the bottom of this tank, it becomes harder for the burners to actually heat the water. As a result, you’ll notice your boiler doesn’t keep you as warm as it used to.
As heat tries to reach the water, bubbles can escape through the tank, rattling the sediment. This sediment can wear down the lining of the tank, allowing for corrosion to occur much sooner than expects.
How Scaling Damages the Tubing
The same scale that damages the tank also can damage the tubes and pipes which allow water to move from the boiler to the rooms of your home. The scale buildup acts as an insulator that keeps heat from moving properly through your living space.
This will eventually cause the tube to overheat and crack. If they don’t crack, scale can build up to the point that it restricts water from moving through the pipes, causing problems for the whole boiler system.
You can keep this scale buildup under control by contacting our professionals for routine maintenance once a year, and repairs when needed!
DB Heating & Cooling, Inc serves the heating and cooling needs of customers throughout Rockland County, NY as well as Bergen County, NJ and surrounding communities. You can count on us for expert services. Contact us today!