Hydronic heating systems have endured for a long time. They have provided warm and comfortable homes to many homeowners. These units provide the occupants’ needs without filling their homes with indoor air pollutants and drafts like what happens with forced-air HVAC systems that don’t get regular air filter replacements. However, a hydronic heating system still requires proper service and maintenance to ensure it delivers what is expected from it. The good news is a homeowner that is armed with the right information can do a lot when it comes to hot water heating system upkeep. Continue reading to learn what you can do to properly maintain your hydronic hot water system.
Best Ways to Maintain Your Hydronic Heating System
Table of Contents
Breaking down your hydronic heating system maintenance into two categories is the best approach to take. The first group is the tasks that a professional needs to handle, while the other are steps homeowners can do.
Why Do I Need Professional Help When Maintaining My Hydronic Heating System?
Professional HVAC system maintenance helps lighten homeowners’ burdens. An HVAC professional has the training and experience to conduct a thorough system inspection. Therefore, homeowners should book yearly inspections from licensed technicians to ensure system efficiency and home comfort.
To set an example, boiler maintenance helps keep potential heating issues from happening in the first place. It also prevents small problems from worsening, which commonly occurs when these small issues are ignored. As a result, homeowners enjoy cost savings and peace of mind. Here is a list of several benefits you get from yearly radiant heating system inspections:
- Hydronic Heating System Tune-up: The system receives an overall inspection and the necessary tune-ups in problematic areas.
- Expansion Tank: An assessment and recharging of the air charge occur. The tank is also inspected closely, and all air vent obstructions are removed.
- Pressure valve relief: The valve is checked to ensure proper operations. The stagnant water is also removed.
- Hydronic Glycol: An examination of the fluid pH is done. If there is degradation, the fluid needs to be recharged.
- Drain Faucets & Shut-off: Faucets replacement and repairs are conducted when necessary.
- Combustion: An HVAC professional conducts proper adjustments on the safety controls. They also conduct checks for leaks or blockages, and the burner is cleaned per the specifications.
- Circulator: The circulator and zone valves are inspected to ensure they operate properly.
- Wiring: An examination of the system wiring is conducted to ensure conductivity and continuity.
- Valves: The system’s valves are thoroughly checked for correct function.
This is not an exhaustive list, but it reinforces how necessary it is to have an annual hydronic heating system inspection. Professional HVAC technicians will conduct the proper upkeep and alleviate homeowners’ concerns. Additionally, homeowners can also do several tasks to maintain their systems.
Hydronic Heating System Tasks For Homeowners
Homeowners can also contribute to the direct upkeep of their systems. Individuals have varying capabilities, so it is best to consult a professional whenever you are unsure. Here is a list of what you can do to be proactive in your system maintenance process:
- Stay vigilant and watch out for any signs of problems.
- Habitually conduct a system overview every month.
- Examine the boiler or furnace for rust buildups and calcium deposits. Neglecting your heating system accounts for a large portion of the problems your system encounters.
- Conduct regular water level checks. A boiler won’t be able to handle the heat it generates if its water level gets too low so make sure it has the appropriate water levels.
- Get rid of rust buildups or calcium deposits using a solution of vinegar and baking soda. You can also use other approved cleansers and a gentle scouring tool.
- If you are experienced with working on the system, you can drain the boiler and add oil to the pump motor for enhanced circulation. These should be conducted according to the instructions of the manufacturer.
This is an incomplete list, like the list regarding professional assistance. However, it is a good starting point for homeowners to get involved with their system maintenance. It also helps them learn as they familiarize themselves with their systems.
Becoming Familiar With Your Hydronic Heating System
Homeowners realize that they help themselves in crucial ways when they are involved with the maintenance of their systems. Here is a list of how people can learn more about their hot water home heating system and how they can help in its maintenance:
- Pay attention: Homeowners can learn a lot from watching their system’s operation. Therefore, it is recommended that they observe their system so they become familiar with its parts, the usual noises it makes, and other factors.
- Talk to others: You may know other people who have the same system as you. Talk to them so you can learn more information about the similar systems you have.
- Check Online: The internet contains a myriad of information about your system. Surfing the internet can help you learn much about it.
- Read the owner’s manual: Many homeowners receive manuals when they get their system installed. It is prudent that they read and familiarize themselves with these manuals.
- Schedule HVAC inspections: Homeowners who book HVAC inspections once a year or call professionals for assistance can learn a lot from them. Technicians are typically more than happy to share insights and guidance.
The curious have many sources available to them. The more information you come across, the more you familiarize yourself with your system. You also grow more skillful when it comes to system maintenance. As a result, you save more in the tune-up process.
Conclusion
Make it a habit to maintain your hydronic heating system properly. Conduct inspections once a month and sign up for yearly maintenance check-ups with a professional. These should be part of your routine. Homeowners can discover many ways you can maintain their systems as they grow more comfortable with the maintenance process. Remember that maintenance helps you reap benefits like improved home comfort, reduced energy costs, increased energy efficiency, and less need for HVAC repairs.
Call Skylands Energy Service For All Your HVAC Needs
Call Skylands Energy Service when you need superior HVAC services throughout central New Jersey. We hire the best professionally certified technicians who can perform top-notch heating and cooling maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. All our friendly techs have the knowledge, skills, and experience to conduct accurate and prompt HVAC services to your system.
For highly competitive HVAC service prices, call Skylands Energy Service. Our tune-up services help enhance your home’s comfort and increase energy efficiency while lowering your energy costs. If you need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can provide you with the best solution within your budget. Your satisfaction is important to us, so we back all of our work with a guarantee. Contact Skylands Energy Service to schedule your next service appointment. We offer free, in-home estimates. Call now!
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!