April 11, 2024

Do Natural Gas Boilers Need to be Cleaned?

Caring for New York’s boilers since 1945

Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate inside a natural gas boiler, particularly in the oil burner and heat exchanger areas. This buildup can restrict airflow and interfere with the combustion process, leading to reduced efficiency. A clean gas boiler saves energy, lowers heating costs, and keeps your business comfortable and safe—which is why annual maintenance by an HVAC technician is essential.

Signs Your Gas Furnace Needs to be Cleaned 

Several signs indicate that a gas fired boiler needs to be cleaned. If you notice any of these red flags, have your boiler inspected and schedule an annual maintenance with a heating system specialist. 

If there’s an unexplained spike in your heating bills, it could be a sign that your boiler has dirt and debris buildup.

The main natural gas supply is essential for providing consistent heat. Rooms may not heat evenly in cold weather if the boiler is struggling to distribute heat due to restricted airflow caused by buildup in the system.

A dusty or musty smell, when the HVAC system is running, could mean dust and debris have accumulated inside the system and are being burned off. During your annual servicing, a qualified technician will remove dust and completely eliminate dirt inside your boiler. 

Excessive rattling, banging, or squealing may indicate that the blower assembly or motor is dirty or malfunctioning.

A natural gas boiler should have a steady blue flame. Yellow or flickering flames could indicate incomplete combustion, which may be caused by dirt or debris blocking the burner orifice. 

Excessive dust around your space could be a sign that your boiler is not effectively filtering and distributing air due to a dirty filter or buildup in the system.

If the boiler turns on and off more frequently than usual, it could be struggling to maintain the desired temperature due to restricted airflow or another issue caused by dirt and debris buildup.

Steps to Take to Keep Gas Boilers Clean 

There are steps you can take to keep your appliance clean and well-maintained. However, if you’re unsure about any aspect of cleaning your boiler, it’s always best to read the owner’s manual and consult a heating system specialist.

  • Before you begin cleaning your boiler, turn off the power to the unit. Locate the power switch or shut off the circuit breaker that controls the boiler.
  • Wait for the boiler to cool down completely before you start cleaning so you don’t get burned.
  • Look at the exterior of the boiler for any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or water leaks. Check the venting system, blower fan, and intake grilles for obstructions or blockages. 
  • Most boilers have panels that can be removed to access the internal components. Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the panels carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Use a small brush or hand-held vacuum with a brush attachment to clean your boiler. Remove dirt, or debris from the burner ports and ensure that they’re clear for proper combustion.
  • Inspect the heat exchanger for any cracks, corrosion, or signs of damage. If you notice any issues, it’s essential to have them repaired by an HVAC technician.
  • Remove dust or debris from the blower blades using a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment. Be careful not to damage the fan blades during cleaning.
  • Check the boiler filter and air filter and replace either if they look dirty or clogged. If the filter is reusable, clean it according to the instructions in the owner’s manual.
  • Inspect the flue pipe for any signs of blockages or damage. Clear any obstructions and ensure that the pipe is securely connected to the boiler and vented properly to the exterior.
  • Once you’ve completed boiler cleaning, reassemble the access panels securely. Turn the power back on and test the boiler to ensure it’s operating correctly.

Annual Service is Essential for Optimal Performance

Natural gas boilers need to be cleaned regularly, which is why proper maintenance is so important. At New York Boiler, we’re here to ensure your space stays warm and comfortable—and we provide prompt and reliable solutions to all your natural gas boiler needs. Schedule your yearly maintenance with a heating system specialist from our team to ensure your boiler continues to operate efficiently and safely. You can contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.