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3 Ways to Prevent Boiler Failure

By on Apr 11, 2024 in Boiler Inspections | 0 comments

Service Worker Inspecting Boilers

Boilers are one of the most popular heating systems in the United States. While boilers tend to last long, they still require regular maintenance and service. If you don’t take preventive measures, you risk suffering boiler explosion accidents or other safety issues. In this blog, we share the common signs of boiler failure, effective ways to avoid boiler malfunctions, and some tips for selecting a reliable boiler service provider. 

Common Causes of Boiler Failure 

A failing boiler is not only a safety issue but can also result in costly repairs and disruption to business operations. One of the most common causes of boiler failure is corrosion, which happens when the moisture in the boiler reacts with the metal. This can result in leakage issues as corrosion weakens the boiler components High-pressure water or steam can also result in erosion, which can lead to component failures over time. You can minimize boiler failure due to corrosion or erosion by getting regular water treatment. 

Another common cause of boiler failure is scaling or deposit buildup. This issue leads to blockages or overheating. If this issue is not fixed, it can lead to boiler failure. If the boiler doesn’t get enough air due to flame issues or improved venting, that could also lead to boiler failure. 

Three Effective Ways For Boiler Failure Prevention

As the property owner, if you take good care of the boiler, you can maximize its performance, efficiency, and longevity. With a properly functioning boiler, you also get reduced downtime, which is often an important objective of commercial buildings. While there are many ways to keep the boiler in good condition, here are the top three most effective ways to prevent boiler breakdowns: 

Regular Inspections and Testing

One of the best ways to prevent boiler failure is to get regular inspections and testing from an experienced technician from a reputed company. New York requires building owners to have annual boiler testing. Some commercial boilers or high-pressure boilers may require even more frequent inspection. These laws and regulations are in place to ensure building owners do not get complacent in their boiler maintenance. While it’s important to stay compliant with the laws, regular inspection and testing offer the added benefit of preventing boiler failure. 

The inspector can check several components of the boiler to ensure they are in good working condition. Any damages or broken components can be repaired or replaced before the issue worsens in a boiler failure, or other types of problems. The maintenance service should include inspection and cleaning of the burners and boiler tubes to ensure maximum efficiency and performance. 

Testing the pressure and temperature and the boiler water conductivity is vital to ensure they are within manufacturer-recommended limits. The inspector can ensure the pressure relief safety valve and other safety devices are in good condition. This can help prevent catastrophic process equipment failure in boilers. 

Proper Water Treatment

The quality of the water can play a key role in the performance and longevity of the boiler—water issues are the top causes of boiler problems. The buildup of scale, fouling, or corrosion can be prevented through proper water treatment. A comprehensive water treatment program includes chemical testing and water softening to maximize the lifespan of the boiler system and ensure optimum efficiency. In some cases, there could be issues with the boiler feedwater that flows to the boiler room. 

Ensuring Proper Ventilation and Air Supply

Proper ventilation and air supply to the boiler are important in preventing boiler failure as they boost combustion efficiency and prevent overheating and buildup of moisture. Insufficient combustion can also cause the production of harmful byproducts such as sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide. The gasses can also dissolve and cause a number of problems. 

For example, the dissolved oxygen can reach the carbon steel to cause oxygen pitting, eventually leading to leakage issues. Experienced boiler technicians understand the ventilation requirements and can check your system to ensure it meets the boiler safety standards.

Maximize Boiler Safety in New York City 

To get boiler service from trained and experienced technicians in New York City, get scheduled service with us at New York Boiler, Inc. We have proudly gained a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy boiler supplier by delivering outstanding results for over six decades. 

With our comprehensive range of boiler repair services, we can ensure the boiler at your property is functioning properly and free of risk. Our team is experienced in all types of boilers, including steam boilers, and can guide you on boiler safety precautions to ensure there is no risk of failure.