Servicing Gas Heating Equipment
Overview
Gas heating equipment is very common and when serviced properly, gas heating equipment is clean, efficient and quiet. In order to keep this equipment operating properly it is important to have the system thoroughly serviced at the beginning of each heating season. Some systems are used year round and those systems should be checked twice a year.
It is very important to keep the area where the boiler is located clear from combustible materials and flammable vapors. The boiler area should also have a good air supply for combustion and ventilation.
Servicing Steps
The steps required to properly service gas fired heating equipment include:
- Check the thermostat for proper operation by turning the switch to heat and moving the lever above the room temperature. Verify that the heating system starts and the fan should run after a short delay. Turn the thermostat back down below room temperature and verify that the heating systems turns off. The fan will run for a short time and then shut off.
- turn the power off to the unit
- turn off the gas supply to the unit
- check all electrical wiring for frayed insulation, proper connections and tighten as needed
- change air filter
- check blower belts for wear, tightness and change at least annually
- check motor and blower bearings and lubricate as needed
- clean blower wheel and compartment and check for balance
- remove burner assembly
- clean burner logs and pilot
- clean heat exchanger
- turn power and gas back on to check combustion adjust flame and verify all safeties are working properly.
Summary
Proper maintenance of your heating equipment will keep your system running efficiently and reduce your energy consumption thus saving you money.
