Keeping your LPG boiler well-maintained not only keeps your home warm and comfortable but also saves money on repairs and running costs. Whether you've just installed an LPG boiler or you're looking to improve its performance, this guide walks you through the maintenance steps and tells you when it's time to call in a professional.
LPG Boiler Maintenance Checks
Boiler Pressure
Your boiler's pressure gauge requires regular attention as it's one of the most important indicators of system health. When your system is cold, the pressure reading should sit steadily between 1 and 1.5 bar. Make checking this gauge part of your morning routine, particularly during colder months when your heating system works hardest.
If you notice the pressure has dropped below 1 bar, your system won't run efficiently and may stop working altogether. Similarly, pressure readings above 2.5 bar indicate excessive pressure that could strain your system. Watch for pressure drops that occur repeatedly - even after topping up the system - as these often signal a leak that needs professional investigation.
LPG Tank Inspection
A thorough tank inspection should be carried out monthly, with additional checks after severe weather. Walk the full perimeter of your tank, looking carefully for any signs of damage, rust spots, or corrosion, particularly around seams and connection points. The tank's legs or base should sit firmly on a solid foundation without any tilting or subsidence.
Keep the area around your tank clear of vegetation, ensuring a minimum of 1 metre clearance. Remove any debris, fallen leaves, or overhanging branches that could affect the tank or its pipework. The gas level gauge should be clearly visible and functioning - take regular readings to understand your typical usage patterns. This helps you spot any unusual consumption that might indicate a problem. Also check that the tank's safety information plate remains visible and legible.
Boiler Checks
Developing an awareness of your boiler's normal operating sounds and patterns helps you spot potential issues early. During operation, listen for any new, unusual, or louder-than-normal sounds. Banging, whistling, or gurgling noises often indicate developing problems that warrant professional attention.
Monitor how long your boiler takes to heat your home and hot water. A well-functioning system should maintain fairly consistent timing - if you notice it's taking significantly longer to reach temperature, this could indicate reduced efficiency. Pay attention to your radiators, checking they heat evenly without cold spots. The boiler flame should burn steadily and blue - any yellow or orange tinting needs immediate professional inspection.
Keep a simple log of your observations, noting dates and details of any changes you notice. This information proves invaluable when discussing potential issues with your heating engineer and helps track your system's performance over time.
Annual Servicing
An annual service by a Gas Safe registered engineer is crucial for LPG boiler maintenance. This comprehensive check involves:
- Cleaning internal components
- Inspecting for wear and tear
- Testing gas pressure and flow rates
- Checking for gas leaks
- Ensuring proper combustion
- Verifying safety devices are functioning correctly
This thorough inspection helps prevent breakdowns, maintains efficiency, and ensures safe operation.
Record Keeping
Maintain a simple maintenance log noting your monthly pressure readings and fuel delivery dates. Record any changes you notice in performance or unusual sounds and smells. This information can be invaluable when discussing issues with your heating engineer.
Speak with heating engineers in Harrogate, York and Richmond
For more information on how to look after your LPG boiler, please get in touch with our heating engineers by calling us on 07717574470.
