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Why is My Boiler Making Strange Noises? What Homeowners Should Know
Have you noticed your residential boiler making unusual sounds, like banging, gurgling or humming? It’s possible that these noises are more than just a nuisance. They could also be early indicators that your boiler isn’t working the way it’s supposed to and may require either repair or replacement.
Boiler Making Noise? Here’s Why
A critical aspect of boiler maintenance and upkeep is knowing some of the most common issues that can arise.
- Kettling. For a boiler making noise, kettling is one of the most common explanations. This phenomenon occurs when limestone or some other type of mineral builds up on the heat exchanger. Water can get trapped beneath these mineral deposits, and when the heating element is activated it can create a rumbling or kettle-like sound. When left unaddressed, kettling can reduce long-term efficiency and potentially lead to further damage.
- Air trapped in the system. Another issue that can result in your boiler making noise is when air gets trapped. Trapped air can cause gurgling or bubbling any time water tries to circulate. You may need to bleed the system in order to restore normal water flow.
- Circulator pump issues. A sluggish circulator pump can also result in unusual noises, and in a performance decrease. When the pump starts to fail, it typically causes vibrating, grinding or humming. Without proper boiler maintenance, a limping circulator pump can compromise your household comfort and efficiency.
- Sediment buildup. Sediment buildup is a common problem among older systems, or in regions with hard water. As debris accrues along the bottom of the boiler, it causes popping or crackling sounds. This can also be an early warning sign of uneven performance, making it important to pursue regular boiler maintenance.
Many of these issues can be resolved by a professional, who can also advise you on when it might be more prudent to have an older boiler replaced. Check out our directory to find a licensed Bradford White professional near you. Want to learn more about Bradford White’s robust boiler offering? Visit Commercial Boilers & Volume Water Heaters – Bradford White Water Heaters today.