Heating Repair Basics

Step 1 – In many older homes, it quite common for heating pipes to retain air after remaining unused throughout the summer months. But did you know you should always release this air? Bleeding your pips is essential to maintaining a properly working system.

Step 2 – While the heat is off, head down to the basement and inspect the expansion tank. This device will be located near the furnace. These tanks always connect to the furnace. The pipe you see running out of the tank is used for the baseboard heat. Your tank will ideally hold half water / half air. Tape the tank to see whether it appears hollow. In addition, you will need to check the pressure gauge attached to the furnace. If it happens to say zero, you are out of water, and thus there is no pressure available. Open the valve and allow water in until the pressure gauge reads around 12 to 15.

Step 3 – Locate your bleeder valve that is connected to the baseboard heat. This will be on the elbow section of the pipe. If you happen to have a second floor, you will need to bleed that value as well.

Step 4 – Let the bleeding begin! Adjust your thermostat way up in order to kick on the heat. You may hear a sloshing water-type sound, but there is no need to worry. Leave your heat on a minute or so in order to build pressure.

Step 5 – While your heat is still running, open the valve. You should hear a hissing sound as the air is released. Take your time and wait a while. Water by escape with the air. Have a bundle of rags or old towels handy to soak up any water. Once you see that straight water is the only thing coming out, close the valve.

Step 6 – Now check to see that the heat is working properly. If not, repeat steps 3,4, and 5. It may take several attempts to obtain the desired results. Be patient and stick with it.

In cases where you’ve exhausted the process, you may decide to call in a heating repair professional technician. These individuals are experienced in dealing with a variety of systems and should be able to at least diagnose the problem, if not fix it entirely during their first visit.