Commercial boilers are critical to the day-to-day operation of a business, whether producing steam needed for industrial processes or heating for your commercial building. Unfortunately, boilers experience natural wear and tear from the cycles of heating and cooling, and like any other appliance, will become less effective over time. This can result in frequent breakdowns and inefficiencies which will leave your business and operation in a precarious position if not addressed urgently. This is why emergency commercial boiler repairs are so critical to a business. Let’s look at what it entails. 

What does a commercial boiler do?

A commercial boiler refers to a system that enables heating in a non-residential building. The term applies to appliances that either use electricity or fuel to generate steam or hot water. These circulate in the building through a system of pipes to create a comfortable working environment for staff and customers. Some commercial boiler systems make use of natural gas as fuel, whilst others are powered by electricity or burning fuel to generate heat.

 

What are some of the most common boiler issues?

Boiler issues can occur when you least expect them and can have a serious impact on your operation. Luckily, these can often be repaired by commercial boiler engineers, and the most common issues include the following:

Boiler leak

A leaking boiler is never a good sign and will require an emergency industrial boiler repair. Depending on where the water is draining from, the major causes can include a broken internal component like a pressure valve or seal valve. If the leak originates from the pressure valve, there is a possibility of high boiler pressure. Meanwhile, a leaking pump seal indicates that the seal is worn out and needs to be replaced.

Faulty thermostat

When the thermostat on your boiler system is faulty, the boiler tends to switch itself off. This leaves your building with no hot water or heat and may seriously interrupt your operation. In such a case, you will need to call an expert boiler technician to repair or replace the thermostat.

Low pressure

Boiler pressure refers to the pressure of the hot water circulating in the central heating system. Typically, this pressure should be somewhere between 1 and 2 bars on the pressure gauge, but when it falls below 1 bar, the central heating will not function. Nevertheless, you might want to consult the manufacturer to understand the suitable boiler pressure for your system.

Cold radiators

Sometimes, the bottom of the radiator can fail to get warm, which may indicate a sludge build-up in the air system. This might necessitate radiator bleeding or balancing, which you can do without calling a professional. 

Hot water but no heating

When there is no heating in your boiler system, the issues may be the result of a faulty diverter valve that channels water to the hot water cylinder or the heating system.

What are the major causes of commercial boiler breakdown?

Several factors may cause your commercial boiler system to break down. These may vary depending on the type of boiler you have oil, gas, or LPG. Generally, the main reasons for broiler failure include:

  • Blocked condensate due to neglected service
  • Low system pressure
  • Rust and corrosion build up over time
  • Poor installation of the condensate drain pipe
  • Dirty ignition probes
  • Wear and tear

What are the signs you need emergency commercial boiler repair?

While some signs will directly prompt you to get an emergency boiler callout, some can easily be rectified the next day or when your boiler engineer is available as they are minor issues. To be safe, always contact your boiler engineer when you notice any of the following:

Strange noises – If your boiler starts to make unusual noises such as whistling, banging, gurgling, or buzzing, something is definitely amiss somewhere.

Unusual odour – Bad smells coming from your boiler point to an issue that needs urgent attention. This is especially true if you can smell gas, as it shows there is a leak that can be dangerous if left unaddressed. If you smell gas turn off the gas at the mains and contact your boiler engineer immediately. 

High utility bills – When you realise that your heating bill is increasing every month, it’s very likely that the boiler is no longer efficient. You need to call a technician to audit the system and diagnose the problem.

No hot water – Lack of hot water is a clear sign that the boiler is not functioning as it should be and you should contact your boiler engineer to come out and assess what is happening.

Pilot light keeps going off – When the pilot light on your boiler keeps going off, there is probably a blockage in your system or the draught is getting in. Your boiler engineer can quickly diagnose the problem and rectify it for you. 

What are the dangers of ignoring boiler repairs?

Neglecting your boiler repair can result in adverse consequences for your commercial building. This is why you should always contact your local commercial boiler engineers so they can come out and assess what is happening. Failure to act promptly can result in:

Carbon monoxide poisoning – Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can kill you or make you seriously ill gradually and without notice, as it has no colour or smell. Prolonged exposure to the gas can lead to fatalities.

Fires – A faulty boiler can blow and start a fire that can easily rage through your property, causing costly damage or endangering the lives of your customers and employees.

Water damage – Unresolved leakage in your boiler system can damage your walls and ceilings, as well as interfere with your electrical connections which can cause fire and fatalities.

Old age – Sometimes, old age is not just a sign that your boiler needs repair, but replacement. Most commercial boilers last around 15 years and become inefficient beyond this period. Having your commercial boiler serviced regularly will help to prolong its life and negate the need of replacing it early.

How long does a commercial boiler last?

Most commercial boilers have a life expectancy of around fifteen years. However, this will depend on how well you maintain the system throughout its life cycle. If you ignore emergency commercial boiler repairs, then you might find yourself replacing it even sooner.

How do I extend the life of my commercial boiler?

The best way to prolong the shelf life of your commercial broiler is through regular maintenance. This involves getting an emergency boiler callout any time you suspect something is wrong and having it serviced regularly. An engineer or boiler technician will inspect the system to diagnose any urgent problems and conduct relevant repairs to ensure efficient and durable functionality.

Fast Emergency Commercial Boiler Repairs Summary

When your commercial boiler starts going wrong, it is critical to get an emergency industrial boiler repair to avoid interrupting your business operation and putting your building and staff at risk. It is only through proper maintenance that your boiler will function efficiently without breakdowns. Be sure to contact your local commercial boiler engineer whenever necessary to ensure business continuity.

Total Boiler Services offer an emergency boiler repair service as well as boiler maintenance contracts which will ensure your boiler remains in good working and efficient order. Contact us today at 02922 407934 and one of our team can arrange a service, repair or emergency repair. 

Our professional and qualified boiler engineers work with all types, makes and models of boilers offering installation, repair and maintenance services for gas, electric, oil and LPG boilers.