Using Gas and Oil Boilers

Quickly repair and maximize the use of gas and oil boilers
By Thomas Langford When they are working properly, gas and oil boilers are easy to forget about. But when they break down, fuel oil boilers and natural gas boilers can cause major problems for your business. So from the moment you find a new oil or gas boiler for sale, you should start taking steps to ensure it will run properly for many years.

As you've probably guessed by now, using gas and oil boilers means you need to do more than just buy them and get them installed. You should also:

1. Be ready to make minor repairs to gas and oil boilers.

2. Have a boiler repair service on call for preventative maintenance and major emergency repairs.

3. Ensure your oil and natural gas boilers are as energy efficient as possible.

Stock basic parts for minor repairs to gas and oil boilers

With oil and gas boiler prices what they are these days, you might be inclined to purchase a new boiler, and buy nothing else. However, you'd be wise to also buy some basic spare parts so that you have them on hand in case repairs are needed.
Try:  Dan Friedman's InspectAPedia has an excellent diagram that shows the basic components of boilers, such as a gas steam boiler. It also explains what the parts are for and gives basic troubleshooting information. To find a distributor of boiler parts in your area, use the directory from the HVAC Web Connection.

Conduct preventative maintenance on gas and oil boilers

When your oil or gas steam boilers break, you're going to want them fixed as fast as possible. This is why it is important to have an established relationship with a qualified boiler repair service. Purchasing a boiler service contract for preventative maintenance and emergency repairs is an excellent way to connect with a repair technician before disaster strikes.
Try:  The Virginia Community Association Network explains how to establish a good preventative maintenance program for your boilers. If you don't know of a boiler service provider near you, use the listing from Reed Business Information to find one.

Keep your gas and oil boilers running efficiently

Whether your gas and oil boilers are brand new or decades old, you'll want to make sure they are running as efficiently as possible. This can save you money on your utility bills and keep your boiler from wearing out before its time. Ways to boost efficiency include inspecting for leaks, making sure your boilers are properly insulated and installing heat recovery systems. These tips generally apply to commercial and residential oil boilers and gas boilers and even high-efficiency gas boilers.
Try:  Good tips on maximizing the efficiency of your boilers are available from the Natural Gas Boiler Burner Consortium. Find similar advice at Saturn Resource Management.

• When hiring professionals to service gas and oil boilers, make sure they are properly licensed and insured.