7 DIY Furnace Maintenance Tips That Can Save You Money

It’s no secret that furnace maintenance can save you money. An annual tune-up can improve efficiency and avoid major repairs and early replacement. But it’s not the only way to care for your furnace. Many DIY furnace maintenance steps are effective. We’ll look at simple ways you can maintain your heating system throughout the year and some more advanced tasks to take on if you’re comfortable.

1. Replace the Air Filter

The air filter traps contaminants such as dust and pollen to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and strain your furnace. The filter should be replaced every three months or whenever it’s dirty or clogged. When changing it, note the filter’s length, width, and depth (it’s usually printed on the side of the filter) or measure it, as you’ll need to install a filter of the same size. 

The filter slot should be where the return air duct connects to the furnace. This is usually on the side near the bottom. Open the door or panel covering the filter and remove the old one. When inserting the new filter, make sure the arrows on it point toward the furnace.

2. Change the Oil Filter

If you have an oil furnace, the oil filter prevents impurities from blocking the oil burner nozzle. A clogged nozzle can cause a misfire. The system will then shut down. Replacing the oil filter requires closing the oil valve, removing the dirty filter, and disposing of it in compliance with your area’s hazardous waste regulations. Then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing a new oil filter.

3. Keep the Exterior Clean

Dirt and dust on your furnace can get inside and make it inefficient. Cleaning outer surfaces is simple. You can use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clean the metal case. Clean the area around the unit too. 

There also shouldn’t be any clutter nearby, which can inhibit airflow or make it hazardous to work around your furnace. Remove boxes, tools, or toys. In addition, vacuum floor registers and then remove them to vacuum out duct connection points as well. This can improve efficiency and indoor air quality.

4. Clean the Air Registers

Air registers throughout your home tend to collect dust, lint, pet hair, and other debris. If a register is clogged, it can restrict airflow, similar to a blocked filter. Therefore, the furnace will work harder to maintain the set temperature, so maintenance isn’t limited to the unit itself or its immediate surroundings. All registers should be removed and cleaned with a high-power vacuum.

5. Check the Flue Pipe

The flue connects the furnace to its exhaust system. Remove any debris blocking it and look for cracks or other signs of damage. Any issues can cause harmful gases to leak into your home, including deadly carbon monoxide. Dirt or debris can be removed from the flue pipe by removing the access panel and using a brush or vacuum with an attachment. Reattach the panel when you’re done.

Inspect the outside of the flue pipe. If there are small holes, they can be patched temporarily with foil tape. But if there are larger areas of damage or corrosion, call a professional to repair or replace the flue.

6. Clean the Furnace Drain Pipes

The condensate lines of a high-efficiency furnace remove excess moisture. If they get clogged, water can back up and cause a leak. The condensate line is usually connected to a floor drain or external outlet near the furnace. To clean it, disconnect the line from both ends and flush out debris using either a gentle stream of water or a vacuum hose. If the line is clogged with mineral deposits, clear it with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.

7. Clean the Flame Sensor, Pilot, and Ignitor

Only access the inside of the furnace if you’re comfortable doing so. The inner workings are quite sensitive. They are also prone to getting dirty. With the furnace’s power and gas supply off, remove the access panel and locate the flame sensor near the burner assembly. Remove the sensor gently and clean any debris with a soft cloth or fine-grit sandpaper. Then reinsert the sensor and make sure it’s secure.

Next, remove dust or dirt from the pilot light with a small brush or compressed air. Depending on your furnace model, the pilot assembly may have to be removed for cleaning. Also, clean the ignitor, which is a critical combustion component, and check for cracks or other signs of damage. Check the wiring connections for signs of corrosion or looseness as well.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing ’s Furnace Maintenance Professionals

Our technicians are experienced in maintaining, installing, and repairing many types of heating systems. You can save money by properly caring for your furnace throughout the year. We also recommend scheduling maintenance in the fall so the unit runs smoothly all winter. Our comprehensive maintenance services help avoid major repairs and breakdowns and extend your furnace’s operating life. To schedule maintenance or other heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (415) 223-5615 today.

 

Do I Need a Professional Furnace Cleaner?

Cleaning a furnace requires time and effort and is not a simple undertaking. Therefore, you should consider hiring a professional furnace cleaner at least once a year. It can be part of your annual heating maintenance visit. Other than changing the filter, which is simple, you should rely on a trained technician for more complex furnace and heating services.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Furnace Cleaner

Furnace maintenance keeps your heating unit running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It can prevent big repairs and give your furnace a few more years of life. A thorough furnace cleaning has many benefits. We’ll now look at why you need a professional to help keep your furnace clean:

  • Keep the Warranty Valid: Furnace cleanings may be required annually, depending on the warranty. Neglecting to hire a professional to clean the unit can void the warranty. Therefore, it won’t provide coverage to repair a major issue related to accumulated dirt and debris.
  • Improved Efficiency: Dirty burners, sensors, blower assemblies, heat exchangers, vents, and other components cause your furnace to work harder. The more it runs, the more energy and fuel it uses. This means regular cleanings can maximize efficiency so you pay less for your monthly utility bills. Your furnace can operate in shorter, more regular cycles to provide a comfortable temperature.
  • Cleaner Furnaces Burn Cleaner: Dust, debris, and carbon buildup on burners and inside the combustion chamber can contribute to the release of pollutants. A thorough cleaning removes the buildup to protect the air quality in your home and the environment in general. It can also prevent gases and fumes from building up and leaking into your home.
  • A Safer Home: Dirt in ignition components, the burner assembly, and the heat exchanger can interfere with how your furnace works and create various safety hazards. A professional furnace cleaner can take steps to prevent harmful gases and particulates from contaminating your home. They can also help prevent a fire due to a poorly maintained furnace and avoid a carbon monoxide leak that you cannot see or smell but can be deadly.
  • Your Furnace Can Last Longer: When they’re coated in dirt and grime, heating elements and electrical components wear out much faster, so your furnace can fail sooner. Preventative furnace maintenance, including cleaning, helps address minor issues to effectively extend your heating system’s lifespan. 
  • Cost Savings Over Time: An annual maintenance and cleaning service is a small expense compared to dealing with consistently higher heating bills, major repairs, and having to replace your furnace prematurely. You can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your heating system.
  • Less Noise from Your Furnace: As your furnace starts up and runs, you can hear its rumble when you’re nearby. The unit will become louder and vibrate more if it’s not cleaned properly. A furnace cleaner eliminates the buildup that causes the system to run more loudly. They can also tighten screws and secure loose panels, pipe brackets, ducts, and other components to reduce noise.
  • Remove Duct Obstructions: During a furnace cleaning, the technician should also check for and clear any duct obstructions. Air ducts and vents near your furnace can clog with dirt, soot, and even rodents. A common sign of obstructions is rooms that don’t heat as effectively as others. Proper furnace maintenance can avoid these and other issues.
  • Replace the Oil Filter: A furnace professional will replace the oil filter during maintenance (if you have an oil furnace). This should be done whenever cleaning the unit. Whether the oil level gets low or sludge and grime fill the tank, the filter can get clogged. Changing the filter allows more oil to reach the furnace; the technician can also remove sludge from the tank so your furnace provides optimal heating.

What Should I Know About Changing My Furnace Filter?

Don’t wait for a professional furnace cleaner to change the air filter. Your furnace has either a disposable or cleanable filter. The product manual should identify the type, recommended size, and location. Disposable filters are pleated or non-pleated and come in Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings of 1 to 16 (for most homes, a MERV 6-12 filter is sufficient).

  • Changing a Disposable Filter: To change a disposable filter, turn off the furnace’s electricity, open the front panel, and slide the old filter out. When installing the new filter, note the direction of the arrow, which indicates the airflow direction. The size of the filter on the filter frame and the door must match. Also, make sure the markings align when sliding the new filter in. Then close the panel, turn the power back on, and note when you replaced the filter (the entire process should take less than 15 minutes).
  • Cleaning a Washable Filter: If the furnace has a washable filter, follow the same steps to remove it. Once the filter is removed, run a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment over the media. This should remove all dust and debris, and light should once again pass through the filter. Spray a mix of mild detergent and water on the filter and then hose it off in the sink. Set the filter aside to dry before reinstalling it.

Schedule Furnace Maintenance with TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

Regular furnace tune-ups and cleanings help your heating unit run more efficiently and improve safety and reliability. We specialize in maintaining gas, oil, and electric furnaces. For professional furnace maintenance in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area or anywhere in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-5096 today. 

 

The Effects of Faulty AC Coils

Faulty AC coils can cause serious problems, so schedule AC repair as soon as you notice something is wrong. Evaporator and condenser coils transport refrigerant so an HVAC system can collect and dissipate heat. It won’t do so effectively if the coils are damaged. Fortunately, the effects are noticeable, so you should know when to call a local AC contractor.

How Do AC Coils Work?

The evaporator and condenser coils are connected by coolant lines, which bring refrigerant to and from the condenser. A fan in the condenser unit dissipates heat from the refrigerant in the lines. The compressor then pumps the coolant back to the evaporator, where coils absorb heat and a blower pushes cool air into ducts. The coolant returns to the condenser to dissipate heat once again.

Signs You Have Faulty AC Coils

The most common effects of faulty AC coils in your home include:

  • Refrigerant Leak: A leak can occur if an object falls against the coils. The coils can also become corroded due to exposure to acidic compounds in the air. If you see a refrigerant leak, call for help right away. It can do major damage to your AC and is a toxic chemical; exposure can lead to skin and respiratory problems.
  • Environmental Damage: Coolant can harm the environment if it leaks from a damaged AC coil. It can contribute to atmospheric warming and ozone layer depletion (especially older R-22 Freon). A hissing sound from the coils means refrigerant gas is escaping.
  • Reduced Cooling Efficiency: Refrigerant enables your AC system to generate cool air. A lack of cooling is one of the leading signs of faulty AC coils. Damaged coils cannot absorb heat effectively, so the system may not cool your home, or the cooling it provides will be inconsistent. Some rooms can be much cooler than others instead of the normal uniform distribution of air.
  • A Noisy AC: Most air conditioners operate nearly silently. You should be used to the sound of the fan and airflow. If the evaporator coil is broken, you may hear a hissing or banging noise. These sounds mean refrigerant is leaking or loose or misaligned components are hitting other parts of your AC system. Ignoring any unusual noises can lead to even more significant damage.
  • Frozen Coils: Ice can form on coils due to a refrigerant leak. Low refrigerant levels reduce the amount of heat transported through the lines, cooling them enough to cause condensation to freeze (poor airflow can also do so). The ice further contributes to the problem because it insulates the refrigerant, inhibiting heat transfer. Therefore, the air in your house is not cooled.
  • Higher Energy Bills: Worn or damaged coils force your air conditioner to work harder to maintain a cool temperature. The extra work increases energy consumption. As a result, your monthly energy bills may increase suddenly or gradually without a clear reason. And, if your AC system works harder for a long period, major components can wear out, requiring costly repairs.
  • The AC Short Cycles: The air conditioner may cycle on and off frequently if the evaporator coils can’t absorb enough heat. Short cycling wastes energy and can strain the system. The extra wear and tear can lead to expensive repairs or premature system failure. Call an AC contractor near you if the unit starts to run in shorter cycles.

How Do I Protect My AC Coils?

Check the AC coils often to reduce the risk of damage. Dust, hair, grime, and dirt can build up on them over time. The longer you wait, the harder the buildup is to remove. Use an AC coil cleaner or hose off outdoor coils to prevent damage, or call a contractor for help. If the coils freeze, have them check for a leak or airflow issue and, if necessary, correct it.

What’s the Safest Coil Cleaner to Use?

Use an AC coil cleaner that’s labeled for use with your type of system. The user manual or your AC installer may recommend certain products. You can also use a mix of water and mild dish detergent, and even add a little distilled white vinegar, for effective cleaning.

Should a Faulty AC Coil Be Repaired or Replaced?

Coils may be sealed or repaired if the damage is limited to a small area. However, a leak is often caused by eroded metal and corrosion. If part of the coil is corroded, other areas are likely affected. An HVAC contractor will generally recommend replacing it, which can be less expensive than a repair and recharge.

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

We provide high-quality AC repair services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a faulty AC coil or any other problem, our skilled professionals find the most cost-effective, permanent solution. They promptly evaluate the effects of any problem so it can be quickly diagnosed and repaired. Our team also provides high-quality AC installation and maintenance. To learn more or schedule air conditioning services from experienced AC contractors near you, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.

8 Things to Consider Before You Install a Furnace

A furnace install requires lots of considerations. Relying on guesswork can result in wasting money and having a heating system that doesn’t meet your needs. A furnace is an investment that can improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency for many years. Therefore, you need the help of an experienced heating contractor. But even before you hire furnace installers near you in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA, here are eight things to consider:

1. Repair vs. Replace Your Furnace

Repairing a furnace can save you money if the unit isn’t that old, hasn’t been serviced much, and the repair bill is less than half the cost of a new unit. If your furnace has reached the 15- to 20-year mark, consider replacing it. Are you looking for a higher-efficiency model and to save on your heating bills? Then, replacing your furnace can help you achieve your goals.

2. Energy Efficiency Ratings

Since efficiency ranks high in importance, you want to consider the energy-efficiency rating of any new furnace you buy. It is determined by a product’s annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. Today’s mid-efficiency units have an AFUE of 80% or higher, but a high-efficiency furnace can have an AFUE rating of as high as 98.5%. Generally, the higher a unit’s efficiency, the more it costs upfront, but the more you can save on long-term energy costs.

Also, you can save with tax credits and rebate programs for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades.

3. Size of Furnace You Need

A furnace’s size can refer to its physical dimensions (the unit must fit in the available space). However, it generally refers to the unit’s heating capacity. The required capacity depends on your home’s square footage, but a professional will include other variables in a heat load calculation. 

An undersized furnace won’t provide enough heat and will run longer to compensate. However,  an oversized unit may not run long enough. Either way, energy consumption will be higher and the furnace can wear out faster.

4. The Furnace’s Location

Find the ideal location before a furnace is installed. This is an area with enough airflow and that’s properly insulated. There must also be an electrical outlet nearby to power the furnace and access to a vent leading outside. Consult with a contractor regarding necessary updates, even if you are replacing an existing furnace.

A furnace must also be placed in an area where there are no flammable items. If there are cleaning products, paper, laundry, wood scraps, paint, sawdust, or gasoline in the furnace room, remove these, so your furnace doesn’t become a fire hazard.

5. Condition of Ductwork

Before installing a new furnace, have a contractor evaluate your ductwork. They’ll look at whether your air ducts are properly sealed. If not, energy loss will be a problem, no matter how high the furnace’s AFUE rating is. A professional can seal ducts to minimize energy loss. They can also clean dirt and debris if necessary, which could otherwise reduce a furnace’s performance and efficiency.

6. Insulation

Drafts and heat loss can cause dramatic temperature fluctuations between rooms. An increase in your electric bills is also likely. If your home has insulation issues, a heating contractor can evaluate and upgrade wall, ceiling, and attic insulation. They can also wrap the furnace in insulation to improve its performance and efficiency. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can also help as it can stop air from escaping.

7. Temperature Zoning

If uneven temperatures are common in your home, a zoning system may be the right upgrade. It can help control how heat is distributed. Such an upgrade should be considered during a furnace install to ensure the equipment is compatible. Zoning systems typically require multiple thermostats throughout your home. A technician can help find a programmable or smart model that serves as a centralized hub for the entire system.

Zoning also requires air duct upgrades, including installing dampers. These act as valves to control how much warm air reaches each room.

8. Your Family’s Safety

Installing a furnace has safety implications. Make sure children don’t have access to the area where the unit is being installed. Technicians will be moving heavy equipment and using power tools. Shut off the gas line and circuit breaker for your furnace. If you can, do so before the contractor arrives so this step isn’t accidentally forgotten.

Hire Experienced Furnace Installers Near You

High-quality installation is the first step to having a safe, reliable, long-lasting furnace. At TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing , our licensed heating professionals have the training, tools, and equipment to complete a furnace install that ensures reliable heating and high efficiency. They also provide heating maintenance and repairs. To learn more about our heating, air conditioning, insulation, and air quality services, call (415) 223-5615 today.

A furnace install requires many considerations. Learn what to know for optimal performance and efficiency. Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing today.

12 Reasons to Consider AC Duct Replacement

Even if you’re proactive with HVAC maintenance, ductwork may be the last thing you think about. That’s not how it should be; air ducts have a major impact on system performance and efficiency. While AC duct maintenance, such as duct cleaning, can improve these (and indoor air quality), there are many reasons to consider AC duct replacement. It’s not the cheapest home improvement project or the most fun, but it can resolve many issues.

The reasons you should consult with an HVAC contractor regarding duct replacement include:

1. Old Ductwork

Properly installed and cared-for air ducts should last 10 to 15 years. Over time, the seals, joints, and seams in your ductwork can deteriorate, reducing HVAC system performance and increasing energy usage. Some duct systems start to deteriorate sooner. The only way to address age-related issues is to invest in AC duct replacement

2. Indoor Air Quality Concerns

If there are gaps and holes in ducts, dust, allergens, mold, and other contaminants can fill the air you breathe. The effects can include increased allergies and asthma symptoms when you’re at home. Changing the air filter can provide relief; if it doesn’t, consider replacing ductwork to improve your indoor air quality.

3. High Energy Bills

If your energy bills are rising, and you haven’t used your HVAC system more (or have cut back to conserve and save), the reason may be in the air ducts. Leaky ducts let conditioned air escape. Or, ducts may be so dirty air cannot flow properly. Therefore, your AC will work harder to cool your home. A contractor can install new well-sealed ducts, so you save energy.

4. Poor Airflow

Reduced airflow can strain your HVAC system and prevent it from working effectively. This may be due to duct blockages or large air leaks. When air is not circulating in your home correctly or feels stale, it may be time to consider replacing ductwork.

5. Temperature Variations

Are some rooms too hot and others too cold? Leaks, gaps, and disconnections in ductwork can lead to temperature imbalances that never seem to go away. If ducts are in poor shape, they can prevent conditioned air from reaching parts of your home. By replacing air ducts, you can restore the temperature balance.

6. Noisy HVAC System

Air conditioning systems should perform quietly and air shouldn’t make noise as it travels through air ducts. Rattling, vibration noises, and other unusual sounds can mean your ductwork is clogged or damaged. Consult with a professional about repairing or replacing the system.

7. Damaged Ducts

In areas where your ductwork is accessible, look for signs of damage. Call a professional if you see dents, punctures, collapsed ducts, kinked lines, and other signs the system needs to be repaired or replaced. Holes in your ducts mean they’re not distributing air properly and are likely letting in warm air and pollutants.

8. Mold

Mold is a sign of widespread moisture problems and potential damage to your ductwork. Once mold starts growing, it can spread throughout the system and release spores into the air. These can trigger allergies and serious health issues. Professional duct cleaning is often not enough to address the problem.

9. Odors

Foul odors can be a sign of mold in the duct system. Also, holes in ducts can allow smells in from outside or even other parts of your home. If your living space has smoky, chemical, cooking, bathroom, and other smells, the ductwork should be the first place to look.

10. Home Renovation or Remodel

If you’re renovating or remodeling your home, it’s a good time to replace your air ducts. Changes to the floor plan and layout may require moving or reconfiguring them. Plus, including  AC duct replacement with your renovation avoids having to go through another disruptive project later.

11. Pests

Holes in air ducts are easy entryways for bugs and rodents. Pests can infest your home through ductwork and cause blockages in air ducts and HVAC units. They can also bring bacteria and disease-causing pathogens with them. The problem can often be solved with AC duct maintenance, but seriously damaged ductwork must be replaced.

12. Poor Design and Installation

Ductwork can be designed and installed in many ways. If it’s not configured and installed the way it should be for your home, your AC system won’t work efficiently. Replacing the duct system is the only way to eliminate hot and cold spots, efficiency problems, and indoor air quality issues related to poorly installed ducts.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Duct Maintenance or Replacement

Our experienced HVAC professionals know how to maintain and replace ductwork. Homeowners in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area and surrounding areas rely on us for high-quality duct cleaning, sealing, and repair. We can also determine the best time to consider AC duct replacement. To schedule a consultation, book service online or call (415) 223-5615 today.

When Should I Schedule Boiler Repair Near Me?

The Bay Area of California is a bustling hub of technology and innovation. However, some homeowners in the area may still have boilers to heat their homes. If you own a boiler, it’s important to understand when to schedule boiler repair near you. The experienced team at TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing specializes in providing timely, reliable boiler repairs to keep your home comfortable all winter.

boiler

What Does Boiler Repair Involve?

If your boiler is not working properly, here’s what to expect when you call TRIO for our local boiler repair services.

Troubleshooting and Diagnosis

Our professional boiler repair in the Bay Area begins with a visual inspection of your boiler, looking for signs of damage, corrosion, leaks, or other issues. The technician may open the boiler casing to look more carefully at internal components like the burner or heat exchanger. Once the problem is identified, they’ll make an official diagnosis and give you an estimate for the repair.

Repairs

An experienced TRIO technician addresses the problem, replaces faulty or worn-out parts, and cleans the boiler’s internal components. The burner, heat exchanger, and combustion chamber are common areas that typically require thorough cleaning for optimum efficiency. After repairs, a comprehensive test will be conducted on important safety devices like the pressure relief valve, safety cut-off switch, and gas pressure.

Final Testing

Once the initial repair and testing are complete, a TRIO technician will test the entire boiler. This is the best way to verify that everything is operating safely and efficiently. We’ll also review some tips about operating your boiler efficiently and answer any questions you may have about the repair.

Why Timely Boiler Repair Matters in the Bay Area

You might wonder when you should schedule boiler repair. Ideally, you should call TRIO for boiler repair when you notice an issue that impacts these areas:

  • Safety: If your boiler isn’t functioning properly, timely repair is important to ensure it’s running safely and avoid major safety issues like pressure buildup or a potentially dangerous gas leak.
  • Efficiency: The sooner you get your boiler repaired, the more efficiently it will run and save energy since repairs address problems that might cause your boiler to waste excess energy and fuel.
  • Comfort: If your boiler is not operational, your home is likely cold and uncomfortable, but timely repairs ensure that your home and family remain warm inside when the outdoor temperatures dive.
  • Savings: The sooner you address a boiler issue, the less costly the repairs should be, saving you money on more complex repairs or system breakdowns.

boilers

Signs You May Need Boiler Repair

You might not know the signs that you need boiler repair. Look for these signs that your boiler requires professional attention:

Strange Noises

Odd noises like banging could indicate that the boiler’s circulating pump is malfunctioning, causing it to shake inside the casing. Another common cause for strange noises is buildup on the bottom of the tank, which causes it to overheat and run less efficiently. Whistling noises could be due to limescale buildup, low water pressure, air trapped in the system, water flow issues, or a defective part. No matter what, if you notice strange noises from the boiler, contact TRIO for repairs right away.

Leaks or Water Pooling Around the Unit

Boilers are designed as a closed-loop system, meaning water should never leak from the unit. If you notice a leak or water pooling around your boiler tank, it’s a sign you need professional repair. Water leaks may be due to a faulty valve or seal, high pressure, loose connections, corrosion, or a damaged heat exchanger. The trio team is available to help, so call us right away for emergency boiler repair if you notice a leak.

Uneven Heating or Cold Zones in Your Home

If your home’s heating system is not heating evenly, you’ll notice cold “zones” that compromise your comfort. Uneven heating from a boiler may be due to blocked pipes, circulation pump issues, or problems with the thermostat. Occasionally, uneven heating is caused by an incorrectly sized boiler that’s not appropriately sized for your home.

Pilot Light Issues

The pilot light is an important part of your gas boiler. If it suddenly won’t light or if you notice it produces an orange or yellow flame, you have a pilot light issue. A dirty or faulty thermocouple, issues with the gas regulator, or a blocked opening near the pilot light flame might cause this issue. If you suspect a problem with your pilot light, turn off your boiler immediately and call us for help.

Spikes in Energy Bills

A sudden spike in your winter energy bill could mean an underlying issue with your boiler. Dirty filters or clogged components, leaky air ducts, or unoptimized boiler settings can all increase your boiler's energy consumption. Other causes might be limestone buildup in an electric boiler or outdated equipment reaching the end of its lifespan.

Is It Better to Repair or Replace an Old Boiler?

So, how often should you service your boiler, and is it better to repair or replace an old boiler? Have your boiler serviced by TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing experts at least once a year to keep it operating reliably and efficiently. If something goes wrong, we’ll come to your home and make repairs. As for the typical boiler repair costs, you’ll pay less for minor issues and more for complex repairs requiring the replacement of major components.

Here are some examples of times when it’s better to upgrade and replace your boiler with a new one rather than repair it:

  • If your boiler is 10 to 15 years old or older, a replacement is the better choice to maintain maximum efficiency.
  • Once the cost of repairing the boiler becomes higher than the cost of a new one, an upgrade is a much better choice.
  • A replacement could be best if you’ve had several repairs, but your boiler still isn’t heating your home evenly or running efficiently.
  • Older boilers pose safety hazards, such as gas leaks or electrical issues, so consider upgrading old units to ensure the safety of your home heating system.
  • Once your current boiler warranty expires, a replacement could be a better choice to protect your investment.

TRIO Teslas

Contact TRIO Today

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing are your trusted local experts for boiler repairs in the Bay Area. Our professional services help to ensure that your boiler operates safely and efficiently. If you need assistance with your boiler and would like to schedule service or repair, contact us online or call us at (415) 233-9832 today!