As temperatures start to fall in Central New Jersey, you count on your boiler to keep your home toasty and warm through the snowy winter months. But if you turn on your system for the first frost of the season only to find it struggling to start up, it can be alarming.
Before you assume the worst, it’s helpful to understand the most common reasons your boiler isn’t turning on. From failing components to falling pressure, we’ll walk you through the most common problems, troubleshooting tips, and signs when it’s time to call in the pros.
Common Reasons Your Boiler Isn’t Turning On
When your boiler struggles to start, it’s often due to one of several common issues affecting its power, ignition, or water pressure. Below, we’ll explore the top culprits to help you figure out your next steps and decide whether it’s time to contact the heating pros at Sam’s Air Control for help.
Gas supply or ignition problems
Our boiler relies on a steady supply of gas and a functioning ignition system to heat your Edison home. If a closed gas valve, supply disruption, or faulty ignition system prevents enough gas from reaching your system, your boiler won’t ignite.
Gas issues can pose a serious safety risk, so it’s essential to call a pro if you suspect a supply problem. If you notice the boiler clicking without firing up, an unlit pilot light, or error codes displayed on the panel, call an experienced technician to inspect your unit.
The thermostat is faulty
Your thermostat signals your boiler to turn on and off as the temperature in your home fluctuates. If the thermostat is dead, the wiring is loose, or it’s set to the wrong temperature, it may fail to trigger the boiler to turn on.
Check your thermostat to ensure it’s set to the proper temperature and has fresh batteries. If your heating system still won’t turn on, there may be a bigger issue that requires a complete replacement.
Water pressure is too low
Boilers require a minimum water pressure to operate safely and effectively heat your home. If the pressure falls too low, the safety system will stop it from turning on to prevent damage and potential hazards. A few common issues can cause pressure to drop, including leaks, recent bleeding, and a faulty pressure relief valve.
Check your boiler’s pressure gauge and make sure it’s within the recommended range. If it’s lower than usual, check for visible cracks or leaks in the pipes, radiators, or valves that could be causing it to drop. If it continues to fall, contact a pro to assess and repressurize your system.
The condensate pipe is frozen
Condensing boilers release a small amount of water through a component called the condensate pipe. Freezing temperatures and a lack of insulation can cause this pipe to freeze, potentially leading to a boiler failure even when all other components are functioning correctly.
Inspect the condensate pipe for signs of pooling water or visible ice. Thawing the pipe carefully with warm water or a blow dryer can resolve the issue, but you may require professional assistance if the problem persists.
The flue is blocked
Your boiler flue safely releases harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, outside your home, keeping your family safe. If the flue becomes blocked by debris, animal nests, or damage, a safety feature will prevent your boiler from turning on to prevent dangerous gas leaks.
If your boiler starts turning off unexpectedly, if you notice strange smells near the unit, or if you see error codes related to the flue, contact a licensed boiler expert as soon as possible.
What To Do If the Boiler Isn’t Turning On with the Thermostat
See the snow falling outside your central NJ home, but your boiler is refusing to start? A faulty thermostat is one of the most common culprits.
Your thermostat is the brain behind your boiler, triggering it to turn on whenever the temperature inside your home falls below the desired setting. If your thermostat stops working, your heating system won’t receive the signal to turn on, and you may find yourself shivering through the winter chill.
Thankfully, there are a few easy ways to troubleshoot thermostat problems. Try out the following tips to get your boiler to turn on:
- Replace your thermostat batteries
- Increase the temperature by a few degrees above the current room temperature
- Make sure it’s on the “heat” setting
- Clean the thermostat to keep dust from interfering with the sensors
Quick Fixes To Check Before Calling a Boiler Technician in Edison, NJ
If your boiler won’t turn on, don’t panic. There are a few quick fixes that can get your boiler back up and running without needing professional help. Walk through the following steps to try to resolve common issues before calling a technician:
- Check your fuse box for a tripped circuit breaker and reset it if necessary.
- Make sure your boiler is plugged in and turned on.
- Check that the valve is open and gas is flowing to the boiler.
- Look for error codes or warning lights that indicate the potential problem.
- Inspect the pressure gauge and repressurize the system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Call Sam’s Air for Boiler Repair in Middlesex County
If you try your best to troubleshoot the problem but your boiler still won’t turn on, call the experts at Sam’s Air Control for assistance. Our team of licensed heating technicians has the tools and expertise to quickly diagnose and repair the issue, getting your boiler back up and running again. Whether it’s a frozen condensate pipe, a faulty thermostat, or a gas supply issue, you can trust that we’ll restore cozy warmth to your New Jersey home.
Call us or book online to schedule your boiler repair today! We proudly serve homes throughout central NJ, including the following areas:
- Metuchen
- Piscataway
- Woodbridge
- Edison
- And more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my boiler click without igniting?
If you hear your boiler making a clicking sound without igniting, it usually means the ignition system is failing to start. Several common issues could be the source, including gas supply problems, faulty components, or debris inside the system. Contact our experts for a quick diagnosis, and we’ll recommend the best solution.
How do I reset my boiler?
Resetting your boiler can help fix minor issues and get it back up and running. To safely restart your system, turn off the power, wait five to ten minutes, and press the reset button. If your unit still won’t ignite after resetting, contact our pros for a professional inspection and repair.
How can I tell if my boiler is losing pressure?
Low gauge readings, uneven temperatures, unexpected shut-offs, and visible leaks are some of the most common signs that the water pressure inside your boiler is dropping. If you notice any of these warning signs, contact our team as soon as possible.
Why is my boiler making strange noises?
Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds coming from your boiler are often a sign of air in the system, limescale issues, or problems with the pump. While some noises may be harmless, persistent or loud sounds are often a sign that your unit requires professional attention.
