Heating and Cooling > News > Common Problems with Hydronic Heating Systems
hydronic heating boiler hydronic heating hydronic heating installation

Common Problems with Hydronic Heating Systems

Common Problems with Hydronic Heating Systems

Scheduling routine maintenance is an excellent way to stay proactive and extend the lifespan of your hydronic heating system. However, you may encounter various issues over time and it’s a good idea to contact a professional hydronic heater service provider in your area when you do so. Here are a few of the most common problems with a hydronic heater and the easiest ways to fix these issues.

hydronic heating boiler hydronic heating hydronic heating installation

Air in the Line

A radiator can become cold at the top, which indicates either air or hydrogen in the system. Hydrogen gas builds up as a by-product of electrolytic corrosion. Over time, if left untreated, this can lead to radiators with cold spots in the bottom and central areas, due to a build-up of sludge restricting flow and reducing heat transfer.

Leaks

Leaks can occur due to a wide range of reasons, whether you are dealing with corrosion or a faulty pipe. It is not always easy to detect leaks in a hydronic heating system by yourself. This is what makes regular servicing so important so these issues can be identified early and quickly fixed before it causes damage to your home.

Sludge Build Up

When your hydronic heating system isn’t regularly serviced or the water has the incorrect pH level, sludge can form inside the panel and cause the system to operate less than optimally, meaning more time to heat up the home and increased running costs. In this situation, it is recommended your hydronic heating system gets a power flushing.

This involves connecting your hydronic heating system to a machine with a pump filled with a designer solution to help break down sludge and clean the inside of your system. Once complete, your hydronic heating system will be free from unwanted sludge, filled with treated water, and running optimally as if it were brand new. It is also recommended to power flush your hydronic heating system if you’re getting a new boiler for an existing system.

Low Water Level

Another common issue with a hydronic heating system is dealing with a low water level in your boiler. Maintaining the same water level in your boiler is essential in keeping your system working effectively. The water level should always remain at half full, as the system is designed to refill automatically using the pressure relief valve.

Thermostat Failure

Check your thermostat by turning the heat up or down a few degrees to see if it turns on. If nothing happens, you may be dealing with thermostat failure. You can open the thermostat casing to verify if all the wiring is clean and is properly attached. If not, it will require fixing.

Wrong Tank Pressure

Incorrect pressures can occur over time if a hydronic heating system isn’t serviced properly. This can cause damage to your boiler and may result in leaks from the boiler. This is another issue that can be prevented through regular servicing from experienced professionals.

Contact Efficient Pure Plumbing for Hydronic Heating Servicing

When you’re looking to get your hydronic heating system serviced, the team at Efficient Pure Plumbing is more than happy to help. We have more than 20 years of experience installing, servicing and repairing a vast range of heating and cooling systems. Give us a call on 03 9792 3261 today or get in touch online.