Why Is My Boiler Making Strange Sounds?

Your home’s boiler requires maintenance for efficient and safe operation throughout the winter. Even when you do follow a consistent maintenance plan, some problems can still occur. Often, the first sign of a boiler problem is an unusual sound. Take a look at why your boiler may be making these common sounds.

Whistling or Kettling

The whistling sound you might hear coming from your boiler is also referred to as kettling because it resembles the sound of a teapot’s whistle. 

While boiler winter maintenance tips in Indianapolis, IN, can help you prevent other problems, this condition may be beyond your control. It usually results from the sediment buildup that hard water causes. 

The heavier mineral content in hard water can lead to corrosion on the inner walls of the pipes in your boiler. As the buildup slows the flow of water, the water heats faster and begins to boil. The result is the whistling noise you hear. Ask your HVAC technician to clean the system and restore proper water flow.

Gurgling Sounds

A boiler that produces gurgling sounds isn’t necessarily a serious issue, but it’s important to address the problem before it worsens. The gurgling noises result when air gets into the system and mixes with the water. A simple fix is to pour warm water over the condensation pipe. As the pipe thaws, the issue should resolve itself.

If you still hear gurgling sounds, you may need a technician to bleed the system. This service involves flushing out the water that contains pockets of air.

Vibrating or Humming

Vibrating pipes or humming sounds are more common with a system that uses a heat pump. If the installer sets the heat pump too high, heated water can get pushed too fast through the pipes. This leads to the vibration noises the system is producing. 

Alternatively, a system that doesn’t use a heat pump can still produce a humming sound. Over time, sludge will build up within the pipes, slowing water flow and causing the system to overheat. That is why one of the best boiler winter maintenance tips in Indianapolis, IN, for preventing this problem is to schedule an annual tune-up.

Learn More Boiler Winter Maintenance Tips in Indianapolis, IN

For more helpful boiler tips, turn to the pros at Vital Heating & Air. Our licensed team also provides HVAC maintenance services, repairs, and new equipment installation, all with a 100% Happiness Guarantee. We’re qualified and experienced in working on any type of system. 

If you need heating maintenance or repairs in Indianapolis, contact us to schedule service today.