It feels like winter is already here and if you haven’t yet started up your commercial boiler, you probably will soon. Boilers are great for keeping your space warm for the season, but they need regular boiler maintenance in order to operate properly. If you haven’t yet scheduled a check-up for your system, contact the professionals at Oliver. If your boiler is already good to go, here are some things to keep in mind during startup:
The Process
Every commercial boiler comes with an owner’s manual. This manual should list the startup process that you need to follow in order to start up your boiler successfully. Even if you’ve completed the startup process before, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Boiler Maintenance History
Before you start up your boiler, find the maintenance log that goes with it. This should list any previous boiler maintenance issues and when they were resolved. If there’s an issue that hasn’t been resolved yet, hold off on starting it up and call our commercial experts.
Actions to Take
Boilers that aren’t properly maintained hold the risk of malfunctioning, which could lead to a fire or explosion. Before you start up your boiler, know what to do in case of a fire. Review the building’s fire exits and strategy as well as the location of the cut-off switch. Also know where the nearest first-aid kit is and whom to call for assistance if needed.
Checks/Inspections
There are many parts to a boiler and they should all be checked for quality before you start up your system. At Oliver, our boiler maintenance professionals can do this for you. However, if you’d rather take on the task yourself, here’s what recommend inspecting:
- Wiring
- Wires should be connected properly and free from damage
- Air openings
- All combustion and ventilation openings should be clear and unobstructed
- Water level
- The water level should be correct for the startup process
- Manual fuel valves
- All manual fuel valves should be open
- Fuel accumulation
- Fuel should not be present in the furnace or the flue passes
- Stack dampers
- All stack dampers should be open
- Surroundings
- Nothing unusual should be near, on, or in the boiler
The Experts at Oliver
To make your startup process even easier, call our commercial boiler experts. We can make sure your system meets all of the necessary requirements. If it doesn’t, we can adjust or repair its components and make sure it’s safe to use for the season.
