Top 5 Boiler Parts That Fail in Winter

Winter takes its toll on boilers. As temperatures plummet, boilers work overtime to keep spaces warm, leading to wear and tear on critical components. Here’s a breakdown of the top five boiler parts that often fail during winter, why they’re prone to issues, and what signs to look out for.

1. Pumps

The pump is the heart of any heating system and is responsible for circulating hot water throughout the system. Winter’s increased heating demands put extra strain on this vital component.

• Why They Fail: The constant operation during colder months can lead to overheating, mechanical wear, or blockages.

• Signs of Failure: Noisy grinding or humming sounds, uneven heating, or lack of hot water, may all be pump failure signs.

• What to Do: Regularly check for leaks and ensure the system pump is properly lubricated. If it has oil ports, use a few drops of non-detergent motor oil (like 10W-30) as recommended by the manufacturer. If a replacement is needed, Oswald Supply stocks pumps from brands such as Grundfos, McDonell Miller, and  Peerless to get the system operating. 

2. Pressure Relief Valves

Pressure relief valves are safety components that protect the boiler from excess pressure buildup. However, winter temperature fluctuations can cause these valves to activate more frequently, leading to potential failure.

• Why They Fail: The rapid changes in pressure due to the system’s heating cycles may weaken or damage the valve over time.

• Signs of Failure: Look out for leaking water around the valve or instances where the valve activates unnecessarily.

• What to Do: Inspect the valve for visible damage or leaks. Replacement valves are available at Oswald Supply, ensuring systems operate safely throughout the season.

3. Thermostats

Thermostats are the control centers of any boiler system, dictating how and when the system heats up a space. Thermostats experience heavier load demand during extreme winter conditions.

• Why They Fail: Frigid temperatures can disrupt the thermostat’s functionality, leading to inaccurate readings or malfunctions.

• Signs of Failure: Inconsistent room temperatures, difficulty adjusting the settings, or no response when attempting to change the temperature could point to a faulty thermostat.

• What to Do: If recalibrating the thermostat doesn’t resolve the issue, replacing it with a reliable model can prevent future headaches. Oswald Supply carries controls to suit various boiler systems.

4. Gaskets and Seals

Gaskets and seals play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of heating systems by preventing leaks. Unfortunately, winter’s cold temperatures can cause these materials to contract and fail.

• Why They Fail: The constant expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations weaken gaskets and seals over time.

• Signs of Failure: Water leaks around the boiler, unusual noises, or a drop in system pressure are clear indicators of gasket or seal failure.

• What to Do: Regular maintenance can extend the life of these parts, but replacements are sometimes necessary. Oswald Supply offers a comprehensive inventory of in-stock gaskets and seals to match older and newer systems. Keep replacement gaskets on hand for when issues arise. 

5. Heat Exchangers

The heat exchanger is essential for transferring heat from the boiler to the water. Without proper maintenance, the exchanger can fail due to mineral buildup or cracking, especially during peak winter usage.

• Why They Fail: Mineral deposits can accumulate if water is not treated, reducing the exchanger’s efficiency. Over time, this can lead to overheating and cracking of the heat exchanger.

• Signs of Failure: Reduced heating output, visible leaks, or unusual banging noises from the boiler often signal heat exchanger issues.

• What to Do: Flushing the system annually prevents mineral buildup, but a cracked heat exchanger will require immediate replacement. Oswald Supply stocks heat exchanger parts, ready to ship.

Stay Warm with Oswald Supply

Winter boiler failures are inconvenient, but knowing what to watch for can help troubleshoot issues before they become bigger problems. At Oswald Supply, we specialize in providing hard-to-find and discontinued parts, ensuring that even older systems can stay operational. Contact Oswald Supply today to find the parts and solutions needed to keep boilers running smoothly all season long!