Banging, Whining, Grinding: Three Boiler Noises Homeowners Shouldn't Ignore

"We've been working with boilers all over Brooklyn for decades and you'd be surprised at what kind of noises can come out of them," said Michael Petri, owner of Petri Plumbing & Heating. "Some are harmless, but if your boiler unit is making banging, grinding, or whining noises, it could signal aging in the unit, inefficiencies in its operation, or pending costly repairs if left alone."

According to Petri, these three noises could mean the following for a boiler:

1. Banging – A banging or clunking sound emanating from the boiler can be indicative of one of many issues, and resolution should be sought immediately. One issue that can cause this sort of noise is the occurrence of "kettling." Kettling is the overabundance of minerals falling out of solution and adhering to the heat exchanger. As minerals like limestone build up on the exchanger's surfaces, steam can be created due the reduced water flow and resulting pockets of localized boiling. Another issue that banging can indicate is the delay of ignition when the boiler begins a heating cycle. Excess fuel could possibly be igniting in the unit, and this can lead to highly dangerous situations if left alone.
2. Whining – When a higher-pitched, whining noise is heard, it could mean that a small hole in the boiler has developed and the unit is experiencing a "tea kettle" effect. If the unit is an oil boiler, whining can mean that a fuel line may be restricted. This sound may also be related to a more mechanical breakdown, such as failing bearings in the fan motor. 
3. Grinding – If the boiler is making a grinding sound, there is a good chance that the ball bearings found in the motor are not properly lubricated. Dry ball bearings will begin to succumb to friction and grind as they wear. This is an immediate sign to place a service call. Only a professionally trained technician should be trusted to disassemble and repair or replace parts in the boiler motor.

For Brooklyn area residents that are noticing strange or alarming sounds coming from their boiler, Petri recommends calling their preferred HVAC technician.

"We want our Brooklyn neighbors to not only have a warm home, but to be safe as well," Petri said. "I've heard and seen enough of these issues result in dead boilers or potentially dangerous situations when left lingering—and it never fails I always have a few customers that regret not calling a professional sooner when they realize the damage that's been caused."

Petri Plumbing & Heating, Inc. has an A+ rating from the BBB and has been providing fast, reliable and quality service to the Brooklyn area since 1906.

About Petri Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Petri Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is a family owned and operated business serving Brooklyn and the New York City area. Founded in 1906, the company offers a 100 percent guarantee on all services, upfront pricing, and friendly and knowledgeable Service Experts for all kinds of home and business plumbing and heating needs. Services offered include water and gas pipe leak repair and installation, fixture installations, inspections, boiler repair, water heater installation, complete bathroom, kitchen, laundry & utility room remodeling and more. Petri is also licensed and certified by Green Plumbers USA, the first in New York City to receive this designation. For more information, please visit www.petriplumbing.com or call 718-748-1254.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
865-977-1973
[email protected]

SOURCE Petri Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.petriplumbing.com