Boilers are high-quality appliances designed to maintain your warmth and comfort throughout winter. An occasional breakdown may require service or boiler repairs. In rare instances, however, a problem with the unit could pose a threat to your home or family. Here are some signs all homeowners should know.

When Is a Boiler Considered Dangerous?

1. Yellow Flame Burns

In a healthy burner, the pilot burns a continuous shade of blue. This means the boiler is burning methane, the clean fuel used to warm your home. If it appears yellow, however, it’s imperative to contact a boiler repair technician right away. The color is essentially a warning that the appliance is burning something else along with the methane, such as rust, oil, or dust. Any of these can be hazardous. It’s smart to check the light at least once a month to be safe.

2. Visible Black Stains

Spotting black stains in the vicinity of the burner or directly on it is another critical reason to contact a boiler service professional. These scorch marks alert your technician that the boiler has an exhaust gas leak and may also be accompanied by rusty spots. Even the smallest amount of gas could contain enough carbon monoxide to pose a threat, which is why it’s important to have someone assess the problem as soon as you notice it.

3. Strong Gaseous Odor

A functional boiler won’t ever produce an odor. If you do notice one, take that as an indication that you need to contact a boiler repair professional right away. The most alarming scent to be aware of is something similar to rotten eggs or sulfur. This is because natural gas companies add this sulfuric additive to warn you of a possible gas leak.

Offering over 30 years of industry experience, the experts at Gary’s Repair & Burner Service in Ester, AK, can assess any issues concerning your boiler or furnace. Their goal is to ensure that you remain warm and comfortable year round, which is why they offer boiler repairs, furnace cleaning, and complete replacements on a wide range of brands and models. Visit the website to learn more about their boiler services, or call (907) 474-0736.