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How to check if the boiler flue is blocked

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As a boiler consumes fuels like gas and oil, it produces waste gases that need extraction through a pipe or duct called a flue. It is a crucial component of the boiler. The heating system safely exhausts carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. These are combustion byproducts that a system produces as it heats the water. The flue discharges these to the outside atmosphere. Ultimately, a blocked boiler flue is not a good thing, so let’s find out how to check if the boiler flue is blocked. 

The flue is an essential part of boiler maintenance. When you use gas to heat a home, the flue pipe is a part of the system that heats the interior area and the water. The flue pipe ventilates activities by carefully venting exhaust and combustion byproducts outside the house. Every homeowner should know how to check if the boiler flue is blocked. Hence, you must keep yourself informed and updated about these kinds of household elements. Refer to more about our professional boiler repair services in London.

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How do you check if the boiler flue is blocked?

For proper ventilation, you will require the use of a flue pipe. It prevents exposure to dangerous byproducts by allowing them to leave the house. The flue pipe functions to stop unintentional fires from starting. To answer your query, “how to check if the boiler flue is blocked?” here are a few points that will assist you:

  • Start by going to the room where your boiler is.
  • Using sufficient lighting or a flashlight, visually examine the pipe.
  • Note any water or rust marks on the pipe.
  • Search for soot or other material on the floor near the pipe.
  • If you notice any indications of a blockage, contact an expert to investigate the problem.

On the contrary, find out more about boiler flues. Our blog titled ‘what should flue gas analyser readings be?‘ will prove informational.

How do you know if your flue is blocked?

How to check if the boiler flue is blocked is relatively easy. You should also learn the signs of a blocked flue. There are a few signs of a blocked flue. Being alert to these signs can help you avoid costly losses and reduce the fire risk starting in your house. Below are the few signs of a blocked flue:

  • Oxidization – Where your flue links to the heating system, the development of white spots could signify a blockage, and oxidation symptoms point to a clogged flue that has trapped hot gases.
  • Boiler Is Making Noises – A boiler can become noisier than usual. It may produce heavy sounds, which could occur due to some boiler components having to work harder. An inadequate system puts strain on other components.
  • Stains Around The Pipe – No soot, stains, or other debris should be on or near a functioning flue.
  • Weird Smell – You may notice that there is a weird smell surrounding the boiler. This can be because of the trapped gas.

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When the gas alarm goes off or water leaks occur

Install a carbon monoxide alarm. The buildup of combustion gases could cause the alarm in the same room as the boiler, to go off. You can also observe water near or underneath the boiler’s flue outlet. Nothing compares to giving your boiler flue a very detailed inspection. When your heating system is off, pay special attention to the flue. See if you can identify any accumulations of leaves, twigs, or other debris that might obstruct the flow of gases. You must check the flue after a storm or at a time of windy weather.

You must check your boiler’s flue. Of course, a horizontal flue is simpler to inspect than a vertical one. Never overlook any of these indicators. A blocked flue pipe can cause dangerous gases to accumulate in the boiler. If these gases leak, they can enter the house and cause respiratory problems. Alternatively, if you have ever been asked, can a boiler flue go through the roof?, then our blog on that will give you an answer.

What happens if the flue is blocked?

A boiler flue is an essential component of a heating system. Your boiler produces combustion gases. With the help of the flue, the extraction of gases happens. These gases are fatal for human beings. Many deaths occur because of these gases. These gases can only return to your home if your boiler’s flue becomes blocked. It is nearly impossible to detect carbon monoxide. It is an odourless and colourless gas. Install a carbon monoxide alarm, at the very least. If it detects gas, it will sound like a smoke alarm. If the alarm sounds, you will know there is a possible carbon monoxide problem.

A faulty boiler may be the source of the gas entering your home, or the primary issue may be your flue. If you believe you have a blocked flue pipe, you must turn off the boiler entirely. Don’t just shut off the heating. Make sure to turn off the gas. If you’re unsure how to do this, just shut off the boiler and call a Gas Safe-registered engineer who can come out and check the leak for you. Maintaining your family’s health requires paying close attention to how well your flue is functioning. Call a qualified professional to have a look right away if you think you have a blocked flue pipe.

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