Heating Issues
Hi all, I have a question about my heating system. In the past couple of weeks or so, I’ve noticed that my gas heat randomly turns on and off despite my thermostat settings. For example, last night it went on when my apartment was approaching 70 degrees and the thermostat was set at 50 or…
Hi all,
I have a question about my heating system. In the past couple of weeks or so, I’ve noticed that my gas heat randomly turns on and off despite my thermostat settings.
For example, last night it went on when my apartment was approaching 70 degrees and the thermostat was set at 50 or below. It’s hard to hear it turn on, but I heard some bubbling and the radiators were warm to the touch and emitting heat.
What could be causing this? I have a very new boiler but an old thermostat. Do I need a new thermostat, or could it be a problem with the boiler and/or its connections to the radiators?
Also, any recommendations for a type of thermostat (and a good contractor to install it) if I were to get a new one?
Thanks for any help!!
-C
Mpcmpc is talking specifically about electronic zone valves in a hot water heating system. Even more specifically, I would think; Honeywell electronic zone valves. Not everyone has them.
You can also try blowing out the current thermostat w/ canned air. If it’s a mercury switch they sometimes get dust-laden & imbalanced.
Thanks! That’s very helpful. Where is the manual valve that I can test? I’ll also search Google and see if I can figure it out, I’m sure it’s different for every boiler.
Sorry for the double post!
It’s important to know that the boiler flames will kick in if the water gets cold.
That’s different from opening of the valve which releases the hot water to the floor.
Each valve has a manual switch to force it open. If that moves easily then the thermostat is “on”, regardless of the flames under the boiler.
Go to google for more info.
If your tests prove that it is indeed broken. Most likely you need a new thermostat. They are relatively easy to replace. Call Honeywell support to recommend a model. It comes with install instructions.
I’d recommend a new one just so that you can program your heat to go off at night. They have “511” models to program start times for Mon-Fri, Sat, and Sun for $70.