Steam boiler Maintenance Checklist

A Scotch-marine steam boiler, common in residential buildings, typically lasts 25 to 30 years with proper maintenance.

Following a regular maintenance schedule for your building's boiler plant will go a long way toward minimizing breakdowns and service interruptions. Here are some key items that should be a part of any building's operational plans.

Annual Maintenance

These maintenance items should be done once a year by a heating contractor between heating seasons (June to September):

• Inspect and clean fireside surfaces.
• Inspect all burner refractory material.
• Inspect all manhole gaskets for leaks.
• Inspect and test all system valves.
• Inspect and test all safety valves.
• Clean and rebuild low water cut-off.
• Recalibrate all operating controls.
• Overhaul feed water pumps.
• Clean condensate receiver.
• Inspect electrical terminals.
• Switch boiler automation to summer mode.
• Check fuel oil levels.
• Clean and inspect chimneys.
• Clean and tune boiler and components.

Periodic Maintenance