Central Boiler : maintenance Guide

(See video below)
As the leaves turn red outside, it’s time to prepare your wood-fired heating system for the cold season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your system operates efficiently and safely.

These tips apply to almost all glycol or water central boilers, and more specifically to our LS150, LS450, and LS950, in single or dual wood-electricity energy.


Step 1: Inspect the Chimney
First and foremost, check your chimney for any residual soot or debris. It’s essential to perform a chimney sweep to clear any blockages. Be sure to clean all connected pipes leading from the chimney to your heating unit.
If you can access the base of the chimney, use a small mirror to inspect the interior for obstructions. If you disassemble any pipes, remember to replace the screws, as these are crucial for maintaining structural integrity and safety in case of overheating.

Step 2: Clean the Heat Exchanger
Next, focus on the heat exchanger located above the heating unit. It may be concealed by a fireplace cover but is accessible from the back. Scrape any soot buildup to ensure optimal heat transfer. Once the soot falls inside, push it into the combustion chamber where it will be re-burned.
If possible, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining soot. Keep in mind that just 1/8 inch of soot can insulate like an inch of wool, decreasing your unit’s efficiency. Ideally, check and maintain these areas at least once a month, adjusting frequency based on the quality of wood you’re using.

Step 3: Inspect the Air Pipes
Look for small air pipes on the ceiling of your unit. After a year of heating, these pipes can accumulate dust. Use a small brush to clean them, promoting better airflow and improving gas combustion performance.

Step 4: Check the Interior Components
Inspect the interior stones for any defects or large chips. If you notice any broken pipes or missing components, replace them promptly to maintain efficiency.

Step 5: Manage Ash Accumulation
Avoid allowing ash to accumulate in the ash pan for extended periods. Excess ash can touch the grate and deform it, leading to potential breakage. To manage this, only activate the ash from the bottom of your reservoir in the morning. This allows you to go several days or even a week without major buildup. When necessary, empty the ash into a metal container for safe disposal.

Step 6: Start-Up Recommendations
When firing up your hot water system for the first time in the season, especially if using auxiliary heating sources like electricity, propane, or oil, I recommend starting with those fuels. They are easier to control if a malfunction occurs.
Ensure that, while in wood combustion mode, your small vent indicates a heating demand by being open about an inch. When you add wood, the temperature will rise and close the vent, confirming that it is operational.

Step 7: Initial Operation
Begin with a half load of wood to verify that everything operates as it did last year. It’s also essential to conduct a mechanical inspection of the plumbing to ensure proper circulation and functionality.

Stay Connected
Remember, with over 4,000 satisfied customers, we at LS Bilodeau are always easy to reach for any questions you may have. We manufacture heating equipment designed for our winters, ensuring you stay warm all season long.