U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Federal Energy Management Program – Operations and Maintenance
Boiler Maintenance
A boiler efficiency improvement program must include two aspects: (1) action to bring the boiler to peak efficiency, and (2) action to maintain the efficiency at the maximum level. Good maintenance and efficiency start with having a working knowledge of the components associated with the boiler and keeping comprehensive records, and end with details such as cleaning heat transfer surfaces and adjusting the air-to-fuel ratio.
General Requirements for a Safe and Efficient Boiler Room
- Keep the boiler room clean and clear of all unnecessary items. The boiler room should not be used as a storage area. The burner requires proper air circulation in order to prevent incomplete fuel combustion. Use boiler operating log sheets, keep maintenance records, and monitor the production of carbon monoxide.
- Ensure that all personnel who operate or maintain the boiler room are properly trained on all equipment, controls, safety devices, and up-to-date operating procedures.
- Before start-up, ensure that the boiler room is free of all potentially dangerous situations, like flammable materials, or mechanical or physical damage to the boiler or related equipment. Clear intakes and exhaust vents; check for deterioration and possible leaks.
- Ensure that a thorough inspection is done by a properly qualified inspector.
- After any extensive repair or new installation of equipment, make sure a qualified boiler inspector re-inspects the entire system.
- Monitor all new equipment closely until safety and efficiency are demonstrated.
- Use boiler operating log sheets, maintenance records, and manufacturer's recommendations to establish a preventive maintenance schedule based on operating conditions, past maintenance, repair, and replacement that were performed on the equipment.
- Establish a checklist for proper startup and shutdown of boilers and all related equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations.
- Observe equipment extensively before allowing an automating operation system to be used with minimal supervision.
- Establish a periodic preventive maintenance and safety program that follows manufacturer's recommendation
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