Gas & heat
If your boiler has no heat, check that the thermostat is calling for heat, the power switch is on, and the pressure gauge on a hot-water boiler reads in the normal range (often around 12 to 15 psi when cold). If those are fine and it still won't fire, call for repair. Very old or repeatedly failing boilers are often worth replacing with a high-efficiency model.
Hot-water and steam systems
Many Baltimore rowhomes and older houses in Roland Park, Pikesville and Towson still heat with radiators fed by a boiler. Hot-water (hydronic) systems pump heated water through radiators or baseboards; steam systems send steam up to radiators. They need different repairs, so tell the contractor which you have when you call.
Common boiler problems
- No heat: ignition, thermostat, circulator pump or low water
- Some radiators cold: air in the system or a balancing problem
- Pressure too high or water from the relief valve: expansion tank or fill valve
- Banging or kettling noises: air, sediment or steam-pipe pitch
- Leaks at radiators or pipe joints
Replacement and high-efficiency boilers
Modern condensing boilers are far more efficient than older cast-iron units, but they need correct venting and a condensate drain. A contractor should size the new boiler from a heat-loss calculation, not just copy the old unit's size.
How to get boiler repair and installation in Baltimore
- Call 443-863-5471. Tell us what's happening and where you are. Calls are answered 24/7.
- We connect you. You're put through to a licensed, independent local plumber who handles this kind of job in your area.
- Get a clear quote. The plumber explains the problem and the price before any work starts.
- You decide. Approve the work, and the plumber completes it with any permit your city or county requires.
Plumbers in Baltimore Today is a free referral service; we don't perform plumbing work ourselves. How it works.
Frequently asked questions
Should I bleed my radiators?
If a radiator is cold at the top and warm at the bottom, trapped air is likely. Bleeding hot-water radiators is a simple fix; steam radiators use automatic air vents instead.
How often should a boiler be serviced?
Once a year, before the heating season, is the common recommendation.