Lost power, flooding can damage heating systems

Long Island weathered the force of Tropical Storm Irene pretty well, but there has been considerable damage to structures near the shores and, of course, loss of power because of fallen trees.
Once things return to normal for homeowners they might want to make their heating systems a priority. Loss of power and flooding could mean serious damaged to both oil- and gas-fired systems.
Ed Schoen of Prestige Heating Service in Massapequa, NY, has been busy replacing heat chambers and burners to oil-fired systems over the past 3-4 days. Flooding is the major cause of damage to many of his customers' systems, he said.
But just a loss of power could mean the heating system experienced an electrical surge, which can damage sensors and components.
Here's Ed's advice: "Once the system goes back on, use your senses. Look, feel, hear, smell. If there's something different about your system -- you smell something or hear something -- then shut it down."
Many boilers also provide hot water for homes, so once power is restored a homeowner might want hot water for bathing, laundry, etc.
Schoen just warns the homeowner to beware. And to schedule a seasonal inspection immediately.
Inspections normally are performed just before the heating season, but Irene is a good reason to push ahead the appointment for your annual visit from a licensed technician.