Boiler Basics: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Thinking of buying a charming old home but worried about the boiler system? No need to stress! At Standard Heating, we're here to answer your questions and help clear up any confusion about boilers. Let’s dive into some common questions homeowners have!
1. Do Boilers Actually "Boil" Water?
Nope! Modern boilers don’t boil water. The name is a throwback to the old days when steam boilers were common. Today’s boilers are water heaters, typically using natural gas to heat water to around 145-190 degrees, depending on the system.
2. How Does Boiler Heat Work?
Boilers provide radiant heat, which warms the objects in a room—unlike furnaces, which warm the air. The boiler heats water, and the hot water circulates through pipes or radiators to warm your space. This type of heat can feel more comfortable and consistent. Some boilers can even provide hot water for your home!
3. What Should I Know About My Boiler?
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Efficiency: Is your boiler standard or high-efficiency? (Standard uses metal venting; high-efficiency uses PVC pipes.)
- Type of Radiators: Do you have baseboard heaters or old cast-iron radiators?
- Maintenance: Boilers need annual check-ups to ensure they’re working efficiently and safely. Who will handle the maintenance—you or a professional?
4. Why Do Boilers Stop Working?
Boilers can have issues like pump failures or electrical problems (thermostats, controls). Air in the system or low water pressure can also prevent them from heating properly. In rare cases, the water can freeze in extremely cold conditions, so it’s a good idea to have a house sitter or emergency contact if you’re leaving during the winter.
5. Do Boilers Help with Humidity Issues?
Boilers don’t typically affect humidity—except for cast iron boilers, which may pull in dry indoor air if they're less efficient. High-efficiency boilers use outdoor air for combustion, which won’t dry out your home.
6. Are Boilers Safe Around Kids?
The risk of burns is low, especially with baseboard heaters. However, if you have old cast-iron radiators, make sure the water temperature isn’t set too high to avoid making them too hot to touch.
7. Do Boilers Waste Water or Energy?
Nope! Boilers are closed systems, meaning they don’t waste water, and modern boilers are as energy-efficient as gas furnaces.
8. How Do I Know if My Boiler Is Efficient?
An annual tune-up from Standard Heating will help ensure your boiler is running smoothly and efficiently.
9. Can I Make My Old Boiler More Efficient?
Unfortunately, no. Boilers shouldn’t be altered because they are designed to specific standards. But if your system is 20-30 years old, it might be time to consider replacing it with a more efficient model.
10. What’s Involved in Replacing a Boiler?
Replacing a boiler can be simple or complex, depending on your home’s system. Our experienced technicians will assess your home’s heating needs to help you choose the best option for comfort and efficiency.
Ready to schedule a boiler tune-up or get a free estimate? Schedule an Appointment Today