A boiler system has multiple uses within your home: it warms water for your shower, heats your radiators and radiant floors, and can also be connected to a heated driveway with a snow-melting system.
The two main mechanisms for heating buildings are furnaces and boilers. When functioning, furnaces heat the air and distribute warm air throughout your home using ducts. Boilers, on the other hand, heat water and use the heated water or steam to distribute heat using radiators.
Boiler systems have been used for hundreds of years and are still widely used today. If you're considering installing a boiler system in your home or business, there are things you should know. Keep reading, and we'll enlighten you on the ins and outs of the boiler system.
Types of Boilers
There are several different types of boilers that you might use to heat your home or business. Easily the most common are hot water boilers, which use gas heaters and pumps to boil the water and send it to the radiators.
Another popular option is the natural gas boilers. It takes natural gas from the city pipeline or a propane tank and, using an electric ignition and temperature gauge, helps you use less fuel to heat your home.
Oil, steam, condensing, and combo boilers are also available, though far less common than those we just mentioned. The essential boiler features common to all types include an energy source, heating implements, temperature gauges, water tanks, pumps, and radiators.
Boiler Life Expectancy
Upon installation, a boiler should last between 20 and 25 years. What will shorten your boiler's lifespan is a lack of maintenance. Things like corrosion and sediment buildup can affect your boiler's performance, which puts more strain on it as it tries to reach your desired temperature.
There are lots of mechanical parts to a boiler, any of which can break down at any time. If you don't want to be stranded in the frigid eastern Ontario winter weather, it's important to have your boiler serviced regularly.
Boiler Maintenance Routine
Some boiler maintenance can be done at home. Start by inspecting beneath the water tank for leaks and ensuring that there are no obstructions around the boiler itself. Check the temperature gauge to see if it's within the desired temperature, and keep an eye out for any error codes that appear.
In addition, check to see that things like ice or snow don't block the termination vent and that there aren't any other blockages. Other than that, periodically check for any signs of corrosion or degradation in any of the parts. If you see anything concerning, call a professional for help.
Cost of Boilers
The cost of boiler installation varies depending on your needs. When you have a more extensive system, you need a specialized technician in hydronic boilers which is what we specialize in at Clement Marchand. In most cases, boilers are the more energy-efficient heating option, especially the newer models.
Boiler Systems: Are They Right for Your Home?
Now that you know a bit more about boiler systems, you can decide whether or not you want one to keep your home warm. As we said, the newest boilers on the market are extremely efficient and can save you money on your bills.
To talk to a professional about choosing between a boiler and a furnace, contact us at Clement Marchand today and let us help you decide.