Keep the Home Warm With a Boiler
Boilers are a popular heating source in homes in the region. A home with a boiler system will be warm and inviting all winter long and likely have lower bills than a forced-air system. Sadly, boilers have a bad reputation for those who don’t have one in their homes.
Historically, boilers have been seen as smoke-belching, dangerous machines that contribute to climate change, but with modern boilers, this simply isn’t true. Here is a quick guide to boilers to help owners and non-owners alike understand these heating systems.
Basics of Boilers
Boilers use water to transport heat around the home. While water is harder to heat, it holds its heat for longer. When the heated water is pumped to radiators or baseboard heaters, it provides an inviting, long-lasting heat without the air turbulence from blowers, fans, and ductwork.
Contrary to conceptions, modern boiler systems are safe and efficient. Because they use water to transport heat, they can reach up to 96% efficiency. By stopping the heat process before water transforms into steam, boilers avoid the engineering and safety hazards they once were known for.
Common Boiler Problems to Watch For
For owners who have only ever lived in homes with central heating, there is a learning curve to understanding potential problems with boilers. The problems afflicting boilers are more akin to plumbing problems than AC problems. Watch out for things like:
- Leaks: Problems like leaks can occur in the boiler or within the piping and radiators. They manifest as spots of corrosion or wet spots on the floor.
- Sediment in the Tank: Called “kettling,” sediment builds up when the boiler isn’t blown down often enough. This interferes with heating, causing bills to spike, as evidenced by a rumbling sound during operation.
- Pilot Issues: Most boilers have a pilot light that fires the burner upon startup. If the light is out or the flame is orange, the burner may not light when needed.
Tips to Keep a Boiler Running More Efficiently
Boilers are over-engineered to offer years of service as long as they and their piping are maintained. Professionals recommend a boiler service company perform boiler maintenance annually to ensure reliable and efficient operation. Likewise, there are certain tasks owners should perform to keep the systems efficient. These can include: - Checking the pressure
- Verifying the water level
- Listening for sounds that indicate problems
- Bleeding the radiators to remove trapped air
By learning how the system operates and working with experts, homeowners can enjoy decades of service at a low cost with modern hot water boilers.
About PHD Mechanical Inc
PHD Mechanical Inc. is the local expert in plumbing and heating with boilers. Their skilled teams offer personalized options to fit every need or budget. Call today for boiler services in Denville, NJ.
