Boilers are a dependable and highly energy efficient way to heat your home no matter how cold it gets in the winter. But how exactly does a boiler work? If you have a boiler or are thinking of investing in one, you need to know the basics of boiler operation. This can help you recognize when something isn’t working correctly.
From strange noises to uneven heating, these signs and others mean it’s time for professional boiler repair. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about boiler operation. Then give our team a call if you need boiler repair in Morton Grove, IL.
The Basics: Understanding How a Boiler Heats Your Home
A more traditional furnace uses air to transfer heat throughout your home. Air is not a fantastic conductor of heat because it can lose temperature very quickly. Instead of using air, a boiler uses water to transfer heat. There is a large central boiler, similar to how a furnace has a large central unit.
However, in place of ductwork, a boiler instead has pipes that run throughout your home. These pipes may be under the floors or in the walls, depending on how the boiler was initially set up. As hot water flows through these pipes, heat radiates out and into your home.
The heated water then cycles back to the boiler to be used again for the next heating cycle. One great aspect of a boiler is that the pipes maintain a higher temperature even after the water has passed through. This means that heat can continue radiating out into your home for longer, ultimately elevating the energy efficiency of a boiler.
Common Boiler Problems and Repair Needs
While boilers are very well known for being sturdy units that need very little maintenance, it is still important to pay attention to signs of potential problems. Boiler problems can get serious very quickly. One of the most important things to pay attention to is boiler pressure.
In the manufacturers guide, there should be a pressure range outlined for your boiler’s optimal operation. Pressure that is too low will impact how comfortable your boiler makes your home because heat won’t transfer as well. Pressure that is too high can be dangerous and add a lot of strain to the boiler as a whole that can ultimately shorten its lifespan.
It’s also important for your boiler to remain completely airtight. If you notice a leak – even just a small one – it’s important to call for service. Water leaking out is also allowing air into the system, which can lead to corrosion that is irreversible once it begins.
Installation Considerations
One thing to think about when it comes to a boiler is that the installation process is extremely involved. Pipes have to be laid out either underneath all of your floors or inside your walls. This can require a lot of demolition that can be disruptive to your everyday life.
Most homeowners only install a boiler if they are already completing significant home renovations or if they are building a brand new house from the ground up. If you do decide to invest in a boiler, it’s a wise choice. These heaters require very little maintenance from year to year and can keep your home more consistently warm compared to a forced air system.
Contact Roberts Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. today to schedule your boiler installation or service appointment as soon as possible.