Boiler Installation, Maintenance, and Repair

While you may pay more upfront for a high-efficiency boiler system, they tend to be worth the investment. They have an efficiency rating of up to 98% and they vent through PVC piping, putting up to 98% of the heat generated into the water used to heat your home. Upgrading to a high-efficiency boiler can save your home 15-20% of its energy.

Steam boilers are not very common, therefore it’s important you find a company like 1st Choice that has technicians who are knowledgeable about steam boiler systems.

You will be able to tell that it’s time to replace your steam boiler when:

1. Your energy bills are increasing
2. The flame burns yellow, instead of blue
3. The boiler can’t warm your whole house anymore

Servicing a steam boiler includes:

• Inspection of the automatic feeder
• Checking the pressure control
• Testing the burner and thermostats
• Inspecting the pigtail
• Checking the operation of low water cut of control
• Testing for proper and safe combustion
• Inspection of the chimney for drafts and leaks
• Replacement of defective vents if necessary

Radiant heat is more ideal than baseboard and forced-air heating systems. It’s more efficient because you don’t lose heat through gaps or ductwork and since it doesn’t blow air out, people with allergies have an easier time with it. Radiant floor heating relies on convection – the natural air circulating in a room is what helps the heat rise.

Three Types of Radiant Heat

1. Radiator

Radiator heating systems are a high-mass radiant type that radiates heat into a room as the water heats it. They are usually large, cast-iron fixtures that are placed under or near windows.

2. Cast Iron Baseboard

Cast iron baseboard heating systems are a medium-mass radiant type that are fixed onto the baseboard and begin convecting air when they heat up.

3. Copper Fin Baseboard

Copper fin baseboard heating systems are a low-mass radiant type and sit at the baseboard level of a home. They use a copper tube that runs through aluminum fins to begin convecting.