Many older homes and buildings use boilers for heating. But how do boilers work? Buying an older home with a boiler might make you feel intimidated. In this blog, the experts at P.K. Wadsworth Heating & Cooling explain how boilers work, their benefits, and any common issues to expect with your boiler.
What Is a Boiler & How Does It Work?
Broilers produce radiant heat — a process by which hot water circulates through pipes or radiators to warm your space, as opposed to other forms of heating that heat the air. Many homeowners prefer radiant heat because it feels more consistent throughout the home.
Boilers can heat your home in two ways: through baseboard heaters and older cast-iron radiators. Some boilers can even provide hot water.
What You Should Know About Boilers
Are you considering buying a home with a boiler or installing one in your current home? Learn more about this efficient, long-lasting heating option and what common problems you might encounter.
Benefits of Boilers
- Efficiency: Some high-efficiency models have up to 95% efficiency ratings, depending on your boiler. This means they convert almost all the fuel they use into heat when heating your home. Comparatively, a standard furnace is only about 80% efficient.
- Cost savings: Because boilers are efficient, they tend to cost less to operate. This means you can keep your home warm all winter without worrying about blowing your budget.
- Durability and longevity: Boilers are also cost-efficient because they tend to last a long time. With proper maintenance, the typical lifespan of a boiler is 15 to 20 years.
Common Boiler Issues
Any HVAC system can malfunction, and boilers are no exception, even if they are one of the most durable heating options. If you have a boiler in your home, be aware of these potential issues and schedule boiler repair ASAP if any of them occur:
- Leaking: Because boilers use water to heat your home, leaking and dripping are common issues. Old parts, an aging seal, or pipe corrosion typically cause this.
- Kettling: Anyone who has used a boiler will be familiar with the tea kettle whistling sound that boilers and radiators can make. Your radiator might also make a clanging or rumbling noise. This is relatively normal, but if it’s a persistent issue, you’ll want a technician to look at it.
- Pilot light issues: Gas boilers have a blue flame underneath the unit that keeps it lit and running. It’s common for pilot lights to go out, especially in older units.
- Radiator issues: If your boiler relies on radiators to deliver heat to your home, you may experience issues with your radiators heating inconsistently.
How to Maintain Your Boiler
Because they have fewer moving parts than furnaces, boilers are easy to maintain and need fewer tune-ups. However, it’s still essential to have a trained HVAC technician service your boiler annually to ensure it’s working correctly and to maximize its life span.
Schedule Boiler Services With P.K. Wadsworth Heating & Cooling, Cleveland’s Boiler Experts
Whether you’re considering buying an older home with a boiler or need repairs for your current heating system, turn to P.K. Wadsworth Heating & Cooling. For over 85 years, we’ve been the Cleveland area’s leading family-owned and -operated HVAC company.
There are many benefits to working with us, like:
- 100% satisfaction guaranteed
- Annual maintenance options
- Deals, promotions, and financing options
- Same-day service availability
P.K. Wadsworth Heating & Cooling is your trusted boiler expert. Contact us today to schedule boiler services in Cleveland, OH, and the surrounding areas.
