A boiler is a heating system that generates heat by boiling water and distributing it throughout a building to provide warmth and, in some cases, hot water. Unlike furnaces, which heat air and circulate heat via ducts, boilers use water or steam circulated through pipes to radiators for heat transfer.
Boilers are commonly used in both residential and commercial settings and can run on various fuels, including natural gas, oil, propane, or electricity. With the integration of automation devices, sensors, and smart controls, today’s boilers deliver greater performance, lower fuel consumption, and quieter operation than traditional furnace systems. Moreover, they rely on water circulation rather than forced air, which helps reduce airborne dust and allergens, contributing to overall indoor air quality.
How Does a Boiler Work?
A boiler operates by using a combination of heat and pressure to raise the temperature of water. Depending on the design and heating needs, a boiler may produce hot water or steam.
A boiler uses a fuel source (oil, natural gas, propane, or electricity) to heat water inside a sealed tank. A circulation pump then moves this hot water through a closed loop of pipes that run throughout the home.
Radiators (or baseboards) sit along this loop and act as the points where heat is released into the rooms. After the water or steam transfers its heat, it returns to the boiler to be reheated, and the cycle continues.
Types of Boilers
While all boilers operate on the same basic principle – heating water and distributing it through a closed loop – they differ in design, fuel source, and efficiency. The most common types include:
- Natural Gas Boilers: Fueled by natural gas, they are efficient and are widely used. They are typically less expensive to operate compared to oil or electric systems.
- Oil-Fired Boilers: These burn oil to produce hot water or steam and are common in areas without access to natural gas.
- Electric Boilers: Use electric resistance to generate heat. They are cleaner and quieter but often cost more to operate.
- Condensing Boilers: They capture and reuse heat from exhaust gases, achieving greater efficiency than standard boilers.
- Combination (Combi) Boilers: A compact system that provides both space heating and hot water on demand. They are highly popular in residential setups.
HVAC Boiler Maintenance
Routine boiler maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of a boiler. It involves several key practices that help maintain performance and prolong the system’s lifespan. An annual professional inspection by a qualified HVAC technician is essential to thoroughly inspect, clean, and test all components.
Here are some DIY maintenance tasks you can do to ensure optimal functioning.
- Check the boiler’s water level and adjust if needed.
- Bleed radiators regularly to release trapped air.
- Inspect and clean vents and the chimney.
- Check for leaks around the heat exchanger.
- Monitor and adjust the pressure gauge. It should be between 1-2 bars.
- Descale the boiler to remove sediment buildup.
- Clean the heat exchanger to prevent soot buildup and improve energy efficiency.
