The boiler is essential because it is responsible for making steam or heating the water in your home or building. Therefore, you need to buy a product that works well and for a long time. Various factors determine what type of boiler you will need to purchase, such as size, budget, and availability. Please continue reading to find four of the best tips you can use when selecting a boiler for your heating needs.
Fuel Source
Natural gas is one of the most common types of systems, and fuel oil is another. If gas is being pumped to a utility main and you have a monthly bill for the amount of gas you use, your system is natural gas. However, if your property has an oil tank in the basement, in the backyard underground, or in your garage, the system uses fuel oil. It would be best to know what fuel source you have before going shopping for a boiler.
Water or Steam Systems?
Once you know the fuel source you are going with, you will need to find out if your system is water or steam. Water is often easier to find; however, steam systems are also reliable, comfortable, and efficient products. A well-maintained and properly used steam system could provide good heating for a long time. One way you can find out if you have a water or steam system is by looking at the piping. A single pipe leaving the boiler and no tube returning to the system typically means it is steam. Boilers without an air vent are water systems.
Repair and Maintenance
Sometimes the boiler doesn’t need to be repaired, which can save you time and money. In these instances, burner service is all you need to keep your system running smoothly. You can have a reputable company come to your home—even for emergency services—and keep your boiler running at optimal efficiency.
Sizing Matters
If you purchase a too large boiler, it will make the device less effective, increasing your monthly heating costs. This is due to oversized boilers wasting fuel and having a shortened lifespan, which means you need to replace the product sooner than expected. If you select the wrong-sized boiler, it may only work for short periods throughout the day and turn off as soon as it becomes overheated. When making a purchase, speak with a contractor or store representative to find out more about size selection.
These are some of the factors to consider when purchasing the best boiler for your heating needs. Always take your time when making a selection and choose a product that is effective, efficient, and within your budget.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChaplan
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