There are steam and hot water boilers. Steam systems can be either 2 or 1 pipe systems. Water is always 2 pipe and typically will have a circulation pump.
Similar to furnaces there are mid and high efficient boilers. There is no restriction on the sales of mid efficient boilers. Both styles will typically have a pump to circulate the water, either radiators or baseboard heat.
A boiler operates by heating water or glycol to a preset temperature (or in the case of steam, until it boils) and circulates that fluid throughout the home typically by radiators, baseboard heaters or in-floors.
The name "boiler" can be a misnomer in that, except for systems using steam radiators, the water never actually boils. Hydronic systems are being used more and more in new construction in North America for several reasons. Among the reasons are:
Water Heating with Your Boiler
There is the option to use your boiler to heat potable (domestic) hot water. This can be done within the boiler as an option to heat the domestic water through a heat exchanger before storing the hot water in a tank. These well-insulated tanks operate as a separate heating zone with substantially reduced heat losses and higher efficiencies as compared to tankless coils.
Proper maintenance of your boiler involves cleaning, checking input air dampers, pilot light (igniters) and adjusting burner tips. Draining vessels and removing sediment increase efficiency and reduce the risk of cracking.
Common Heating Problems
Energy Bill Savings Tips
Ensure your heating system is warming your home at optimum levels when you want it. Here's how you can save: