Boilers, Hot Water Heaters and What They Do
When homeowners think of heating, a reliable furnace is probably the first thing you think of. But plumbing appliances like your hot water heater and even boilers are just as beneficial. Your hot water heater is vital for laundry or bathing, while boilers can be powerful solutions for whole-home heating. With a skilled team of installers and service technicians, HomeServe of New England can help make the most of these appliances.
Let’s find out how both systems are designed. You can make the right decision when you’re ready to schedule boiler installation of your own. And if you need help with any type of boiler repair, call (855) 288-8743.
How Does a Boiler Heat an Entire Home?
While furnaces are often the go-to heating system these days, boilers are highly popular options too. You can still find them in older homes by way of standing or baseboard radiators. Modern boilers are making a return thanks to technological innovations.
When the temperature drops beneath your current settings, the boiler starts heating water for distribution throughout the house. Different zone valves direct the water to each radiator thanks to a efficient circulating pump. But now, boilers can also work with modern HVAC ductwork. A hot water coil is fixed into the air ducts, heating the air with convection before it circulates through your ventilation system.
Most boilers maintain the water’s temperature between 180 to 200 degrees (F). To keep the entire supply at efficient temperatures, the circulator will keep pumping water until the coldest water has made its way back to the system. Maintaining the pressure of this system is best at around 30 pounds per square inch (psi). A gauge found on the boiler allows you to monitor both the pressure and the water’s temperature.
Other vital components include the air scoop, water feeder, expansion tank and relief valve:
- The air scoop, also known as an air separator or air purge, extracts air bubbles trapped in the water. This limits noise and stops air-bound radiation from affecting the system’s efficiency.
- Automatic water feeders continue to add water whenever necessary to keep the system full, lowering the risk of problems.
- The expansion tank removes and stores excess water generated by the heating process.
- Lastly, a relief valve keeps the water pressure at safe/efficient levels. If it isn’t working right, you risk overheating the system or putting excessive strain on it.
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First Up: How Do Conventional Water Heaters Work?
In general, a hot water heater consists of a large storage tank with integrated heating elements. Water stored inside the tank is kept hot until you need hot water somewhere else in the house. The water is heated to your desired temperature before being sent to the faucet or appliance that needs it. For energy efficiency and safety, the water heater’s thermostat should stay around 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This lowers the risk of scalding or bacterial growth.
In contrast, tankless water heaters are comparatively new and don’t use a storage tank, as the name suggests. Rather, it starts heating water as it arrives from the water main. This can be very environmentally friendly since you don’t need to constantly heat water like you would with a standard tank water heater.
Five Signs Your Boiler May Need Professional Service
Reach out to your local boiler repair specialist if you recognize any of the following signs:
1
The burner is making strange sounds or emits a smoky odor:
These burner problems often point back to an issue with the combustion process. Your technican should inspect the burner assembly itself along with the air and fuel supply lines.
Excessive air noises:
A noisy boiler can be explained by air stuck somewhere in the system, lowering efficiency. While most of the time these air pockets are in the pipes, there might be a problem with the circulation pump.
2
3
Water leaking out from the relief valve:
A leaky valve can mean that the water pressure inside your boiler is too high. This could be due to a malfunctioning pressure relief valve or that there’s something wrong with the expansion tank.
Water escaping from any of the piping connections:
Leaks at the piping connections are most likely because of damaged seals, joints or connections in the system. Addressing these leaks early prevents further damage and loss of efficiency.
4
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A burning or smell of gas:
The smell of natural gas or something burning is a concerning sign. There could be fuel leaking from the fuel supply line or a damaged burner assembly. Prompt service ensures safety and minimizes the chance of a fire.
Whether you’re looking to address a problem or you’re ready for an upgrade, HomeServe of New England can help.
We are known for repair and installation services for both hot water heaters and boilers, and our seasoned staff will find out what your boiler or hot water heater needs to stay in the best possible shape. Get in touch with us at (855) 288-8743 to arrange a free consultation.
We service all major makes and models, so give us a call today!
Save Even More with Special Offers
A complete sense of comfort shouldn’t be out of anyone’s budget. HomeServe of New England lightens the load with seasonal promotions, discounts and other special offers. These offers help lower costs for key services, new equipment or whatever else you need for your comfort and peace of mind. Check out our current offers for more details on how to save.
Committed to Comfort from the Very Start
While a long history of service is impressive, nothing is more important to customer satisfaction than a dedication to total comfort. HomeServe of New England considers your peace of mind our top priority, and that hasn’t changed since we first opened our doors. Learn more about our history, and how our communities support us just as much as we support you.
