It’s that time of year again in Derby. The coldest months of winter tend to bring about more service and repair calls, which usually results in the need for new heating systems. From furnaces to boilers, there are a number of products on the market that will ensure you’re warm. What’s a boiler you ask? Let’s take a look.
Different Designs of Boilers
A boiler is a type of HVAC equipment used to heat your home, and it uses either steam or hot water to do so. Both use a boiler to heat the water and a radiant system to provide heat to all of the rooms in a home.
Steam Boilers
You could compare steam boilers to a teapot. These systems boil water to make steam, which is directed to radiators around your home. Generating more steam increases the pressure in the system and pushes the steam throughout the system. Radiators have air vents that open to release the pressure – and the heat – into your rooms. The steam then cools, condenses to water and returns to the boiler to be reheated. Steam boilers are usually powered with natural gas or propane.
Hot Water Boilers
Hot water boilers operate similarly but circulate hot water around your home instead of steam. When you increase the heat, water begins to warm up and is transported through the radiant system when it has reached your desired temperature. Water boilers are able to be fueled using either oil or gas, however, oil-fired boilers are not usually utilized outside of New England and the Northeast U.S.
Benefits of Using a Boiler
Boilers are known for their virtually soundless operation. In fact, you most likely won’t hear a boiler running at all unless there’s an issue with the system. And, because radiant systems use pipes that are installed in the walls or floor, boilers can give you a more comfortable and even heat. Another perk is that boilers don’t blow air around, helping lessen the allergens in the air.
Selecting the right heating system for your home can be a tough decision. Although they are often more expensive than furnaces, boilers offer quieter and more even heating for your home. If you’d like to learn more about the high-efficiency boilers available in Derby, give Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning a call at 203-772-8319.