pure air in your home

Buying A New Heating System? Facts About Condensing Boilers

by Feride Halma

If you're in the market for a new heating system, you should consider buying a condensing boiler. A condensing boiler system uses a large exchanger system that preserves the heat from the burner, minimizing loss. Here's a look at some things you should know about these heating systems before you dismiss them as an option.

You Won't Need a Specialty Radiator

Most boilers come with a radiator that's crafted to hold up to severe weather and extreme temperatures. They're also typically larger than your system really needs, which is important for maximum heat production. This means that you shouldn't need to invest in a larger, specialty radiator for a condensing boiler, because the radiator you have should be more than sufficient.

They Aren't Hard to Install

Condensing boilers install in almost the same manner as a traditional boiler, only you also have to install a condensate drain. The condensate drain serves an important role. Though most condensing boilers produce minimal runoff, you'll need a way for that runoff to flow away from the boiler itself. The condensate drain will direct the runoff wherever you want it to go. In most cases, you'll want to have the drain installed by a professional to be sure that it's angled correctly for optimal flow.

Once the drain is installed, the heating contractor will also need to check the flue gas evacuation path. Since the flue gas is cool when it exits the boiler, you may see some mist coming out around the flue. When the weather gets cooler, you'll see more condensation from the difference in the air temperature. The plume, which directs the gases away from the boiler, shouldn't be pointing toward a window, doorway or other active walkway. Keep in mind that the escaping condensation from the plume could freeze in cold temperatures, so you'll want to make sure it's out of the way for safety.

You Can Even Install Condensing Boilers in Existing Systems

If you currently have a traditional boiler, you can easily replace it with a condensing boiler. Just make sure that you work with a heating contractor, like those at Fred's Plumbing & Heating Repairs, to evaluate the current system design to be sure that your condensing boiler will fit. You might even be able to accommodate a wall-mount boiler in your system, which clears up a lot of floor space.

Before you invest in a new heating system for your home, it's important that you consider all of your options. Don't dismiss the possibility of a condensing boiler without understanding how they work. There are many misconceptions out there, so the information presented here may help you to be better informed before you decide.

Share