What to Expect From a Brand New Boiler
When it comes time to replace your heater, there are many options to consider. If you’ve never put much thought into heating systems before, you most likely own a furnace—it’s a common choice and requires a hassle-free installation. However, you could be missing out on one of the best heating systems out there: the boiler.
We’ll tell you what you can expect from a brand new boiler, and why you might consider getting one.
But First, Why Choose a Boiler?
Furnaces and heat pumps—also known as forced-air heaters are some of the most commonly used heaters in the country. So, why bother with a boiler installation in Belen, NM? There are many reasons that boilers come out on top above these other types of heaters.
- More Even Heating: Forced-air heaters will heat your rooms quickly, but they don’t always do so evenly. It can be difficult for some rooms to receive complete heating, especially if those rooms tend to stay cold (it’s so common, they’re referred to as “cold spots”). Boilers avoid this issue with radiant heating.
- Better Comfort: Homeowners agree that boilers offer a form of heating that simply feels better. Forced-air heating can leave the room quite dry, especially if you’re already sensitive to dry air.
- Better Air Quality: Forced-air heaters blow air around, meaning it can also blow around dust and other indoor contaminants.
What to Consider from Installation
One of the main disadvantages of a new boiler is the installation process. A better boiler is going to require a more expensive installation, but you’ll get much lower operational costs with more advanced boilers. Here are some things to think on before installing a boiler:
- Complexity: Most homes are already equipped to have forced-air heaters installed in them. A boiler, on the other hand, doesn’t lend itself to an easy installation. It might be more costly than your budget allows.
- Type of Installation: You have a choice between using radiator, or radiant heating systems. Radiators heat the air, and that warm air rises. Radiant heating systems consist of pipes installed beneath the floor or behind the walls. Radiant heating ensures even heating, but it does require a lengthier installation.
- Fuel Source: You’ll want to choose a fuel source based on what’s most cost-effective. Natural gas, electricity, coal, and oil are all options. Electricity is efficient, but the cost of electricity isn’t always cheap. Gas is a great option, but not everyone has access to gas lines.
Longevity and Repairs
Forced-air heaters are expected to last about 10 to 15 years. They also come with their own problems, like the need for ductwork. While there’s technically nothing wrong with ducts, they can develop leaks and lead to wasted energy. Boilers don’t require ducts at all, and they’re generally more efficient for many reasons:
- Less Frequent Repairs: Of course, the number of repairs your boiler needs can be substantially lowered with regular maintenance. That being said, boilers don’t have nearly as many moving parts as forced-air heaters. They tend to need repairs less frequently for this reason.
- Fuel Efficiency: When comparing a gas furnace to a gas boiler, boilers use that fuel much more efficiently. You can expect lower monthly operational costs.
- Lifespan: A properly maintained boiler can last up to 20 years—possibly longer. They may be an investment, but it’s one you’ll keep for a long time.