Shopping for a New Boiler? How to Choose

Purchasing a new boiler can seem like a daunting task. Once you understand how boilers work, different types of fuel possibilities and efficiency ratings, you’ll be in a better position to determine which boiler is best for your unique needs. Let these factors be a guide to buying a new boiler.

How Boilers Work

Boilers heat water to provide heat for the home. The heated water travels through a network of pipes and transfers heat to the radiators, baseboards or home’s radiant floor system. The water is then returned to the boiler for a continuous heating cycle. Condensing boilers are the best types for energy efficiency. These units reuse heat that would’ve been released in the atmosphere from the flue.

Boilers can operate with a variety of fuel sources, including oil, natural gas, propane gas and electricity. Knowing the fuel costs in your region can help you determine which boiler is best for you when it comes to operational costs. Although electric boilers are highly efficient and range from 90 to 100 percent in energy efficiency, electricity is one of the most expensive resources in the United States when compared to natural gas, propane gas and oil. Since natural gas is mostly produced domestically, it’s the least expensive way to fuel a boiler. Over 50 percent of homes in the United States use natural gas. In rural areas, natural gas may not be an option, and propane gas is the popular alternative. Oil-fired boilers can cost up to three times more to operate than propane gas and natural gas. Due to the reliance of oil from Middle Eastern countries, prices are often unstable and high.

Choosing a High Efficiency Boiler

High efficiency boilers range from 90 to 98 percent annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). This percentage measures how much energy is actually converted and used for heat. For example, a boiler with an AFUE of 90 percent loses only 10 percent of energy during the heating process and distribution. Even though high efficiency boilers cost more than mid-efficiency ones, you save more money over the unit’s lifespan with lower energy expenses. There are also local, state, federal and utility company programs that offer incentives and rebates on qualifying energy efficient boilers.

HVAC Products and Services at Climate Master Mechanical Contractors

At Climate Master Mechanical Contractors in Mokena, IL, we carry and install leading brand oil and gas boilers. With our radiant heat systems, you don’t get the noise and draft of forced-air systems. Our boilers also come with high AFUE ratings for efficiency and less consumption of fuel. We also offer Internet coupons for savings on select systems and boiler tune-ups. Be sure to turn to us for any of your heating needs.