Boiler Questions and Answers

What is a boiler? A boiler is a heating system that uses hot water instead of air. To heat the home. A boiler system will use stand up or baseboard radiators to distribute the heat rather than duct work that is used in a forced air system.

Is it necessary to service a boiler on a regular basis? Yes. A Precision Tune Up should be performed on a boiler once a year. Boilers can soot up which creates inefficient operation. A boiler that is not maintained may also be a source of carbon monoxide. A thorough tune up will include testing for carbon monoxide.

What does the Precision Tune Up include? Our service technician will clean the burner/pilot, check for water leaks, bleed air from the system, check safety devices, pumps, expansion tanks and venting.

Why do some of my radiators work and some don’t? Typically this is a water pressure problem. Our technician will raise water pressures to the most efficient level and bleed air from the system if necessary.

Are boilers and efficient way to heat a home? Yes. The efficiency depends on the age and design of the boiler but many are very efficient. The radiators which move the heated water stay warm long after the boiler has shut down. This is not the case in a forced air system.

Can I have central air conditioning if I have a boiler heating system in my home? Yes. Many homes that have boilers also benefit from a central air conditioning system that is able to cool the entire home. Bonfe’s can provide options that will fit the design of your home, will met your comfort needs and fit nicely into your project’s budget.