Edmonton Boiler Installation

When you’re experiencing boiler issues and it comes down to installation versus repairs, the best solution really depends on the nature and extent of damage, as well as your existing system’s age. When maintained properly a boiler can have a long life of 20-30 years or more. However, if it has not been maintained well, or the damage is severe or widespread, a new boiler installation may be more cost-effective than repair because of factors such as time, durability, and repeated repair costs.

AFUE is an acronym for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, which is a ratio that compares the amount of fuel your heater uses in a year versus its annual heat output. An AFUE rating, which is usually expressed as a percentage, indicates how much heat you get in exchange for fuel. For example, a heater with an AFUE rating of 85% converts 85% of the fuel it uses into thermal energy, while 15% is lost.

There are minimum AFUE ratings for new systems that vary depending on the fuel type, but a new model should be at least 80%. Some electric units can achieve 95 to 100% AFUE. Over time, a unit loses efficiency and its rating drops, so an older system could have a rating of 60% or even lower. That’s why boiler installation can significantly reduce energy costs. A new heater is also more environmentally friendly because it uses less fuel to provide the same amount of heat.

Both are hot water systems, so they sometimes get confused with each other. But each machine actually provides very different services. A hot water heater warms up water (usually by reserving it in a large tank, unless you have a tankless water heater). Water heaters should be used for domestic hot water needs only. For example, when you turn on the hot water tap on a plumbing fixture, warm water comes out of the faucet for you to use for cleaning, bathing, cooking and so on.

A boiler, on the other hand, heats up water and moves it throughout its system, so the hot water’s radiant heat warms up your home. You don’t come into contact with the water inside a radiant heater—unless something has gone wrong or you are maintaining the system. It recirculates and continues to be heated, so it can disperse warmth into the air. Boilers can be used to heat your domestic hot water. However, water heaters should not be used to heat spaces.

There isn't really a standard size, because the machine needs to be sized appropriately to heat your entire space. The capacity is measured in BTUs (British thermal units), and the formula to calculate the size you need for depends on multiple factors, such as:

• Size of the building
• Climate in Edmonton
• Age of the building
• Quality and amount of insulation in the building

A building that has less-efficient insulation or has deteriorated over the years and lets in drafts needs more heating power than a building that is well insulated and sealed against drafts. Larger homes naturally require more BTUs as well. You don't have to calculate the correct size by yourself—our expert technicians are experienced with Edmonton boiler installation, and we know exactly how to assess your building and calculate the correct size and BTU output for Edmonton homes.

When you’re looking for the right boiler for your home, it makes sense to do a little research on the options available to you. There are a couple of different ways to break down your options for boiler installation into categories. One way is by fuel type, and that includes options such as:

• Condensing boilers
• Natural gas
• Steam boilers
• Electric
• Oil-fired models

Keep in mind that natural gas, while it’s a very efficient and reliable fuel, does pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when the system is damaged or deteriorated. That shouldn't necessarily scare you away from choosing natural gas, but it’s prudent to make sure you hire regular maintenance services for your system and gas supply. You should also have carbon monoxide detectors installed on every level of your home. The other way of categorizing boilers is by equipment function, which includes choices such as:

• Combination boilers, also known as a combi boiler (domestic hot water and heating)
• Conventional boiler or heat-only system

The best system type for your property will depend on factors such as your building’s size and your individual needs. If you aren't sure what to choose for Edmonton boiler installation, our experienced service technicians can consult with you and walk you through some of the excellent options that will work for your house and requirements.

The absolute best way to keep your unit in fantastic condition, so you can avoid repairs and future Edmonton boiler installation for longer, is regular maintenance from a professional plumber. An annual tune-up will go a long way toward extending the unit’s lifespan. It also gives your Edmonton plumber the chance to notice and correct small problems before they spiral out of control and become big, time-consuming, expensive headaches.

Whether you’re in St. Albert, Sherwood Park, or another part of the Edmonton area, you can rely on the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton for quality workmanship and customer service.

Give us a call today to schedule a service appointment, or to find out more about Edmonton boiler installation and other plumbing services like Edmonton drain cleaning from our friendly customer care staff.