Replacing Boilers in Boulder
Alongside furnaces, boilers are the most common heating system in homes. Whether it is an electric, gas or oil-burning boiler that produces either steam or hot water, there are now high-efficiency options for every type of boiler. According to Energy.gov, older “boiler systems had efficiencies in the range of 56-70%, [while] modern conventional heating systems can achieve efficiencies as high as 98.5%.” Marmot Heating, Cooling and Plumbing in Boulder employs technicians with a high level of experience and training in repairing or installing boilers.
Top 3 Tips on Replacing a Boiler in Boulder
- Investigate all possible ways to improve the overall energy efficiency of your home before calling a heating contractor to assess how big of a boiler you will need. Buying the smallest unit necessary will save you money upfront and in the long run because a properly sized boiler will run most efficiently.
- Look for a sealed combustion model that does not require a draft hood or damper. A boiler that takes in air and exhausts gases directly to the outside does not draw in already heated air, nor risk releasing dangerous gases into your home.
- Next, be sure to compare the AFUE, or annual fuel utilization efficiency, and warranties of each option. Units with the ENERGY STAR label will be the most efficient, and will have the biggest effect on reducing your heating bill!
As most Boulder residents are environmentally-conscious, it may also interest you to know that “upgrading your boiler from 56% to 90% efficiency in an average cold-climate house will save 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year if you heat with gas, or 2.5 tons if you heat with oil.” After your new unit is installed, keep your boiler operating at its peak efficiency by having an HVAC technician perform regular maintenance. Marmot Heating, Cooling and Plumbing in Boulder can maintain, repair, retrofit or install any type of boiler to keep your heat high and your utility bill low!
