Understanding Your Heating System
Hydronic heating is a system that uses liquid or gaseous water to transfer heat to where it's needed within a building. Water heaters heat water and push it into your sink, shower, and bathtub. The water is held in a tank and heated to a specific temperature until needed. With a tankless water heater, water makes its way over open flames to quickly heat it and move it where it's needed on demand.
A boiler works by heating water inside a tank. Once heated, the water moves in either liquid or steam form through pipes to the areas that need to be heated. Radiators and baseboards receive hot water or steam from a sealed pipe system. Most rooms have one or two radiators or baseboards. If the system is set up for that, you can adjust the temperature at each radiator. Baseboard systems use thermostats and zones to control the temperature output.
In addition to radiators and baseboards, some homes may also have in-floor heating systems connected to a boiler. These systems use hot water that circulates through tubes embedded in the floor, providing a gentle and even heat distribution throughout the space. This type of heating is often considered more comfortable and efficient, as it heats objects and people directly, rather than relying on air currents to distribute heat.
In addition to radiators and baseboards, some homes may also have in-floor heating systems connected to a boiler. These systems use hot water that circulates through tubes embedded in the floor, providing a gentle and even heat distribution throughout the space. This type of heating is often considered more comfortable and efficient, as it heats objects and people directly, rather than relying on air currents to distribute heat.
Benefits of Using A Water-Based Heating System
Water-based heating systems offer many benefits for homeowners and people with commercial property. The energy efficiency of these systems helps keep your utility bills lower. The effectiveness of a water-based heating system keeps your family comfortable throughout a cold winter. You'll enjoy a heating system that offers longevity and doesn't require replacements as often as other heating systems.
Boiler Heating System
Boilers can be used to heat homes through various systems:
- Radiators: These traditional heating units are often found in older homes. While they can be controlled individually, many modern systems use zones and thermostats for more efficient temperature management.
- Baseboards: Baseboard heaters are another common type of boiler-powered heating system. They are typically installed along baseboards and provide a consistent heat source.
- In-Floor Heating: This modern system involves installing tubes beneath the floor and circulating hot water through them. In-floor heating offers a gentle, even heat distribution and can be more comfortable than traditional heating methods.
Common boiler issues
Boiler issues can arise from various factors, including:
- Pilot Light Extinguishment: A common problem is the pilot light going out, which can prevent the boiler from igniting.
- Leaks: Leaks can occur in different parts of the boiler, such as seals and gaskets. These can lead to water damage and reduced efficiency.
Boiler maintenance
- To ensure optimal performance and longevity, regular maintenance is essential. This includes:
- Annual Cleaning: Cleaning the boiler helps remove dirt and debris that can reduce efficiency and cause malfunctions.
- Pressure Checks: Regularly checking the pressure gauge ensures that the boiler operates within the recommended pressure range. High or low pressure can indicate problems that require attention.
Types of Systems We Repair & Install
Indirect Water Tanks
An indirect water heater is an insulated storage tank that is connected to a boiler. An indirect water heater doesn’t have any heating elements of its own as all of the heat is supplied from the boiler instead. If you need your indirect water tank repaired or need it replaced, we can handle the project.
In-Floor Heat
In-floor heat is a system of tubing installed in the floor to heat the room. Hot water flows from the boiler to the tubing and heats the floor. It is a comfortable and consistent type of heat for a home or business. We have installed a number of these systems in the Butte area and know the proper way to do the job.
Hot Water Boiler Systems
Want to replace your old cast iron boiler? Need a new high-efficiency boiler for your in-floor system? Need to move your baseboard? Have a heating zone that isn't working? We handle all work related to hot water boiler systems.
Snow Melt Systems
Tired of shoveling your driveway each time it snows? We can install a snow melt system at your home or business and you can say good-bye to the shovel!
Steam Boiler Systems
Have a commercial steam boiler that needs to be repaired or replaced? Need some work done on the steam boiler and radiators in your home? We have the skills and knowledge to manage your steam heating project.
Forced Air Heating
Do you have a forced air system that you need help with? Our other business, Lockmer Sheet Metal, Inc can help you out. Give us a call today!
We Service Residential & Commercial Boilers
Residential
We work on all residential hot water and steam heating. Give us a call and we will get you scheduled.
Commercial
We work on all commercial hydronic heating systems. We have the crew to get your commercial project completed on time and on budget.