Heating season is here, and for some of us that means it’s time to consider installing a new heating system for our homes. If you’re one of those homeowners looking for a new heating solution, consider installing a boiler system this fall. Let’s take a look at how a boiler system operates, and how it can benefit you.
Boiler-Based Heating
A boiler heating system works by pumping hot water through a pipe network installed in the walls and subfloor of each room in the house. As the water flows through the pipes, the heat from it radiates through them, the floor or wall, and into the room. This method is called “radiant heating.” Sometimes, there are terminal devices like radiators or baseboard heaters installed as part of the pipe network.
Advantages of Boiler Heating Systems
The first advantage you need to know about boiler-based heating systems is that they are very energy efficient. In forced-air systems like furnaces, a massive amount of energy can be lost to things like duct leaks. Air is also a worse thermal transport medium than water is, as it holds less heat and cools off faster. Boiler systems don’t use ducts, and use water to transport heat, which means that they deliver much more heat to the target destination.
Boiler systems also heat spaces much more evenly than forced-air systems. Warm air rises to the top of a room and sinks as it cools. This creates uncomfortable hot and cold spaces throughout the house. Boiler systems keep heat near the bottom of the room, since the thermal energy is transmitted through solid objects. No more hot and cold spots, which is more comfortable for you.
If you’d like to know more, call Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning. We serve all of Chicago, IL.