Boiler systems are widely used in residences throughout Massachusettts and come in a variety of options. Gas boilers in particular are an efficient way to heat your home and water, eliminating the need for a separate water heater tank. Here’s what to know and how N.E.T.R., Inc. can help with all your gas boiler needs.
What Is A Gas Boiler & How Does It Work?
A boiler system heats large amounts of water and pumps it throughout the home using a radiator system. Since heat rises, these are usually located around the baseboards or close to the floor. As the hot water travels through the radiators, it warms the air around it. The heated air rises and is replaced with cool air and the process begins again.
Boilers can be heated with electricity, gas, wood, or coal. Gas boilers work by burning propane or natural gas to generate heat, which boils the water before pumping it through the radiator system. Hence, the name boiler.
Pros & Cons Of Gas Boilers
Just like with any type of home heating equipment, gas boilers have their own pros and cons. You should carefully consider each before making a final decision:
Pros
- Gas boilers are cheaper than electric and oil boilers. Of the three, it’s cheaper to use a boiler system that heats with propane or gas than it is to run an oil or electric boiler.
- Boilers last a long time. It’s not unusual for gas boilers to last 20 or 30 years.
- Modern gas boilers are efficient. Newer gas boiler models can have efficiency ratings as high as 98%, meaning it costs less than ever to heat your home on an ongoing basis.
Cons
- Investing in a gas boiler is expensive. Electric and oil boilers are usually cheaper to purchase upfront, but cost more in the long run. Gas boilers are the opposite and cost more initially but then save money over time.
- Gas boilers pose a risk of gas leaks. Although current gas boiler models are very safe, they still have a small risk of leakage as any appliance that uses gas does.
How To Choose The Right Gas Boiler
If you’re upgrading your gas boiler or purchasing a new one, you need to choose a reliable, high-quality model that fits your needs. This can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never bought a gas-fueled boiler before. Here are some things to look for before you buy:
Capacity
Selecting a gas boiler with the appropriate capacity is critical and depends on the size of your home and the climate you live in. While moderate climates can get away with 20 to 35 British Thermal Units (BTUs) per square foot of space, cold climates like Boston need as many as 50 BTUs / sq. ft. for the same size interior.
Efficiency
When choosing a gas boiler, pay special attention to the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, which indicates how well the boiler is able to convert natural gas or propane to heat. Like the MPG rating on your vehicle, the higher the efficiency rating, the more “mileage” your boiler is getting per unit of fuel.
Moderately efficient gas boilers are generally rated between 83% to 89%, while high-efficiency boilers are rated 90% and above. Selecting a more efficient model can help you save more money on energy costs over time and keep your system running for longer.
Venting Needs
Gas boilers need to be vented appropriately to moderate their temperature and reduce the risk of air pollution. Depending on how your home is currently ventilated, you may want to choose a boiler that’s vented through a chimney or through a wall or roof vent.
You should also be aware that condensing boilers have different ventilation needs than non-condensing boilers, so you may need a larger space for the system.
Cost
Gas boilers are a valuable investment for your home. The cost of a single system varies widely depending on its size, efficiency, and features, but can range anywhere between $10,000 – $20,000.Tax credits and financing may be available for some installations.
N.E.T.R., Inc. – Your Boston Gas Boiler Installation & Service Provider Since 1986
At N.E.T.R., Inc., we can provide you with experienced gas boiler installation, maintenance, and repair in Boston, MA. Contact us today to learn more about upgrading your gas boiler, repairing it, or installing a new one and how to get the best price available.
Call now at (781) 933-6387 or fill out our quick online form and one of our technicians will get in touch with you as soon as possible.
