BOOK SERVICEWhen does your boiler need to be replaced? How often should it be serviced? You can count on McMahon Plumbing & Heating for prompt and professional boiler installation and service, especially during the unpredictable winters here in the Boston area. A new high-efficiency condensing boiler can reduce your heating costs by up to 15-20% compared to an older non-condensing unit.
BOOK SERVICE CALL US AT (617) 364-2200
Forced Hot Water Boiler Basics
A forced hot water boiler, also called a hydronic heating system, is very common in the Greater Boston area. The boiler is fueled by natural gas. It heats water, which is then distributed by pipes throughout the house, where radiators disperse heat from the hot water. When the water cools down, it is returned to the boiler to be reheated and recirculated. Boilers are long-lasting and may even last for decades as long as they are properly maintained. Annual heating system tune-ups will help ensure your boiler performs at maximum efficiency, and they’ll also extend its lifespan.
Do You Need a Boiler Installation or Upgrade?
Boilers give us signs when they need a replacement. Does one or more of these signs sound familiar?
- Some rooms in your home are much warmer or much colder than others.
- Your boiler is more than 12 years old. Efficiency drops significantly after that point, and newer condensing boilers can significantly cut costs.
- You are using more fuel yearly. This is a sign that your boiler is less efficient than it was when you bought it.
- You deal with recurring breakdowns and repairs throughout the winter.
- You notice clunking sounds or suspicious smells coming from your boiler.
If so, contact McMahon to learn what your options are.
What happens during a boiler installation?
We remove the old boiler, flush your heating system, mount the new boiler, and connect it to the gas and water lines and to electrical power.
To prepare for a boiler replacement, ensure the area around your old boiler is clear and keep the boiler at normal operating temperature. If it’s extra cold outside, prepare for the brief interruption in heating service by wearing warm clothing and/or using electric space heaters.
There may be times during the installation process when your water will be turned off, but it won’t be turned off during the entire installation.
Usually the installation will take most of a day. We will let you know about your specific situation when we schedule the boiler installation.
Switching from a Boiler to a Heat Pump
Many homeowners are switching from a boiler to a heat pump to reduce energy use and add air conditioning. You can also install a heat pump and leave your existing boiler in place as a supplementary heat source.