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Boiler Installation FAQs
The difference between a boiler and a furnace lies in how they heat and distribute air to warm your home. A boiler heats water or produces steam to generate heat, which circulates through radiators, baseboard heaters, and underfloor heating systems. Furnaces heat air and circulate it via ductwork.
While both a water heater and a boiler heat water, they have distinctly different operations and functions. A boiler heats your home by pushing water or steam through the system. In comparison, a water heater only heats potable water for faucets, showers, and appliances and doesn’t heat your home. Certain boilers, such as combi-boilers, can perform both functions.
In many places, plumbers can install boilers. Licensed HVAC technicians usually install boilers because this is a specialized task with specific regulations. If you’re installing or replacing a gas boiler, you may need a gas plumber to work on the fuel supply lines.
Boilers can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, at which point they require replacement. If your boiler is frequently breaking down or losing performance, consider replacing it. Faulty boilers can lose efficiency and drive up your utility bills. As they degrade, they become less reliable. Some breakdowns, such as broken seals or valves, may result in extensive water damage or other hazards.
Adding a second zone to an existing boiler system costs $1,700 to $2,800 plus $350 to $500 per added zone. This involves extra wiring and hookups, cutting open walls, running electrical, and soldering copper.
