Boilers

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Boilers heat water, providing either hot water or steam for heating. Steam is distributed via pipes to steam radiators. Hot water can be distributed via baseboard radiators, radiant floor systems or can heat the air via a coil. Steam boilers operate at a higher temperature than water boilers, and are inherently less efficient, but high efficiency boilers of both types are currently available.

If your boiler is old, worn out, inefficient, or significantly oversized, the simplest solution is to replace it with a modern high efficiency model. Although older boilers had efficiencies in the range of 56%–70%, modern conventional heating systems can achieve efficiencies as high as 97%, converting nearly all the fuel to useful heat for your home. Focus recommends buying a boiler with an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or greater. The higher the AFUE of a boiler, the more efficient it is. Also look for a boiler that modulates the heat output and with an outdoor temperature reset to maximize comfort and efficiency. Energy efficiency upgrades and a new high efficiency heating system can often cut your fuel bills and your furnace's pollution output in half.

Proper installation is important. Your new boiler must be installed properly to ensure that it operates safely and efficiently. An improperly installed boiler can result in higher energy costs and a less comfortable home.

Flue Closure
If you have installed a high efficiency furnace or boiler and there is no other equipment vented through your chimney, the interior flue should be sealed off to reduce heat loss through the opening in the roof. By closing the flue, you will prevent the escape of warm air from your house—increasing your comfort, and saving energy and money.