A boiler is a specialized appliance that heats water for your central heating system and is different from a water heater. A standard boiler is separate from your domestic hot water system.
However, installing a combination boiler in Suffolk County could be an option if you need an appliance that heats domestic water and works with your central heating.
Here’s what you need to know before your next boiler installation.
Key Takeaways – Central Heating Boiler vs. Water Heater
- A traditional boiler is an appliance that exclusively heats water for your central heating system.
- You still need a separate water heating system for domestic water.
- You could combine both with a modern combination boiler if your home meets some simple requirements.
Why Doesn’t a Boiler Work as a Water Heater?
Boilers don’t typically work as water heaters because they run in a closed-loop system. A boiler distributes water to a network of radiators to heat your home. Having a traditional boiler that also serves as a domestic water heater would significantly reduce efficiency, and there would be other concerns, like the water temperature and quality.
In short, traditional boilers aren’t designed or intended for domestic hot water.
Is it Possible to Install a Combination Boiler on Long Island?
You could potentially install a combination boiler (also called a combi-boiler) in your home on Long Island.
Many of Long Island’s homes use boilers and radiators for central heating. These systems are generally efficient and affordable to run, and also convenient, considering that most homes have access to gas lines.
A combination boiler uses a heat exchanger to instantaneously heat water for use in heating or for showers, faucets, and other appliances. It can connect to the closed-loop central heating system as well as the home’s water plumbing. It doesn’t require a tank, so you can save space compared to a traditional hot water cylinder.
While combination boilers are highly efficient, they aren’t suited to every home. They are generally only suitable for smaller homes with one bathroom. Combination models start to struggle when there are simultaneous hot water demands, such as having two showers running at the same time. It could become cost-prohibitive to install a combination boiler if you have significant hot water demands in your home.
Do I Need a Plumber or an HVAC Contractor to Install a Boiler?
You need a licensed HVAC contractor to install a boiler system. When considering traditional or combination boilers, these devices are specialist heating appliances and require a skillset that falls outside of a plumber’s training. HVAC technicians have plumbing knowledge as well as specialist training and certifications in gas lines, venting, and heating system design.
How Do I Know What Type of Boiler to Install in My Home?
If you’re in Suffolk County, you can talk to the team at Soundview HVAC. We have more than two decades of experience providing local families with cost-efficient boiler installation, repair, and maintenance services.
We will consider a few factors when determining the best type of boiler installation for your home:
- The size of your home.
- The size of the radiator network.
- Your heating demands.
- Your hot water demands (if you are considering a combination boiler).
- Your budget.
Most families are best served by a traditional boiler system, but you might be able to install a combination boiler if your home is smaller than 1,800 sq. ft. and has only a single bathroom.
We provide free estimates and detailed consultations. We take pride in offering efficient solutions that provide years of home comfort. Start with a home comfort consultation today and get your new boiler installed before winter.
