Realty.com » Resources and Services

Login • Register

Resources and Services

Consumer Guides

Understanding Boiler Radiator Systems

Boilers and radiators are not often installed in new homes, but many older residences feature this type of heating system, and steam or hot-water heating is still the system of choice for many apartments and multi-family dwellings.

Steam and hot-water heating systems have several advantages over other systems. They are very efficient, and since they have few moving parts, they are reliable and durable, lasting for many years. They are quiet and provide even, consistent heat that is clean and dust-free.

In a steam heating system, a boiler heats water by means of a gas or oil-fired burner and turns it into steam. The steam travels through pipes to radiators or convectors, which give off heat and warm the room. As the steam cools, it condenses back into water, and returns to the boiler to be heated again. Hot water heating systems operate on the same principle, using hot water instead of steam to heat the radiators.

While one of the advantages of boiler and radiator systems is their long life and low maintenance, they should still be serviced annually to ensure trouble-free operation. You can easily learn to check the safety valve and the pressure and water level gauges, but for safety reasons, heating system maintenance should be done by qualified service professional

Routine annual service should include checking the controls and gauges and inspecting and adjusting the burner. In addition, the chimney and flues should be inspected for blockages or leaks. If it is a steam heating system, the air valves on the radiators should be checked and adjusted to regulate the heat.

Modern boiler systems are significantly more efficient than older systems. Even if your present boiler is still giving trouble-free service, the fuel savings of a new unit could outweigh the cost of a replacement in a few years.

More Popular Entries

Additions & Remodels

Soundproofing Techniques
Small Kitchen Projects Can Make a Big Difference
Easy Financing Options for Remodeling

Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors

Home Inspections
The Final Walk Through
Townhouses

Appliances

Installing Appliances
Selecting Major Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage

Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers

Conventionally Framed Home Builder
Checklist: Preventing Builder Fraud
Workout Room

Carpentry & Cabinets

Tip: Dealing with Dryrot
Cabinet Options
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops

Cleaning Services

The Importance of Air Duct and Vent Cleaning
Prevent Wear with Fabric Protection
Ways to Clean Your Carpet

Concrete, Brick & Stone

Installing Concrete
Tip: Repair Concrete Steps
Wunderbar Rebar!

Consumer Guides

Time for a New Roof?
Preparing a House for Sale
Upgrading Your Electrical System

Design Ideas

Drywall Textures and Styles
Prefinished vs. Unfinished Wood Flooring
Asphalt Shingles: The Wood and Tile Alternative

Electrical, Telephone & Data

Whole House Fans
Tip: Repair Home Entertainment Equipment
Convenient Electrical Fixtures

Expert Advice

Install a Front Door
Insulating a Crawl Space
Air Quality

Flooring

Hardwood Inlay
Cleaning Hardwood Floor Inlay
Steam Cleaning Grout

Handyman Services

Avoiding Home Repair Rip-offs
Some Assembly Required
The Benefits of Weatherstripping

Heating & Cooling

Tip: Types of Geo Thermal Heating Systems
Heat Pumps
Environmentally Friendly Solar Heat

Home Construction

More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Tip: Panelized Homes
Do Homework Before Building a New Home

Landscape, Decks & Fences

Asphalt Paving
The Attention Your Landscape Needs
Preparing Your Yard for Winter

Moving & Storage

Some Assembly Required
Preparing a House for Sale
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It

Other Services

Tip: Fire Protection or Prevention
Simple Ways to Keep Your Children Safe
Wet Basements

Painting & Staining

Tip: Roller Marks - Interior Paint
The Right Tools for Interior Painting
The Basics of Interior Painting

Plumbing

Safe Drinking Water
The Importance of Clean Water
Find a Water Treatment Service

Quick Tips

Tip: Cleaning Fireplace Burns
Tip: Repair or Maintain Sprinkler Systems
Checklist: Basic Lawn & Landscape Care

Roofing, Siding & Gutters

Ventilation is Key to How Long Your Roof Will Last
Tip: Roof Leaks
How to Buy Roofing

SP Feature Article

The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services

Walls & Ceilings

Techniques for Wall Covering Removal
Create a Turn-of-the-Century Look With Metal Ceilings
Acoustic Ceiling Cleaning

Windows & Doors

Basic Door Lock Information
Installing the Correct Blinds or Shades
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades

copyright 2008 Realty.com