About Hot Water Boilers

A hot water boiler is a heating system used in homes. The boiler tank uses the water to circulate heat throughout the home through vents or radiators. Taking care of the boiler system can be quite simple. By reviewing this simple guide, you will have the pertinent information to service your boiler.

Types of Systems

There are four types of boiler systems. The first type is called the closed system, which uses all of the water that is evaporated after heating. The evaporated water is cooled then reused for heating. In contrast, the second system is the open system, which does not use evaporated water. The next is a two-pipe system, where one pipe moves the hot water to the area that needs to be heated; the other pipe brings back the cool water to the boiler through an electric pump. The last system is a gravity system. Water is transported after heating through gravity, however not through circulators. Older water heaters use the gravity system.

Component Process

The fuel is supplied by the boiler and a thermostat controls the temperature of the water. The water is mixed in a tank with pressure, which causes the fuel to burn. The fuel is sent through pipes where the water is stored in the tank. Then the fire heats the water and the water is carried through the tubes when pumped through by a circulator.

Maintenance

If a hot water boiler is not properly maintained, a fire can occur. The unit should be drained, by turning of the unit and opening the drain valve. Over time, water creates mineral buildup, which can clog the pipes and the unit as well. After the unit is cleaned, refer to the manual for proper pressure readings. Typically, most manufacturers set their pressure settings to be average around twelve to fifteen pounds of pressure. The pressure gauge is the most important part of your unit. The pressure gauge should be checked periodically to ensure your unit is working properly.