Some homeowners live on the edge. They don’t want to use a furnace or a heat pump, and they’ve got a pretty good idea of what they want. Home comfort should be decided on a case-by-case basis, and you should have the final say on what kind of system you want in your home. A boiler is different from a furnace or other forced-air heating system in a lot of ways, but all of those ways might be perfect for your lifestyle.
In fact, boilers might seem like an alternative heating system now, but there was a time when boilers were one of the most technologically advanced systems on the planet. The history of the modern boiler is an interesting one, and it’s going to give you insight into why these systems are still useful, and why they will continue to be. Then, if you’re interested in a boiler installation in Murfreesboro, TN, you can call us to get started.
Boilers Are Ancient Solutions
Back in ancient times, not everyone could afford comfortable, whole-house heating. While most people used hearths and open fires to stay warm, the wealthy people of ancient Rome would actually have steam boilers keep their houses warm and comfortable.
These boilers heated water directly from the aqueducts as it entered their home. Then, as the water would begin to boil, the steam would rise up in a small gap between the inner and exterior walls, meaning the home was insulated and warmed by steam. This is one of the earliest places in human history where we see the invention of a boiler as a heating system.
How a Modern Boiler Works
Now, things are a bit different. Since most of our homes are made of wood, steam through the walls would actually deteriorate the house and cause a lot of problems. Modern boilers use pipes to move water throughout your home and heat it in strategic locations.
Water is incredibly good at retaining heat. When you boil a pot of water, it takes a long time to finally cool down, so it makes sense that it produces so much warmth. That hot water is sent through the floorboards or radiators of your home to emanate heat that you can feel.
Boilers can be fueled by natural gas as well as electricity. The choice is entirely dependent on how a customer feels and what their preferred method of energy consumption is.
Why You Might Want a Boiler
Boilers are exceptionally good at heating a home. They’re some of the most energy-efficient units on the market, since water retains heat much better than air does. Boilers are also extremely durable, lasting 15–20 years with routine maintenance and essential repairs.
The real drawing point of a boiler is the radiant heat. Homeowners who switch from forced-air heating to boilers tend to say it feels more comfortable because of how the heat radiates through objects. The heat from a boiler feels similar to the heat from the sun that radiates through your body, instead of just the air.
For your next boiler installation, contact Busy Bee Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning Inc. Enjoy our 100% more than satisfied promise!