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How to Replace a Gravity Boiler With a New Boiler

Homeowners concerned about costs often look to improve the efficiency of the home heating system. Newer, forced circulation boilers are more efficient than gravity boilers, take up less space, and are easier to service. Some of the newest boilers can achieve up to 97 percent efficiency! Many homeowners find that new boilers, while expensive to install, pay for themselves in fuel savings of potentially as much as half. If you are thinking about replacing your gravity boiler with a new boiler, there are a few factors to consider when making your decision.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider if replacing your gravity boiler is the right decision for your circumstances. Replacing old coal burning boilers, which were adapted for oil or natural gas, can be extremely cost-effective. However, newer boilers with efficiencies above 75 percent may not be immediately cost-effective to replace. If your heater has a low efficiency, is oversized for your home, or is in need of significant repairs, a replacement may be your best option.

    • 2

      Decide what you need from your new boiler. If you live in a cold climate, purchasing the most efficient model available is usually the best option. However, the most efficient model is usually also the most expensive. If you live in a cold climate, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a model with 80 or 85 percent efficiency. Sealed combustion boilers, which do not draw from or vent to the air inside your home, are more efficient and safer than other styles. They eliminate the risk of toxic gases entering your home from the boiler combustion. Choosing what size and type of boiler best suits your situation is an important step in replacing a gravity boiler.

    • 3

      Obtain quotes for a new boiler installation. The last step in intelligently replacing your old gravity-fed boiler to a new more efficient boiler is to gather several quotes from reputable installers and choose which one best fits your circumstances. Once your new boiler is installed, you can immediately begin to notice the significant savings in your fuel costs.