Get matched with top boiler installation pros in Longmeadow, MA

Generally, an oil furnace is considered safer than a gas furnace for several reasons. While both types of furnaces can produce carbon monoxide, a leak in an oil furnace is easier to detect due to the smell. Oil furnaces also don't connect to a gas pipeline, which reduces the chance of a fuel leak. Most importantly, heating oil is not combustible, whereas natural gas is highly flammable. This means there is a much lower risk of combustion or explosion with an oil furnace. However, an oil furnace can still pose a fire hazard if it tips over.

Yes. Boilers need water to run without overheating, also known as dry firing. If you run it without a sufficient volume of water, either because of a burst pipe or a leak, you run the risk of damaging your machine or jeopardizing the safety of your home as a whole. When in doubt, shut off your boiler and repair any plumbing issues before turning it back on. Alternatively, consider installing a low-water cutoff (LWCO) before any issues arise. This gadget will protect your boiler by monitoring water levels and automatically shutting it off if it gets too low. 

The best way to compare HVAC quotes is getting a few detailed quotes from local companies with good reputations. Then, go over the quotes line by line. Protect yourself by insisting on in-person estimates that include equipment manufacturer names, model numbers, SEER ratings, amounts and numbers of materials, details of warranties on equipment and labor, and other specifics. 

Knowing the exact equipment and materials is the only way that you can fairly compare quotes. Quotes that are much lower than others can be a sign that the company isn’t providing the best quality service or materials.

The cost-efficiency of baseboard heaters depends on the type and how you use them. Generally, standard electric baseboard heaters can be expensive to run because they use electric resistance heating, which is less energy-efficient than systems like forced-air or heat pumps. However, hydronic and gas versions are typically much cheaper to operate. Hydronic models are more energy-efficient because they heat a liquid that retains warmth longer, preventing the thermostat from turning on and off as often. The overall running cost is also influenced by local electricity rates, your home's insulation, and your usage habits. To increase efficiency, you can use baseboard heaters for zoning, meaning you only heat the specific rooms you are using.