Get matched with top boiler installation pros in Pilot Mountain, NC

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. 

A common HVAC rule is that for every 500 to 600 square feet of living space, you need 1 ton of heating or cooling capacity. Now that you know this common rule, you also need to know that it isn’t very accurate, and a dedicated pro wouldn’t use it for your home. If you talk to a pro who won’t or can’t perform a proper Manual J calculation, consider hiring someone more thorough.

Some high-quality steam boilers come with 10-year warranties, but a well-installed, properly maintained model can last at least 20 to 25 years. Learning how to clean a boiler, getting an annual professional service, and keeping up with maintenance and repairs on your heating system are all important for getting the most out of your model. 

The best way to save money on home heating oil is to get large deliveries in the summer months when the prices are lowest. However, this method will only work if you have a separate storage tank or an unusually large primary tank. You can sometimes save money by opting into a delivery contract, as some companies offer set prices that they believe will sit at the average cost over the contract term. If the price of oil rises, you could enjoy some savings, but keep in mind that you might also pay a bit more if the price decreases.