Boiler Systems, Furnaces and the Environment

One of the major concerns in today’s world is climate change and the environment we leave to our children. Doing something about climate change is a tremendous task that everyone needs to take seriously and help to tackle, even the smallest actions can make a difference.

Living in a colder climate like Alberta's means our homes must be heated. Typically, this task is handled by a gas furnace or boiler system. There are other alternatives, but by far the best value and the most typical are natural gas boilers and furnaces.

Without breaking the family budget, what can be done to ensure that your heating system handles its job while also being efficient and environmentally friendly?

As discussed in previous articles "Furnace Maintenance" or "Boiler Safety and Boiler Inspections". If you have not done any maintenance on your boiler heating system or furnace this year, it is time to call Alpha Plumbing. A properly maintained system is the first step.

You are not only throwing money out the door, but also potentially affecting the environment inside and outside your home if you haven’t completed proper boiler maintenance.

Is it time to replace your heating system? Have a properly trained and certified plumbing technician review the condition and age of your boiler or furnace. Even high efficiency boilers and furnaces have a life span.

When replacing either type of heating system, it is very important to choose "Energy Star" products recommended by your plumber to achieve the best efficiency. In addition to saving on the monthly heating bill, Energy Star heating is more environmentally friendly. In a gas boiler system, 10% less energy is used. Both boiler and furnace heaters which have Energy Star ratings will be highly efficient.

Talk with your professional plumber, as there may be a government rebate program to help with the cost.

When maintaining or replacing your heating systems, have the professional check the venting system. Are your pipes leaking? Are your burners and distribution systems fully functional? Incorrectly operating pipes and vents will waste money and not allow the boiler or furnace to operate at top efficiency. Make sure there are seals around all main ducts and that your furnace or boiler has been cleaned.

In older homes, chimneys are used to vent heating systems. Like older boilers and furnaces, these will also deteriorate over time and it is important to make sure you have no leaks. Chimneys need cleaning and inspection, and the chimney liner may need replacing.

In addition to regular checkups and maintenance, there are some easy no-cost ways to make sure you are saving money and doing your part for the environment.

• Install a programmable thermostat. Having the system automatically adjust your home temperature means you don't have to think about adjusting the temperature when more or less heating is required. The temperature in the home overnight can be lower than the day time.
• Put on a sweater or wrap up with a blanket! No cost there.
• Be mindful of heat leaks in your home, close blinds, check door seals and talk to your local plumber about places that may be prone to letting in cold air.

Keeping your boiler system or your gas furnace system in top working condition saves you money and is better for the environment. Have a professional heating company, like the Alpha Plumbing team, work with you to do your part for the environment.

For boiler installation, boiler replacement or boiler repair in the Calgary area call us today to schedule an inspection: (403)-470-5785.