A Glimpse at Radiator Heating Systems
Boiler and radiator systems may not be the most
popular heating mechanism for your home these days but they have
been used quite successfully for over 100 years. Radiator systems
installed more than half a century ago are still going strong in
many buildings. Boiler and radiator systems provide an effective,
safe reliable source of heat. Some people actually prefer radiators
over forced air or other furnace systems because the heat that
emanates from the radiator is not drying; plus, it is relatively
quiet and requires little maintenance.
Boilers and radiator systems use steam heating which is quite
different than other heating systems and their operations. You have
oil or gas propelled burner which heats water and turns it into
steam. The steam passes through a series of pipes, either aluminum
or cast iron, which eventually escapes through a radiator. At this
stage, a room is warmed from the heat emanating from the steam. When
the steam is cooled, it condenses and returns to the boiler to
become reheated once again. It's quite an efficient process.
A boiler and radiator system can heat a room faster than
conventional heating systems. Plus, many people like the fact that
you can heat rooms separately because there is a separate radiator
in the rooms, rather than forced air or other furnace systems which
use ductwork and blows warm air into all vented rooms at the same
time, thus wasting energy. Overall, radiators are less expensive and
easy to install.
You can choose between cast iron and aluminum pipes for your
radiator. Cast iron is a heavy metal but built to last. Because of
their weight, they cannot be mounted on the wall, unlike aluminum
versions. The aluminum radiator is relatively new in comparison to
cast iron options. It is light weight, can be mounted on a wall or
other places where cast iron cannot be installed. The only drawback
to radiators is that they are not known for their attractiveness. It
is important that they remain uncovered so that they can work
efficiently.
Boiler and radiator systems do require a little maintenance but
nothing like other heating systems. You should always check the
water level gauges, pressure valves and safety valves to ensure they
work properly. Because boilers can produce steam that can cause
blistering burns on your skin, it is advised that you have a
professional technician inspect your boiler and radiator heating
system.
While refurbished cast iron radiators from the late 1800s and early
1900s can work quite well for you, you should consider aluminum or
new cast iron options for your boiler and radiator system. With the
new technology, the radiators manufactured now are even more
efficient and safer than ever before. You can even purchase new
radiators that look like replicas of old antique ones if you are
trying to fit this heating element within a particular design
scheme!
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
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