Boiler Service
Boiler Service in Oak Park
Providing Boiler Repair and Replacement Services in Oak Park Since 2013
With a functioning boiler, it’s easy staying warm in Illinois’s winter months. But when your boiler acts up, a few blankets and a pair of slippers might not be enough to ward off the cold. With over 11 years of experience maintaining hydronic heating systems, Energy Matters has established itself as a trusted HVAC company in the Oak Park area. In that time, we’ve developed a true understanding of boiler systems and how to properly maintain, replace, and repair them.
How Do Boilers Work?
It can help by thinking of boilers as a particular kind of water heater. Unlike furnaces, which push warmth through the air, boilers distribute it via heated water pipes. Radiators are then used to dissipate the excess heat throughout your home. The cooler water is then returned to your boiler for reuse. The cycle continues until your home's ambient temperature matches the number on the thermostat.
The above process can vary slightly depending on the type of boiler involved. Steam boilers, much rarer in Oak Park than they used to be, heat the liquid past the point of boiling. Other boilers, meanwhile, rely on regular oil deliveries to stay in tip-top shape. Regardless of if your system is powered by oil, steam, natural gas, or electricity, our heating service personnel are here to ensure it functions reliably and efficiently.
Boiler FAQs
How Often Does My Boiler Need Service?
We recommend having your boiler serviced on a yearly basis. This will ensure it operates at maximum efficiency through the cold times and into milder weather. By getting it regularly serviced, you can help yourself to avoid future boiler repairs. You can learn more about the benefits of HVAC maintenance in Oak Park and River Forest by reaching out to us by phone or through our website.
Can My Boiler Heat My Water, Too?
Though not possible in the past, newer “combi” boilers allow you to use the water in your boiler for bathing and cooking as well. This eliminates the need for a separate water heater, saving you space and boosting home efficiency.
What Do I Do if My Boiler Starts Leaking?
If your boiler is leaking, don’t panic. You can limit the damage by taking the following steps:
- Turn off the boiler’s power and shut the main water valve to prevent further damage
- Mop or lay down towels to soak up the water
- Try to find the source of the leak. Typically, it comes from the boiler tank, discharge tube, or drain valve
- Call Energy Matters to schedule a boiler technician for repair
Will a New Boiler be Quieter?
This depends on numerous factors. Very old boilers are typically very loud. While those made in the last 15 to 20 years, tend to be quieter than even the newest ones. This is because internal components in new systems, used to enhance efficiency, produce low levels of noise during use. Even if this additional sound is annoying, your new system’s lower operation cost will more than make up for it.
Can I Use My Boiler to Cool my Home as Well?
While radiators can be used to cool homes, boilers cannot provide the cold water necessary to do so. Using a water chiller to produce a cooling effect can lead to humidity, corrosion, and condensation issues. For people with boilers looking for a way to beat Oak Park’s summer heat, ductless AC is often the best option.
What Brands of Boiler Does Energy Matters Service?
Our radiant heating experts service all brands of residential boilers. These brands include Lennox, Bosch, Weil-McLain, Lochinvar, Hydro-Therm, Crown, Navien, AO Smith, Buderus, Peerless, Westinghouse, and Triangle Tube.