Boilers are one of the most commonly misunderstood pieces of home heating equipment. As a leading provider of boiler repair in Park City, we often get questions and concerns related to the safety of the machinery, especially in relation to high or low pressure issues.
The truth is that any residential boiler equipment is designed with family usage in mind. Most of the hydronic boilers used in this capacity run at anywhere from 12 psi (for a boiler that isn’t on) to 30 psi. (The measurement psi is used to determine pressure, and stands for pounds per square inch.) By definition, a high pressure boiler is one that operates above 15 psi, while a low pressure boiler is one that operates at 15 psi or lower.
Steam heating systems run with even lower pressure, typically at less than 1 psi in all. However, these types of boilers are less common (especially in newer homes), and operate using a different system.
Taking Care of Your Boiler’s Pressure
If your hydronic boiler shows a pressure of less than 12 psi, the system requires more water. Today’s boilers have automatic filling systems that are able to detect when the water gets low, so continued problems might indicate that it’s time to call your Park City boiler repair provider.
Similarly, pressure that is over 30 psi is most likely to indicate a problem of too much pressure, even for a high pressure performance boiler. In this instance, the relief valve should automatically open to correct the problem.
If you have any concerns about the pressure in your boiler, call a repair company right away. Although systems are designed with failsafes in place, it is best to have a professional on site to make any assessments about the safety of your system. Regular boiler maintenance can also have a big impact in the efficacy of your machinery.
What Type of Boiler is Right for Me?
Boilers are one of the oldest types of modern heating, drawing from steam technology to generate energy. Water inside the boiler is heated and pressurized, causing the particles to transform into steam, which then moves through the radiators, convector, or other heating system.
Boilers can work in several different ways—they are powered either by oil or gas, and can operate either as a steam or water-based system. Most of the time, the decision of which type of boiler to use is dependent on the age and size of the home. For example, homes with several stories may need a higher pressure system to force the heat to the top floors.
If you’re considering a boiler for the first time, or if you’re upgrading an existing system, you’ll be faced with many different types and varieties. Having a Park City boiler repair and installation expert come to your home and make an assessment is the best choice.
