Boiler Specialists

Since half of your home's energy goes to heating and cooling, it's important to address boiler issues quickly. If your boiler is under performing give us a call. Our certified technicians are ready to fix your boiler system today.

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Common Boiler Issues

Quix Plumbing Boiler System

Check Boiler For

  • Low water levels
  • Broken thermostat
  • Leaking boiler pipes
  • Malfunctioning pilot light
  • Leaks and Noises
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FAQ  For Boilers

What is a boiler heating system?

Two Types of Heating Systems

A boiler system heats the water inside a tank that supplies either hot water or steam, which flows through pipes and radiators to produce warmth. Most homes use hot water heating systems however some older homes and larger homes may use steam heating systems. If properly maintained, both heating systems are excellent for keeping your home or business warm during the cold winter months. 

Boilers are fueled by natural gas, heating oil, propane, electricity or a biodiesel-oil blend. 
What do boiler heating systems do?

Steam vs Hot Water

Steam boiler systems heat water to create steam, which is pumped throughout the house's radiators, whereas hot water boiler systems heat water and pumps it through radiators or baseboards.


In most cases, hot water boiler systems also heat water used for other purposes, such as bathing and cooking, which eliminates the need for a separate hot water tank. 

How often do boilers need to be replaced?

Should I repair or replace my boiler?

Boilers typically last 15 to 30 years.

  • Old boilers can be replaced by smaller units which reduces the cost.
  • Retrofitting a house to handle a high-efficiency boiler may cost extra.
  • Repair and installation of high-efficiency boilers may be more expensive because they have more complicated technology.
High efficiency boilers vs standard boilers - What are Energy Ratings?

High-efficiency vs Standard efficiency

Boilers heat water which is then conducted through radiators, radiant floor systems or a coil. Standard boilers tend to lose some of the energy used to heat the boiler during the conduction process. High-efficiency boilers on the other hand, are designed to trap the escaping heat and direct it back into the system.


The FTC requires that new boilers display their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) so consumers can compare them.

Here are the ratings:

  • Old, Low-Efficiency Boilers have 56% - 70% AFUE
  • New, Minimum Efficiency Standard Boilers have 78% AFUE
  • New, Mid-Efficiency Boilers have 80 - 83% AFUE
  • New, High-Efficiency boilers have a 90 - 98% AFUE.

For more information visit the US Dept. of Energy Website by clicking below.


How often does my boiler need service?

Boilers should be serviced annually by a heating professional to ensure efficient heating. 

Hot Water Boilers
• Test the pressure-relief valve and high-limit control.
• Inspect the pressure tank.
• Clean the heat exchanger.

Steam Boilers
• Drain water to remove sediments.
• Check the safety controls.
• Analyze the water and add chemicals if needed.
• Clean the heat exchanger.

Both Systems
• Check the vent connection pipe and chimney to see if they are deteriorating.
• Check the heat exchangers and pipes to see if they are leaking.
• Adjust the water and air temperature settings for optimum efficiency and comfort.

What about my radiators and baseboards?

Things to look for if you have radiators or baseboards.

Make sure radiators are not obstructed by furniture, carpeting, rugs, and drapes.
• Be sure to release trapped air from hot water radiators at the beginning of the heating season and possibly one more time during the heating season. If you are unsure how to perform this task, contact a heating professional.
• Place shims under the radiators so they are pitched slightly toward the pipe in a one-pipe system or toward the steam trap in a two-pipe system.
• Place heat-resistant reflectors between radiators and exterior walls to keep heat from escaping.

Quix Tips

Boost your boilers efficiency by reducing your homes heating load. Energy efficient homes require smaller, less expensive systems.  -> Ask us how

Weather Striping

Add weather stripping around doors and caulk around windows to keep heat from escaping.

Program Thermostat

 Install and set programable thermostats to automatically lower the temperature at night.

Spin Fans Clockwise

Set your ceiling fans to spin clockwise during the winter so rising heat blows down.