How Residential Steam Boilers Work

Most modern homes are built with a standard furnace. However, older homes often use steam boilers. Steam boilers use a simple operational system to heat residences.

Parts

A steam boiler has several basic parts. A water heating tank generates steam when heated which passes through pipes to the radiator. The radiator diffuses the heat into the rooms in the home. The steam boiler also requires an exhaust vent.

Efficiency

Steam boilers are more efficient than hot water boilers, as steam generates hotter air into the system. Three-fourths as much water is needed to generate heat and the steam enters the radiator at a lower pressure, using less electricity.

Safety

Steam boilers use safety features such as a shut-off switch that cuts the burner heat if the pressure exceeds about five to seven pounds per square inch. Another safety switch turns off the burner if the water level sinks too low in the tank.

References

• Old House Web: HVAC Steam Heating Systems
• High Performance HVAC: Common Problems with Steam Boilers