Steam Heating

What is Steam Heating?

A steam heating system is pretty much what it sounds like. This system is made up of a water boiler, a burner, pipes, a radiator, and so on. How does it work? It’s pretty simple. The boiler heats up the water, converting it into steam. That steam is then released throughout the pipes and the radiators/convectors in each room, allowing the heat from the steam to warm each room. It’s a relatively efficient, albeit older, method of heating homes. You’ll typically find this style of heating system in houses that were built in the 1950s. While it can seem tempting to replace the whole thing, there are a few benefits to this particular type of heater.

Benefits of a Steam Heating System

If your home has an existing steam heating system, you are in for a real treat. This particular type of heater has many advantages that just can’t be matched by any other heating system.

• Clean Heat: One of the biggest benefits of a steam heating system is the fact that it is clean heat. With it, there are no dust particles or allergens that could affect someone. Additionally, there is no new air entering the space reducing the chance of airborne allergens.
• Comfort: There is a more consistent, comfortable feel to steam heat. Rather than utilizing a forced-air system with ducts and filters, heat is radiated through a system that is already in place.
• Zoning: Steam heaters offer a certain degree of user-friendly operation. You have the opportunity to program and zone when and where heat will go in each room, something you really can’t do with a forced-air system.
• Noise: There is some debate as to whether steam heaters are too loud for homes. Generally speaking, there will be some noise if you utilize this heater, but it’s not as bad as you may think.

While there are many advantages, there are a few disadvantages to a steam heating system. The most prominent issue is leaks. Since you are working with water and steam, there can be situations when pipes become damaged, burst, or just start leaking. Anything like that is more likely to happen in an older home with older piping. When you need steam heating system repairs, rely on Wicked Plumbing. We have expert knowledge on these types of heaters and can make sure your home is safe and maintained.