How to Install a Boiler

When it comes to heating your home, a boiler is an energy efficient and environmentally friendly solution. Cold water is cycled through the boiler via heated pipes, where it is then distributed around your home as hot water or steam. It’s a cost-effective option. However, many homeowners do not have a boiler. They have an old, outdated water heating system instead. We’d like to help you change that. If you want to install a boiler, we recommend hiring a professional plumber to handle the job. Here’s how the installation process works!

Step 1 – Location

The location of your new boiler installation is as crucial as the model you choose. The boiler itself must be near enough to the water lines, gas lines, an electrical outlet, and the flue for ventilation, which we’ll discuss in-depth later. The ground or floor must be level, too.

Step 2 – Dressing the Boiler

Here, the word “dressing” means adding the appropriate pipes to the boiler system. For this task, you’ll need a wrench. First, add the circular pump directly to the boiler unit, then add the riser nipple. Doing so will allow you to add the correct pipes for water flow throughout your home. Attach the proper number of riser nipples, then attach each pipe that corresponds to the different zones throughout your home. You will need that wrench mentioned previously!

Step 3 – Feed and Return Pipes

With the proper pipes in place, you may move on to the feed and return pipes. Typically, the circulator pump will be situated on the return side of the boiler, with the flow-check along the feed side. You’ll tighten the nuts with the wrench, attach the boiler to a hot water tank, and use a copper pipe and correct fittings.

Step 4 – Flue Installation

We mentioned attaching a flue. Well, we’re at that point. A boiler must be properly vented. This ventilation is managed via the flue, or a smoke pipe. We recommend a sheet metal pipe to connect the actual boiler to the flue or smoke pipe. Drill a few holes and attach it with metal screws for a secure fit.

Step 5 – Attaching the Gas Line

Now, your new boiler cannot operate without a fuel source. If you’re using a gas boiler, like most homeowners will, then you’ll need to properly attach the gas line. If you’re using natural gas, you want to connect a black threaded pipe. Your boiler manual should have more detailed instructions for connecting the gas line appropriately.

Step 6 – Start Her Up!

Finally, with every connection made and situated properly, it’s time to start the boiler. Now’s the time to discover if your hard work will pay off. Open the water line, allowing the boiler to fill. You don’t need to worry about pressure, as the automatic feed valve has you covered. But for the next step, you will absolutely require a professional plumber. An expert will start the boiler properly and check the CO2 output – an important safety issue – while also making appropriate adjustments as necessary.

Schedule expert boiler installation with Rick’s Plumbing by calling 203-874-6629!

203-457-3201