❓ Common Boiler Questions — Answered by the Pros at Project Heating and Plumbing

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When it comes to boilers, we get a lot of the same questions from homeowners, contractors, and business owners across Okotoks and the Foothills. Whether you're building, upgrading, or just trying to understand how your system works, here's a no-fluff guide to the most common boiler questions we hear — and the answers you actually need.

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🔥 1. What's the difference between a furnace and a boiler?

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Great question — we hear it a lot.

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• Furnace = uses forced air to heat your home.
• Boiler = heats water, which is then circulated through pipes and radiators or in-floor heating.
• ‍Boilers are quieter, more efficient in many cases, and offer better comfort through radiant heat. You won't feel that blast of dry air, just steady, even warmth.

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⚙️ 2. How long should a boiler last?

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A properly installed and maintained boiler can last 15–25 years, sometimes even longer.

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But here's the catch: most boiler problems start with poor installation, not age. That’s why we emphasize system design, proper piping, water quality, and annual service.

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💸 3. Is it worth upgrading to a high-efficiency boiler?

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Absolutely — especially in Alberta’s climate.

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Condensing boilers extract more heat from the combustion process and lower your fuel bills. You’ll save money long-term and reduce emissions. Many models also offer combi boiler options (heating + domestic hot water in one unit), which can simplify your system and save space.

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🧊 4. Why are my baseboards or in-floor heating zones not getting hot?

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Common reasons include:

• Air trapped in the system
• Faulty circulator pump
• Bad zone valve or thermostat
• Low pressure or boiler lockout
• If your heat is uneven, call us. We can diagnose and balance your system quickly — especially if the original install wasn’t done right.

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🧪 5. Do I need boiler maintenance every year?

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Yes — 100%. Annual service keeps your system efficient and safe.

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We check:

• Heat exchanger condition
• Venting and combustion
• Expansion tank pressure
• Pumps and safeties
• Water quality and pressure
• Skipping maintenance can void your warranty, cause efficiency loss, or worse — lead to carbon monoxide issues.

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🧰 6. Can a boiler heat my garage or shop too?

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Definitely. We design and install boiler-fed unit heaters and in-slab radiant systems for:

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• Garages
• Shops
• Barns
• Mechanical rooms
• Greenhouses

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If you already have a boiler for your house, we can often extend the system — no need for a second heat source.

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Have More Questions? Ask Us Directly.

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We're not just boiler installers — we’re your heating experts. If you're in Okotoks, the Foothills, Calgary, or nearby, give us a shout.

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📞 403-601-5387
💻 projectheating.ca

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Project Heating and Plumbing — Where honest advice and expert boiler installations go hand in hand.

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