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| | | Whether it's sending steam to radiators or hot water through a baseboard or radiant floor heating system, a boiler is usually run by gas or fuel oil. It's often possible to replace an old boiler or to a more energy efficient one without changing the entire home heating system. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Replacing an existing boiler runs about $2,500 -$4,000 for a mid-efficiency system and $5,000 -$9,000 or more for a high-efficiency version.
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| What should be included: | - Installing a replacement boiler can take one to three days or possibly up to a week or more, and complications could leave you without heat overnight. Estimates should include removing and disposing of the old unit.
- If the boiler is more than twenty years old, chances are good it's efficiency in converting energy into heat is about 55-65 percent; high-efficiency boilers are 85-90 percent or more.
- A heating system with too large of a capacity for your home will not run properly, producing an uncomfortable living environment. A contractor should calculate the actual need.
- Many municipalities require a permit for replacing a heating system; check with your local planning department.
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| Additional costs: | - Some local governments require a fire inspection (about $25 -$75) for a replacement heating system.
- When replacing an old boiler with a more efficient model, it can be necessary to install a chimney liner for about $300 -$700 for a gas model and $700 -$1,800 for a fuel oil appliance. If this is needed, check that it's included in all price quotes.
- Removing an old fuel-oil tank from the basement starts around $300 -$1,500 and can cost more depending on how difficult the project is; taking out an abandoned underground oil tank starts around $1,500 -$3,000 and goes up depending on the complexity. If removal is needed, ask if it's included in all estimates.
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| Discounts: | - The power company may offer discount packages with local dealers of energy-efficient heating systems. And if you need help with financing, your power company may provide loans for energy-efficient home improvements.
- You might not have to buy a new boiler if you get your system an annual tune-up ($80 -$250), or you might be able to purchase a smaller (and less expensive) model if you take energy-saving steps such as finding and sealing any air leaks, adding insulation or upgrading/replacing inefficient doors and windows. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy offers detailed guidelines.
- Until Dec. 31, 2007, consumers buying a boiler with an efficiency rating of at least 95 percent can claim a $150 -$200 income tax credit from the federal government. The Alliance to Save Energy lists the criteria for the tax credit, which also covers other improvements such as air conditioning, water heaters, windows and doors.
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| Shopping for a boiler: | |
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Article updated November 2007 |
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