Heating

Common boiler problems include no heat, low or high pressure, cold radiators, banging pipes, kettling, leaks, short cycling, frozen condensate lines and ignition failures. Here is what causes each and what you can safely check.

This boiler replacement guide covers when to replace, condensing, combi, steam and oil boiler options, efficiency, how steam and hot-water boilers are sized, venting, piping, controls and what a good installation includes.

A cracked heat exchanger can let combustion gases, including carbon monoxide, into your home. Learn the warning signs, causes, how technicians diagnose it, why repair is rarely an option and what to do next.

Furnace blower motor replacement fixes a furnace that runs but moves little or no air. Learn the warning signs, why the capacitor may be the real problem, PSC vs ECM motors and when to replace the furnace instead.

Oil furnace problems usually trace back to fuel, filter, nozzle, ignition or sensors. Learn the 8 most common faults, why you should never keep pressing reset, and the safety basics for oil heat.

How long does a furnace last? Most gas furnaces last about 15 to 20 years. See lifespans by furnace type, what shortens them, how to extend furnace life and when replacement makes sense.

The signs your furnace is going out include age past 15 years, rising bills, frequent repairs, uneven heat, short cycling, strange noises, yellow flames and CO alarms. Here is what each sign means and what to do.

Furnace repair or replace? Use age, repair cost, safety and efficiency to decide. Learn the $5,000 and 50% rules, which repairs are worth it, when a furnace is unsafe and what to replace it with.

Furnace and boiler replacement in Massachusetts: when to replace, what AFUE means, gas, oil, combi and steam options, sizing, cost factors, heat pump alternatives and what a safe installation includes.