Optimization: the key to efficient heating
Optimizing the operation of a boiler has the potential to increase the efficiency of the equipment, thereby potentially reducing energy costs and GHG emissions, as well as significantly prolonging the life of the boiler.
9 strategies to optimize operation
- 1
Regular cleaning of the tubes and heating surfaces :
to remove deposits that interfere with heat transfer.
- 2
Water level control :
an unstable level can affect the efficiency of the boiler and damage some components.
- 3
Optimization of combustion :
to minimize stack heat loss (addition of an O2 sensor or micromodulation system).
- 4
Leak check :
to prevent or stop steam loss at the boiler.
- 5
Water treatment :
to reduce minerals and limit purges, reducing energy and chemical consumption.
- 6
Addition of equipment :
(e.g., standard or condensing economizer) to improve boiler system efficiency.
- 7
Insulation of equipment, accessories and piping :
to minimize heat loss.
- 8
Pressure adjustment :
within the recommended range (often between 1 and 2 bar).
- 9
Burner power adjustment :
according to the actual needs of the building (with a two-stage or modulating burner, for example).
9 strategies to optimize boiler operation
8 à 12%
That’s what you can save on average in energy costs1 by regularly servicing your boiler.
Other examples of strategies that may result in cost savings are:
Installing an economizer
The economizer recovers waste heat from the exhaust gases to preheat the water, increasing system efficiency by 85% or more and reducing heat loss.
Installing a micromodulation system
This allows the burner to fine-tune its power to actual demand, reducing on/off cycles and generating energy savings of about 3%.2
Installing an O₂ sensor
The sensor continuously optimizes the air/gas ratio for more accurate combustion, reducing waste and providing savings that range from 0.5% to 2%.2, 3
Thermal insulation
This reduces heat loss from hot pipes and surfaces, improving system efficiency and providing approximately 0.5% in energy savings.4
