Customer Reviews

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Should I Convert Away From Steam Heating?

Karina's Story: A Decision She'll Never Forget

Meet Karina Mitchell, a homeowner from New Hampshire who cherished her historic Victorian home. Like many, she faced a heating crisis and was advised to replace her steam heating system with a modern alternative. Trusting the professionals, she made the switch—a decision she now deeply regrets.

“I miss it so much and my heart is broken. I grew up in this house and made the wrong choice.”
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The Decision to Convert

Karina's century-old steam heating system was removed and replaced with a hot water baseboard system. The contractors assured her of improved efficiency and better heating. However, they failed to account for the unique characteristics of her Victorian home:

  • High Ceilings: Requiring more heat to maintain comfortable temperatures.
  • Poor Insulation: Common in older homes, leading to significant heat loss.
  • Limited Wall Space: Making it difficult to install enough baseboard heaters.
“They just ripped it out as if it never existed and started fresh... Paid 30k!”

The Aftermath

The new heating system couldn't keep up with the demands of Karina's home. During cold snaps, temperatures inside struggled to reach 64°F. Both Karina and her tenants were left in the cold.

“The tenants' apartment couldn't even get to 64 in the last cold snap and I am running out of steam here!”
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Moreover, the contractors had used calculations suitable for new constructions, not for a historic home. They didn't account for the heat previously provided by the steam pipes themselves, which had warmed basements and crawl spaces.

The Hidden Value of Steam Heating

Steam heating systems are uniquely suited to older homes, especially those built before 1940. They offer:

  • Radiant Heat: Not just from radiators but also from the network of steam pipes throughout the house.
  • Even Heat Distribution: Providing consistent warmth in every room.
  • Durability: Steam systems are known for their longevity when properly maintained.

Removing a steam system isn't just swapping out equipment; it's altering the very fabric of a home's heating infrastructure.

The Risks of Converting Away from Steam

While modern heating systems have their place, converting from steam can lead to:

  • Inadequate Heating: New systems may not provide the same level of warmth.
  • High Costs: Installation can be expensive and efficiency gains are often overstated.
  • Loss of Home Value: Historic homes can lose their charm and appeal without original features.

Expert Insights from New England SteamWorks

“Even if a conversion is performed successfully, it will have been considerably more expensive than simply upgrading the steam system and the claims of fantastic efficiency gains are never realized.”
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Ryan Curran, owner of New England SteamWorks, emphasizes the importance of education over conversion.

Advice for Homeowners

Before deciding to convert away from steam heating, consider the following:

  • Consult a Steam Heating Specialist: Get a professional assessment of your current system.
  • Understand Your Home's Needs: Older homes have unique characteristics that modern systems may not address.
  • Evaluate All Options: Sometimes upgrading or repairing your existing steam system is the best choice.
  • Beware of Overpromises: Be cautious of claims about efficiency and cost savings without substantial evidence.

Contact Us

If you're considering changes to your steam heating system or want to learn more, we're here to help.

Preserve the heart of your home. Trust the steam heating experts at New England SteamWorks.