What size boiler do I need for my Calgary home?

Proper boiler sizing depends on your home's square footage, insulation quality, ceiling heights, window efficiency, and Calgary's design temperature. A typical 1,500-2,000 sq ft home requires a 75,000-100,000 BTU boiler, while larger 2,500-3,500 sq ft homes need 100,000-150,000 BTU units.

How do I know if my boiler needs repair?

Common signs include strange noises like banging, whistling, or gurgling. Watch for pressure drops below 12 PSI, water leaks, inconsistent heating between rooms, frequent cycling, higher than normal gas bills, or error codes on the display.

What are the signs I need a new boiler?

Consider replacement if your boiler is 15-20+ years old. Frequent breakdowns costing more than 50% of a new unit indicate replacement makes financial sense. If your AFUE rating is below 80%, upgrading to a 95% efficient model could cut heating costs by $400-800 annually.

How often should I schedule boiler maintenance?

Annual boiler maintenance is essential, ideally scheduled in late summer or early fall before heating season begins. Regular maintenance extends equipment life by 5-10 years, maintains efficiency ratings, and prevents mid-winter breakdowns.

What is the difference between a boiler and a water heater?

Boilers heat water for your home's radiators, baseboard heaters, or radiant floor system, providing space heating. Water heaters heat water for domestic use like showers, dishwashing, and laundry. Combi boilers combine both functions from one unit.

Can I convert from forced air to a boiler system?

Yes, converting from forced air to boiler heat is possible but requires significant investment. Costs typically range from $15,000-$30,000 depending on home size and chosen heat distribution method.

Calgary Boilers

Installation, Repair & Maintenance | Flame Tech Plumbing & Heating

When the Calgary chill sets in, a reliable and efficient boiler is essential for keeping your home or business comfortable.

At Flame Tech Plumbing & Heating, we understand the unique heating needs of Calgary residents and businesses.

We offer comprehensive boiler services, from expert installation to prompt repairs and thorough maintenance, ensuring your heating system operates at peak performance when you need it most.

Appointment Call: 587-834-3668

Navien condensing boiler unit for Calgary homes

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Why Choose Flame Tech for Boilers in Calgary?

Choosing the right company for your boiler needs is crucial. Here’s why Calgary trusts Flame Tech Plumbing & Heating:

Local Calgary Boiler Experts

Our team comprises highly skilled and experienced technicians who live and work right here in Calgary. We understand the specific demands our climate places on your boiler system and are equipped to handle any issue, big or small.

We also offer boiler installations service in Airdrie and other surrounding communities.

Licensed & Insured Technicians

Your peace of mind is our priority. All our technicians are fully licensed and insured, guaranteeing professional and safe service that adheres to the highest industry standards.

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Flame Tech Plumbing and Heating service van in Calgary

Types of Boilers We Service

We have the expertise to service a wide variety of boiler systems, including:

High-Efficiency Boilers

Upgrade to a high-efficiency boiler and enjoy significant energy savings and reduced environmental impact.

We specialize in the installation and maintenance of these advanced systems.

Conventional Boilers

We are proficient in servicing traditional or conventional boilers, ensuring they operate reliably and efficiently.

We can advise you on the options based on your preferences and home.

Combi Boilers

For space-saving and efficient heating and hot water, combi boilers are a popular choice.

Our technicians are skilled in their installation, repair, and maintenance.

See Our Boiler Work in Calgary

Our Recent work

Boiler installation project completed by Flame Tech in Calgary

New high-efficiency boiler installed in Calgary home

Calgary residential boiler system by Flame Tech Plumbing

Professional boiler installation service in Calgary

Navien boiler installation by Flame Tech Calgary technicians

Boiler repair and maintenance work in Calgary home

IBC boiler system installed by Flame Tech Plumbing Calgary

Residential boiler upgrade project in Calgary

Calgary boiler installation with piping and controls

High-efficiency condensing boiler installed in Calgary basement

Flame Tech boiler service work in Calgary residence

Wall-mounted boiler installation by Flame Tech Calgary

Boiler system with radiant heating setup in Calgary home

New boiler installation with copper piping in Calgary

Calgary home boiler replacement by Flame Tech Plumbing

Completed boiler installation project in Calgary by Flame Tech

Trusted Boiler Brands We Install

We partner with industry-leading manufacturers to bring you reliable, efficient heating solutions built for Calgary’s climate.

Navien Boilers

Navien’s condensing boilers deliver industry-leading efficiency ratings up to 95% AFUE, significantly reducing your monthly heating costs. Their advanced stainless steel heat exchangers resist corrosion even in Calgary’s hard water conditions, while their compact wall-mounted designs save valuable basement space.

Navien boilers excel in our harsh winters with reliable ignition systems that perform flawlessly even at -30°C. We’re certified Navien installers with extensive experience in their combi boilers, which provide both space heating and endless hot water from a single efficient unit.

IBC Boilers

IBC Technologies brings decades of North American manufacturing expertise to every boiler system. Built specifically for Canadian climates, IBC boilers feature heavy-duty cast iron or stainless steel construction that withstands Calgary’s temperature extremes and water quality challenges.

Their modulating burner technology adjusts heating output precisely to your home’s needs, eliminating the energy waste of constant cycling. IBC’s smart controls integrate seamlessly with modern thermostats and zoning systems, giving you room-by-room temperature control.

These boilers are renowned for their longevity, with many units providing reliable service for 20-25 years when properly maintained.

Full Range Of Boiler Services

Our Calgary Boiler Services

Flame Tech Plumbing & Heating offers a complete range of boiler services to meet all your needs:

Boiler Installation in Calgary

Whether you’re upgrading your existing system or installing a boiler in a new build, our experts will guide you through the selection process to find the perfect, energy-efficient boiler for your property and provide seamless installation.

Close-up of hands adjusting a boiler system with precise instrumentation, showing maintenance work.

Boiler Repair Services

Is your boiler making strange noises, losing pressure, or not heating effectively?

Our skilled technicians can quickly diagnose and repair all types of boiler issues, restoring warmth and comfort to your space.

Boiler Maintenance & Tune-Ups

Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your boiler and preventing costly breakdowns.

Our comprehensive tune-up services ensure your system runs efficiently and safely, saving you money on energy bills and potential repairs down the line.

Emergency Boiler Service

Boiler emergencies don’t wait for business hours.

That’s why we offer 24/7 emergency boiler service to address critical issues promptly and restore your heating as quickly as possible.

A Great investment

Why Boilers Are a Smart Choice for Calgary Homes

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Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings

Modern boilers, especially high-efficiency models, are designed to maximize fuel utilization, leading to lower energy bills compared to some other heating systems.

Reliable Heating for Calgary Winters

Boilers provide consistent and comfortable heat, crucial for enduring Calgary’s long and often harsh winters.

The radiant heat they produce is known for its even distribution and cozy feel.

Quiet Operation & Comfort

Compared to some forced-air systems, boilers operate quietly, providing warmth without disruptive noise.

Boiler vs Furnace: Which Is Right for Your Calgary Home?

Understanding the differences helps you make the best choice for your home’s comfort and efficiency.

How Boilers Work

Boilers heat water and circulate it through radiators, baseboard heaters, or radiant floor systems. They deliver consistent, comfortable radiant heat without blowing air, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Modern condensing boilers capture waste heat from exhaust gases, achieving efficiency ratings of 90-98% AFUE. They operate almost silently and maintain even temperatures throughout your home without the hot and cold spots common with forced air systems.

Best For:

Homes with existing radiators or baseboard heating, multi-story homes needing zone control, properties where quiet operation matters, homeowners with allergies or respiratory sensitivities, and those prioritizing energy efficiency and even heat distribution.

How Furnaces Work

Furnaces heat air directly and distribute it through ductwork using a blower fan. They’re the most common heating system in Calgary, providing quick heat-up times and easy integration with central air conditioning. High-efficiency furnaces achieve 95-98% AFUE ratings, and they can incorporate air filtration and humidification systems for improved indoor air quality. The forced air distribution allows for effective whole-home air purification.

Best For:

Homes with existing ductwork, properties wanting combined heating and cooling, faster warm-up times, homes requiring whole-house air filtration or humidification, and typically lower upfront installation costs in new construction.

Not sure which system is right for you? Our heating experts will assess your home’s layout, existing infrastructure, and heating preferences to recommend the most efficient and cost-effective solution. Call 587-834-3668 for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calgary Boilers

Boiler installation costs in Calgary typically range from $8,000 to $15,000 depending on the unit size, efficiency rating, and complexity of installation. High-efficiency condensing boilers cost more upfront but save 20-30% on monthly heating bills. Combi boilers that provide both heating and hot water may cost $9,000-$16,000 installed. We offer financing through FinanceIT with flexible monthly payment options, often with promotional no-interest periods that make upgrading more affordable.

Proper boiler sizing depends on your home’s square footage, insulation quality, ceiling heights, window efficiency, and Calgary’s -35°C design temperature. A typical 1,500-2,000 sq ft home requires a 75,000-100,000 BTU boiler, while larger 2,500-3,500 sq ft homes need 100,000-150,000 BTU units. Oversized boilers waste energy through short-cycling, while undersized units struggle during extreme cold snaps. Our technicians perform detailed heat-loss calculations considering your home’s specific characteristics to recommend the perfectly sized system.

Common signs include strange noises like banging (kettling from limescale buildup), whistling (air in the system), or gurgling (circulation issues). Watch for pressure drops below 12 PSI, water leaks around the unit or radiators, inconsistent heating between rooms, frequent cycling on and off, higher than normal gas bills, or error codes on the display. Yellow flames instead of blue indicate dangerous incomplete combustion requiring immediate attention. If you notice any of these symptoms, call us at 587-834-3668 for a diagnostic inspection.

Consider replacement if your boiler is 15-20+ years old, as efficiency degrades significantly over time. Frequent breakdowns requiring repairs costing more than 50% of a new unit’s price indicate replacement makes financial sense. If your boiler’s AFUE rating is below 80%, upgrading to a 95% efficient model could cut heating costs by $400-800 annually. Visible rust, corrosion, or cracks in the heat exchanger require immediate replacement for safety. Difficulty finding replacement parts for discontinued models also signals it’s time to upgrade.

Annual boiler maintenance is essential, ideally scheduled in late summer or early fall before heating season begins. During a maintenance visit, we inspect and clean the heat exchanger, check all safety controls, test combustion efficiency, inspect venting systems, flush and treat the system for Calgary’s hard water, verify proper water pressure and flow, lubricate circulator pumps, and test zone valves. Regular maintenance extends equipment life by 5-10 years, maintains efficiency ratings, prevents mid-winter breakdowns, and ensures your warranty remains valid.

Alberta occasionally offers energy efficiency rebates through programs like the Canada Greener Homes Grant, which has provided up to $5,000 for qualifying heating upgrades. Municipal utilities sometimes run seasonal programs offering rebates for high-efficiency equipment. Eligibility typically requires minimum 95% AFUE ratings and professional installation with proper documentation. We stay current on available rebate programs and can help you navigate the application process, ensuring you receive maximum incentives for your boiler upgrade. Call us to discuss current rebate opportunities.

With proper maintenance, modern condensing boilers typically last 15-20 years in Calgary, while quality cast iron boilers can operate reliably for 20-25 years or more. Calgary’s hard water accelerates mineral buildup, making annual flushing and water treatment crucial for longevity. Our harsh temperature extremes stress heating systems more than moderate climates, potentially reducing lifespan without proper care. IBC and Navien boilers we install are built specifically for Canadian conditions and, when properly maintained through our service programs, consistently reach or exceed their expected lifespan.

Boilers heat water for your home’s radiators, baseboard heaters, or radiant floor system, providing space heating. The heated water circulates through your home and returns to the boiler for reheating. Water heaters heat water for domestic use like showers, dishwashing, and laundry, storing it in a tank or heating it on-demand. Combi boilers combine both functions, providing space heating and hot water from one unit, eliminating the need for a separate water heater while saving space and increasing efficiency.

Pressure loss usually indicates a water leak somewhere in the system, faulty pressure relief valve, failed expansion tank, or bleeding radiators releases more water than expected. Small leaks around pipe joints or radiator valves may not be immediately visible but will gradually reduce system pressure. The automatic fill valve might be malfunctioning if pressure drops repeatedly. Rapid pressure drops or water pooling around the unit require immediate professional attention. We can quickly diagnose pressure issues, locate hidden leaks, and restore your system to proper operating pressure.

Yes, converting from forced air to boiler heat is possible but requires significant investment. The conversion involves installing the boiler unit, adding radiators or baseboard heaters throughout your home, running new piping through walls or floors, and potentially removing old ductwork. Costs typically range from $15,000-$30,000 depending on home size and chosen heat distribution method. Radiant floor heating offers the most comfort but costs more than baseboard heaters. Many homeowners opt for this conversion when renovating to gain zone control, eliminate allergen circulation, and enjoy quieter, more comfortable heat. We’ll assess your home and provide detailed conversion estimates.

Common Calgary Boiler Problems We Fix

Kettling & Banging Noises

Calgary’s hard water causes limescale buildup on heat exchangers, creating steam bubbles that bang loudly. This reduces efficiency and can damage the exchanger. We descale units and install water treatment systems to prevent recurrence.

Frozen Condensate Lines

During -30°C cold snaps, condensate drain lines can freeze, shutting down your boiler. We insulate vulnerable sections, ensure proper drain slope, and can install heated condensate lines for problem installations.

Short Cycling

Boilers turning on and off frequently waste energy and wear components. Causes include oversized units, faulty thermostats, low water pressure, or dirty heat exchangers. We diagnose the root cause and implement lasting solutions.

Experiencing boiler problems? Our experienced technicians diagnose issues quickly and carry common parts on our trucks for same-day repairs. Call 587-834-3668 for fast, reliable service.

Request a Free Boiler Quote Online

Ready to upgrade your boiler or need a price for a new installation? Request a free, no-obligation quote through our website.

Locally Owned & Operated in Calgary

We are a proud Calgary-based business, committed to serving our community with integrity and expertise.

Our Commitment to Calgary Homeowners

We are dedicated to providing reliable, efficient, and affordable plumbing and heating solutions to homeowners throughout Calgary.