Boiler systems for hot water supply are an important element of the engineering infrastructure of any building. But, while there is a high level of similarity between the two types generally, they vary in implementation in old and new structures because of technical, design and operating characteristics. In this article, we will be passing light on the differences between the systems or the types, their benefits, and their drawbacks.
1. Design of the water supply system
Old houses: Water supply in older buildings is also integrated with a centralized hot water supply system. This involved the installation of collective boilers or water heating in association with boiler rooms. In such systems, the pipes were made of steel, and one of the main problems of this material is its vulnerability to corrosion. This situation gradually grew into a problem of pipeline capacity loss and constant leakage. When constructing new houses, installing an individual boiler for a personal apartment or house is preferable. New polymer and metal-plastic pipes offer such features as high corrosion safety, durability, and stable water pressure, as distinguished from old systems that are much more prone to breakdown.
2. Energy efficiency
Older buildings: Older boiler systems have low energy efficiency. Water heating technologies are outdated, which causes significant energy losses. In addition, pipes without proper insulation contribute to the rapid cooling of the water, which further increases energy consumption.
New buildings: Modern systems are equipped with advanced energy-saving technologies. For example, boilers with high-quality tank insulation, programmable operating modes, and intelligent temperature controls help minimize energy consumption. Recirculation systems also reduce heat loss by ensuring a constant hot water supply.
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3. Volume and type of boilers
Old buildings: Large storage boilers designed for peak water consumption were installed in older buildings. Although they provide a steady water supply even at high consumption, their size and long heating times inconvenience them.
New buildings: Newer homes are dominated by more compact and technologically advanced boilers. Instantaneous boilers heat water quickly, and storage models take up less space while providing enough hot water for modern needs. The new buildings are also modernizing their bathrooms, including modernizing the bathtub. Learn the difference between steel bathtub vs. acrylic.
4. Automation and control
Older homes: So boilers in older homes do not require tall automatic devices such as temperature and pressure controllers. This means they have to be adjusted manually, which can be time-consuming and often unreliable.
New buildings: The heating system is currently fitted with electronic displays that enable one to adjust various boiler settings. Many models provide remote interaction via mobile applications, simplifying control and operation. Safety systems, such as automatic shutdown in case of overheating, also add convenience and reliability.
5. Maintenance and repair
Older buildings: Maintenance is difficult and costly in older boiler systems due to worn materials. Scale build-up in tanks and pipes needs to be cleaned regularly, and spare parts for older models can be expensive or hard to come by.
New buildings: The latest boilers are built with materials that prevent scale formation. Their modular design makes repairs and component replacement faster and cheaper. Advanced technology also makes regular maintenance easier.
6. Environmental friendliness
Old buildings: Older boilers consume more energy, which increases their carbon footprint. In addition, the lack of modern water treatment technologies can negatively affect the quality of the wastewater.
New buildings: Energy-efficient boilers in new buildings can significantly reduce resource consumption. They can be powered by alternative energy sources such as solar panels or heat pumps, making them more environmentally friendly. In addition, new systems often include water treatment and reuse technologies.
7. Design and integration
Older buildings: In older buildings, boilers are often bulky and take up a lot of space. Their design was rarely considered as part of the interior.
New buildings: In modern homes, boilers are integrated into the interior design. They are compact and aesthetic and can be hidden in furniture or special niches. This saves space and improves the overall look of the room.
Conclusion
The differences between boiler systems in old and new homes are due to technological advances and changes in user needs. Modern systems offer more convenience, efficiency, and safety, while older systems often need to be modernized. Investing in the latest solutions will ensure comfort, reduced energy costs, and system durability, which are important for modern lifestyles.
