Radiant floor heating is amazing when it’s done right. That cozy warmth radiating up from the floor is hard to beat on a cold winter day. But the heart of any radiant system is the boiler, and choosing the wrong one can lead to headaches and cold feet – literally. It’s crucial to get a boiler that’s efficient, reliable, and properly sized for your home’s radiant heating needs. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and even installing these systems, so I know what to look for. Here’s my rundown of the top boilers for radiant heat.
Product Overview
- Navien NCB-240E: High efficiency, combi boiler, great for space heating and domestic hot water.
- Rheem RTGH-95DVLN: Tankless water heater, efficient and space-saving option.
- Bosch Greenstar 151: Wall-hung boiler, known for reliability and modulating capabilities.
- Weil-McLain ECO Tec 80: High-efficiency boiler, designed for easy installation and service.
- Lochinvar Noble Condensing Boiler: Compact design, efficient performance, and user-friendly controls.
Top 5 Best Boilers for Radiant Heat
1. Navien NCB-240E
The Navien NCB-240E is a combi boiler, meaning it provides both space heating and domestic hot water. This makes it a great option if you’re looking to save space and have a single unit handle all your heating needs. It’s known for its high efficiency and reliable performance.
Pros:
- ✅ High efficiency reduces energy bills.
- ✅ Combi design saves space.
- ✅ Provides both heating and hot water.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive upfront.
- ❌ Requires professional installation.
- ❌ May not be suitable for very large homes with high hot water demand.
Verdict: The Navien NCB-240E is an excellent choice for homes needing both efficient heating and hot water from a single, space-saving unit.
2. Rheem RTGH-95DVLN
The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN is a tankless water heater that can be used for radiant floor heating. While primarily designed for domestic hot water, its high BTU output makes it suitable for smaller radiant heating systems. It’s a great choice if you’re tight on space and want on-demand hot water.
Pros:
- ✅ On-demand hot water, never runs out.
- ✅ Compact and space-saving design.
- ✅ High BTU output suitable for small radiant systems.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be powerful enough for large radiant systems.
- ❌ Requires careful sizing and installation.
- ❌ Can experience cold water sandwich effect if not properly configured.
Verdict: If you have a smaller radiant heating zone and want the convenience of on-demand hot water, the Rheem RTGH-95DVLN is a solid option.
3. Bosch Greenstar 151
The Bosch Greenstar 151 is a wall-hung boiler known for its reliability and modulating capabilities. Modulating means it can adjust its output to match the heating demand, leading to better efficiency and comfort. I’ve seen these last for years with minimal maintenance.
Pros:
- ✅ Modulating burner for improved efficiency.
- ✅ Compact wall-hung design.
- ✅ Reliable and durable.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be pricier than some other options.
- ❌ Requires professional installation and setup.
- ❌ Some users report complex control settings.
Verdict: The Bosch Greenstar 151 is a top-tier choice for homeowners who value reliability, efficiency, and precise temperature control.
4. Weil-McLain ECO Tec 80
The Weil-McLain ECO Tec 80 is a high-efficiency boiler designed for easy installation and service. This is a great feature for installers, but it also means easier maintenance down the road for homeowners. It’s a robust and dependable option for radiant heating.
Pros:
- ✅ High efficiency for lower energy bills.
- ✅ Easy to install and service.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ May require a larger physical footprint than wall-hung models.
- ❌ Initial cost can be higher.
- ❌ Some users have reported issues with specific components.
Verdict: The Weil-McLain ECO Tec 80 is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a reliable, high-efficiency boiler that’s easy to maintain.
5. Lochinvar Noble Condensing Boiler
The Lochinvar Noble Condensing Boiler is a compact and efficient option for radiant heat. It’s designed with user-friendly controls and offers reliable performance. Plus, its compact size makes it easier to fit into smaller spaces.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact design fits in tight spaces.
- ✅ High efficiency for energy savings.
- ✅ User-friendly controls for easy operation.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be suitable for very large homes with high heating demands.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some non-condensing boilers.
- ❌ Requires professional installation.
Verdict: The Lochinvar Noble is an excellent choice if you need a compact, efficient, and easy-to-use boiler for your radiant heating system.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right boiler for radiant heat can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into a few key factors makes the process much easier.
- Sizing: The most important factor is getting the right size boiler for your home. Too small, and it won’t be able to keep up with the heating demand. Too large, and it will cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan. A professional HVAC technician can perform a heat loss calculation to determine the correct BTU output for your home.
- Efficiency: Look for boilers with high AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the boiler is at converting fuel into heat, saving you money on energy bills. Condensing boilers are generally more efficient than non-condensing models.
- Type: Consider whether you need a combi boiler (for both heating and hot water) or a dedicated heating boiler. Combi boilers are great for space-saving, but dedicated boilers may be more suitable for homes with high hot water demand.
- Fuel Type: Boilers can run on natural gas, propane, or oil. Choose the fuel type that’s most readily available and cost-effective in your area.
- Installation: Professional installation is crucial for ensuring the boiler operates safely and efficiently. Don’t try to DIY this unless you’re a licensed HVAC technician.
- Budget: Boilers can range in price from a few thousand dollars to upwards of ten thousand, including installation. Set a budget and stick to it, but don’t sacrifice quality for cost. A well-built boiler will last for many years and save you money in the long run.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about boilers for radiant heat:
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Q: What is AFUE?
A: AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It’s a measure of how efficient a boiler is at converting fuel into heat. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the boiler.
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Q: What is a combi boiler?
A: A combi boiler provides both space heating and domestic hot water. It’s a great option for saving space and simplifying your heating system.
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Q: How do I size a boiler for radiant heat?
A: The best way to size a boiler is to have a professional HVAC technician perform a heat loss calculation for your home. This will determine the correct BTU output needed to heat your home efficiently.
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Q: How long do boilers typically last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality boiler can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, or even longer.
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Q: What maintenance is required for a boiler?
A: Regular maintenance typically includes annual inspections, cleaning, and checking for leaks or other issues. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is key.
Conclusion
Choosing the right boiler for radiant heat is a big decision, but with the right information, you can make a smart choice that will keep your home warm and comfortable for years to come. Consider your home’s size, heating needs, and budget, and don’t hesitate to consult with a professional HVAC technician for guidance. Ultimately, the best boiler is one that’s efficient, reliable, and properly sized for your specific needs.
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