buying a home with radiator heat

jake22

Hi, I am shopping for a rental property, and have come across a place I really like, which has a boiler and radiator heat through the entire house (3 units). I don't know much about hydronic heating other than the basics, but I have one main question:

Is it a good idea to buy this house with its old boiler/radiator heating, or should I consider this a negative factor in my purchase decision?

To rephrase, do you think that people are generally being advised not to buy this house because of the heating system?



Any input would be appreciated,

jeff

Alan (California Radiant) Forbes

Radiator Heat

The house is probably worth more with this king of a heating system.  If it's installed properly, it will be quiet and comfortable.



As with any house that you are looking to buy, have it inspected by a professional, trained and practicing hydronic heating.

Brad White

I agree with Alan

A house with cast iron radiators is a plus and with folks like me, a deciding factor sometimes.



The age of the equipment and useful remaining life, those are things you take into account regardless of what delivers the heat to the space. But cast iron, that is, as Alan said, the king of heat emitters. Durable, ultimate value that can see several boiler replacements using the original radiators.



Now, if you are a prospective landlord, trying to get that to translate into happy tenants and economical operation, that depends on who pays for the heat, things you know. Your metrics to contemplate.



But for me, speaking as a one-time landlord but also as a homeowner and tenant at times, I see plus signs. Properly explained to your tenant market, you may see dollar signs.

jake22

thanks

Thanks guys, this has been very helpful. It's unanimous among all that I've asked - there's nothing wrong with radiators, and for many they are preferable.

bob eck

buying a home with radiator heat

is it hot water heat or steam heat? if it is hot water heat and there is natural gas available look at installing a 95% condensing gas boiler like the triangle tube Prestige solo boiler and their smart indirect stainless steel water heater for domestic hot water. with the triangle tube smart indirect water heater you can store the water at higher temp like 160*F and install a good tempering valve to reduce water temp to 120*F going to faucets and the indirect water heater will produce more hot water. plus boiler with indirect water heater you only have to vent one appliance.  if going condensing gas boiler they vent sidewall so you do not have to worry about the chimney. you said there are three units. Is there one heating system or is everything split up with three different boilers and three systems? if going from oil to condensing Nat gas boiler the savings can be big and pay for the system. if one system you still can set up three heating zones to make sure everyone is comfortable. reduce your water and sewer bills by installing alsons 1.6 GPM sower heads and 1.26 gpf toilets. with low flow shower heads you also will reduce your energy costs to make hot water.