Well, it looks like I'm buying this 1923 4 square this week. <br>Now I have a few questions. <br>It has an oil fired boiler with steam heat. <br>I would like to convert it to a gas fired one with hot water. <br>Is it possible to keep the existing pipework and radiators. <br>I assume the boiler change would be no problem, am I correct in that assumption? <br>Thanks for any guidance. <br> <br>

We have a new gas-fired furnace working our original steam system and think its great. However, I think the previous owner paid 8G for the new furnace. On the other hand it will last another 50+ years at least. <br> <br>Whatever you do, don't let someone talk you in to abandoning the radiant system and going with central heat (providing your radiators and pipes are in reasonable condition). Radiators are much cleaner. Think about how gross duct systems are, with the dirt, mold spores, dust mites and allergens building up for decades, spewing into your air every day. Ick. I am so glad I have a radiant heat system. <br> <br>Plus I just think radiators look very cool <br> <br>

Many steam systems are one-pipe lines which makes hot water conversion impossible. Even two-pipe steam systems will require extensive modifications. All steam radiators would require modifications for hot water and even then may not be capable of containing hot water compared to the low pressure steam the radiators were designed for. <br> <br>Why not convert to a gas boiler on the existing steam system? Regardless, you should check with the installer and a chimney specialist to determine if the flue needs to be relined. Modern efficient furnaces burn cooler, so there is higher likelihood of condensation within the chimney flue. If the flue is not lined, the condensation will eventually seep through the masonry and appear similar to a roof leak on the walls and ceilings adjacent to the chimney. <br> <br>

A good source for info is "HeatingHelp.com". I too thought I would like to convert from steam to H.W. until I looked into it. <br> <br>

bought the steam system book available at Heatinghelp.com - I highly recommend it. My old system runs great, mainly from the easy fixes found in the book and on the web site. <br>