A boiler is a heating appliance that heats water, usually with natural gas, and circulates it through pipes to radiators, baseboard convectors, in-floor radiant loops, or a hydronic air handler. This is called hydronic heating. Modern condensing boilers recover heat from exhaust gases, and many combination boilers also supply domestic hot water.
Why it matters to you
Many older Fraser Valley homes were built with hydronic heat, which delivers quiet, even, dust-free warmth. Because converting to forced air means adding ductwork from scratch, a modern condensing boiler is usually the practical upgrade path for those homes.
Practical guidance
Watch the boiler's pressure gauge and look for drips at valves and fittings; small pressure drift caught early prevents bigger repairs. Book annual service, and if you want cooling, ask about ductless mini-splits that work alongside the boiler.