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Chicago & Cook County · Since 2016
Boiler Installation & Replacement in Chicago, IL
A new boiler is one of the best heating investments a Chicago homeowner can make: quiet, even warmth that lasts 15 to 20 years when it is sized and installed correctly. Browns Heating & Cooling installs and replaces steam, hot-water, combi and high-efficiency condensing boilers across Chicago, with upfront flat-rate pricing, the city permit handled for you and your old boiler hauled away.
Boiler installation in Chicago
High-Efficiency Boiler Installation & Replacement for Chicago Homes
Browns Heating & Cooling installs and replaces boilers across Chicago with EPA-certified technicians, upfront flat-rate pricing and all city permits handled for you. We have kept Chicago homes warm since 2016, with a BBB A+ rating and hundreds of five-star customer reviews. From sizing the right unit to removing your old one, we manage the full installation so your home is ready before the next cold snap.
Whether you are replacing an aging cast iron boiler in a vintage two-flat or upgrading to a high-efficiency condensing model, we install every type: combi, system, conventional, steam and hot-water boilers, along with the expansion tanks, circulator pumps and controls that go with them, all code-compliant and safety-first.
Ready to upgrade your heat before winter? Get a free boiler quote today. Call (708) 536-8134 or book your installation online.
What we install
Boiler Types We Install in Chicago
Choosing the right boiler is the most important decision in any installation. Here is how the main options compare for Chicago homes.
Combi boilers
A combi (combination) boiler provides both space heating and hot water from one compact unit, with no separate storage tank. Its space-saving design suits Chicago condos, townhomes and smaller homes with one or two bathrooms.
System boilers
A system boiler works with a separate hot water storage tank to supply several bathrooms at once. It is the better choice for larger homes and families with high simultaneous hot water demand.
Conventional boilers
Also called heat-only or traditional boilers, these are the natural replacement when your home already has radiators and a separate hot water setup, a common and cost-effective upgrade for Chicago’s older housing.
High-efficiency condensing boilers
Modern condensing boilers reach efficiency ratings above 90%, compared with 80–85% for older non-condensing units. They capture heat that would otherwise escape up the flue, which cuts fuel use and winter heating bills.
Steam boilers
Many Chicago greystones, two-flats and older single-family homes still heat with steam. We replace steam boilers matched to your existing radiators and piping, so the system heats evenly without banging or cold rooms.
Expansion tanks, pumps & controls
A boiler is only as good as the parts around it. We install expansion tanks, circulator pumps, pressure relief valves, zone valves and controls to code, and can add a buffer tank where the system needs one.
Steam vs. hot water
Steam or Hot-Water Boiler? What Chicago Homeowners Should Know
Before choosing a new boiler, it helps to know which kind of system your home has, because steam and hot-water boilers are not interchangeable. A steam boiler boils water and pushes steam up to the radiators, where it condenses and runs back down to the boiler. A hot-water, or hydronic, boiler never boils: it heats water and a circulator pump moves it through radiators, baseboard or radiant floor tubing.
Steam is common in Chicago’s greystones, two-flats and homes built in the early 1900s, and a properly sized steam replacement keeps those cast iron radiators working the way they were designed to. The trade-off is efficiency: steam boilers are non-condensing, so they top out in the 80s. Hot-water systems can use a high-efficiency condensing boiler and run 90% AFUE or higher, which is where the biggest savings on gas bills come from.
Converting a steam system to hot water is sometimes possible, but it usually involves new piping, checking every radiator and adding pumps and controls, so it is not right for every home. We look at your piping, radiators and budget and give you an honest recommendation either way.
| Steam boiler | Hot-water (hydronic) boiler | |
|---|---|---|
| How it heats | Boils water and sends steam up to the radiators | Pumps heated water through radiators, baseboard or radiant floors |
| Common in | Greystones, two-flats and homes built before about 1930 | Mid-century homes, rehabs, condos and radiant floor systems |
| How to tell | A sight glass on the boiler and one pipe or two pipes at each radiator | A pressure gauge, expansion tank and circulator pump near the boiler |
| Efficiency | Non-condensing, typically low to mid 80s AFUE | Condensing models reach 90–96% AFUE |
| Peoples Gas rebate | Up to $150 (82.5%+ AFUE) | Up to $300–$500 (90%+ AFUE) |
Not sure which you have? Send us a photo of your boiler when you request a quote, or ask our technician during the free in-home estimate.
Built for Chicago homes
Why Boiler Heat Works So Well in Chicago Homes
Boiler heat is a perfect match for Chicago’s housing because so many local homes were built for it. Homes built before 1950, including brownstones, two-flats and vintage single-families, were originally designed around radiators and radiant heat.
Radiant heat from a boiler warms the room evenly and quietly, without the cold spots and noise of forced air. Because it does not blow air around, it also does not dry out your indoor air or circulate dust and allergens, a real comfort difference during long Chicago winters.
That is why upgrading the boiler, rather than switching to forced air, is usually the smartest move in an older Chicago home: you keep the comfort of the existing radiator system while gaining modern efficiency.
Repair or replace?
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Boiler
A well-maintained high-efficiency boiler lasts about 15 years, and older cast iron boilers can run 20 years or more. Age alone is not a reason to replace a boiler that still runs safely, but age combined with frequent breakdowns usually is.
A useful rule of thumb: if your boiler is past 15 years and a repair would cost a large share of what a new boiler costs, replacement is usually the smarter investment. A new unit stops the repair cycle, lowers your gas bills and comes with a fresh manufacturer warranty. If your boiler is younger and the problem is a single part, a boiler repair is often the right call, and we will tell you honestly which makes sense.
Time to consider a new boiler if…
- Your boiler is 15 to 20 years old or older
- You are calling for repairs every heating season
- Gas bills keep rising even though your usage has not changed
- Some radiators stay cold while others overheat
- You see water leaks, rust or corrosion around the boiler
- Banging, kettling or whistling noises that maintenance does not fix
- A yellow or flickering burner flame, soot, or a carbon monoxide alarm
Choosing & sizing
How to Choose the Right Boiler
The right boiler depends on three things: your home’s size, your fuel type and your hot water demand.
Sizing is a calculation, not a guess
Sizing is measured in BTUs and based on a heat-loss calculation for your specific home. An oversized boiler wastes fuel and short-cycles, while an undersized one cannot keep up in January. For steam systems, we also measure the radiators, because a steam boiler has to match the radiation it feeds. Our technicians run the numbers on-site so your unit is matched precisely to your home.
Fuel, venting and your chimney
Most Chicago homes run on natural gas, which heats quickly and costs less to operate. We evaluate your venting, piping and existing setup, then recommend the right type and efficiency level for your budget and comfort goals. High-efficiency condensing boilers vent through PVC pipe and need a condensate drain, while non-condensing boilers often vent into an existing masonry chimney that may need a liner. We inspect the chimney and venting as part of every quote, so there are no surprises on installation day.
If your home uses radiant floor heat or you are considering it, see our guide on radiant floor heating costs in Chicago, since those systems run on a high-efficiency boiler too.
What we check before recommending a boiler
- Heat-loss calculation for your home
- Steam or hot-water system and radiator sizing
- Existing piping, valves and expansion tank
- Chimney, venting and condensate drainage
- Hot water needs and number of bathrooms
- Gas line size and electrical supply
Our process
Our Boiler Installation Process
Boiler installation is more involved than a furnace or water heater swap, so we follow a careful, code-compliant process from start to finish. A straightforward replacement is often completed in a single day.
Free in-home assessment
We assess your home’s heat-loss needs, existing piping, radiators and venting.
Upfront, flat-rate quote
We recommend the right unit and give you a flat-rate price before any work begins.
Permit & scheduling
Once you approve, we pull the required city permit and schedule your install.
Old boiler removal
On installation day we safely disconnect, remove and haul away your old boiler.
Professional installation
We position and vent the new unit, connect supply and return piping with proper pitch, and install the expansion tank, pressure relief valve and controls.
Testing & walkthrough
We test the full system, confirm safe operation and show you how it works, all backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Cost, rebates & financing
Boiler Installation Cost in Chicago
Boiler installation in Chicago typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the boiler type, your home’s size and the complexity of the installation. High-efficiency condensing units cost more upfront but deliver real savings on every winter heating bill. For a full breakdown of what affects your price, see our detailed guide to boiler replacement costs in Chicago.
To spread the investment over time, we offer flexible financing on installations over $500 with approved credit.
| Cost factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Boiler type | Combi, system, conventional and steam boilers are priced differently, and condensing models cost more upfront. |
| Size (BTUs) | Larger homes need higher-output boilers, sized by a heat-loss calculation. |
| Efficiency (AFUE) | 90%+ condensing boilers cost more to buy but less to run every winter. |
| Venting & chimney | PVC venting, a chimney liner or a condensate drain can add to the job. |
| Piping & controls | Re-piping, new zone valves, pumps or a buffer tank add labor and parts. |
| Permit & removal | The city permit and haul-away of the old boiler are part of the job. |
Rebates on a new boiler
If your gas service is with Peoples Gas, a qualifying new boiler may earn a utility rebate. Rebates are available for single-family homes, two-flats and individually metered condos and townhomes, and they cannot exceed the project cost.
| Peoples Gas boiler rebate | Minimum AFUE | Rebate |
|---|---|---|
| Boiler with integrated hot water (combi) | 95% | Up to $500 |
| Boiler with integrated hot water (combi) | 90% | Up to $400 |
| Hot-water boiler | 95% | Up to $350 |
| Hot-water boiler | 90% | Up to $300 |
| Steam boiler | 82.5% | $150 |
Rebate amounts are from the Peoples Gas Home Energy Rebates program and can change, so check current terms before you buy. The federal 25C energy efficiency tax credit ended for equipment installed after December 31, 2025. See our Chicago HVAC rebates page for current programs.
Permits, code & safety
Permits, Code & Safety
Every boiler installation in Chicago requires a permit and must meet city plumbing, gas and venting codes. We handle the entire permitting process so your system is fully compliant and safe.
Proper venting is also a critical safety matter. A correctly installed and vented boiler safely removes combustion gases from your home, protecting your family against carbon monoxide. This is exactly why boiler installation should always be left to a licensed local professional.
Included with every installation
- City of Chicago permit pulled and closed out
- Code-compliant gas, water and venting connections
- Pressure relief valve and safety controls installed
- Carbon monoxide and combustion safety checks
- Removal and haul-away of your old boiler
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
Why Browns
Why Choose Browns Heating & Cooling for Boiler Installation
With 10 years heating Chicago homes, a BBB A+ rating and EPA-certified technicians who know the city’s older housing stock, we are the team Chicagoans trust to install a boiler that lasts, backed by responsive customer service every step of the way and our satisfaction guarantee.
Same-day quotes & fast scheduling
Warm before the next cold snap.
Punctual dispatch & arrival times
We respect your time.
Competitive pricing, coupons & discounts
Flat-rate pricing, no surprises.
All permits & code compliance handled
Done right and done legally.
Background-checked & drug-free technicians
Professional, careful and clean.
Old boiler removal & haul-away included
Start to finish, one job.
Reviews
What Chicago Homeowners Say
Service areas
Boiler Installation Across Chicago & Cook County
We install and replace boilers in homes and two-flats throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods, from Lincoln Park and Lakeview to Beverly, Chatham, South Shore and Englewood, plus nearby Cook County suburbs. Choose your area for local details, or call and we will confirm coverage for your address.
FAQs
Boiler Installation FAQs
How much does boiler installation cost in Chicago?
Boiler installation in Chicago generally costs between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on the boiler type, home size and installation complexity. High-efficiency condensing boilers cost more upfront but lower your heating bills over time, and we provide upfront pricing before any work begins. See our boiler replacement cost guide for details.
How long does it take to install a new boiler?
A straightforward boiler replacement is often completed in a single day, while complex installations involving new piping or venting can take longer. We give you a clear timeline upfront after assessing your home.
Which boiler is best for a Chicago home?
For smaller homes and condos, a combi boiler saves space by combining heat and hot water; for larger homes with multiple bathrooms, a system boiler is better. A high-efficiency condensing model is the best long-term value for most hot-water systems thanks to lower fuel costs, while homes with steam radiators need a properly sized steam boiler.
Should I replace my steam boiler with another steam boiler?
In most Chicago homes with steam radiators, yes. A new steam boiler sized to your radiators is the simplest, most cost-effective replacement. Converting to hot water can raise efficiency but usually means new piping and controls, so we only recommend it when it makes sense for your home and budget.
Do I need a permit to install a boiler in Chicago?
Yes. Chicago requires a permit for boiler installation, and the work must meet city code. We handle the entire permitting process for you as part of the job.
How long do boilers last?
A well-maintained high-efficiency boiler lasts about 15 years, while older cast iron boilers can run 20 years or more. If yours is past 15 years and needing frequent repairs, replacement is usually the smarter investment.
Should I repair or replace my boiler?
If the boiler is under about 15 years old and the problem is a single part, repair is usually worth it. If it is older, breaking down every season or the repair would cost a large share of a new boiler, replacement saves money over time. We give you honest pricing for both options.
Are there rebates for a new boiler in Chicago?
Peoples Gas customers can qualify for rebates on new high-efficiency boilers, from $150 on qualifying steam boilers up to $500 on combi boilers with 95% AFUE or higher. Terms can change, so check the current program. The federal 25C tax credit ended for equipment installed after December 31, 2025.
Do you remove the old boiler?
Yes. Removal and haul-away of your old boiler is included with every installation, so you do not have to arrange disposal yourself.
Can I finance a new boiler?
Yes. We offer flexible financing on installations over $500 with approved credit, so you can spread the cost of a new boiler over time.
Schedule Boiler Installation in Chicago Today
Call us at 708-536-8134 for a free boiler quote.
Contact
Contact Our Boiler Specialists
Stay warm all winter with a professionally installed, high-efficiency boiler from Browns Heating & Cooling. We handle the unit, the permit and the haul-away, all backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
(708) 536-8134
Call or contact us online