What Are the Key Features to Look for When Buying a Steam Boiler?

14 Jul.,2025

 

What Are the Key Features to Look for When Buying a Steam Boiler?

Purchasing the right steam boiler is essential for ensuring that your business runs efficiently and sustainably. Whether you’re involved in manufacturing, hospitality, food processing, or pharmaceuticals, having the right boiler impacts productivity, energy costs, and equipment lifespan. In this article, we’ll explore the key features to look for when buying a steam boiler to help you make an informed decision.

For more information, please visit Partedon Group.

At spenomatic.net, we offer a wide range of high-quality steam boilers tailored to various industrial applications. With expert guidance, installation services, and after-sales support, we ensure that businesses in Kenya get the best value for their investment.

Key Features to Consider When Buying a Steam Boiler

1. Steam Output and Capacity

The capacity of a steam boiler refers to the amount of steam it can generate, typically measured in kilograms per hour or tons per hour. Selecting a boiler with sufficient steam output ensures that your operations run smoothly without downtime.

  • Determine your business’s steam demand to choose a boiler that matches your daily production needs.
  • Consider future scalability to avoid the need for upgrades in a short time.

Spenomatic.net offers various sizes and capacities to suit both small businesses and large industries, ensuring that you never run out of steam.

2. Fuel Type and Efficiency

Choosing the right fuel type for your boiler is crucial for operational efficiency and cost savings. The most common fuel types include:

  • Natural Gas
  • Diesel or Oil
  • Biomass (organic materials)
  • Electricity

Each fuel type has its advantages. For example, biomass boilers are eco-friendly, while natural gas boilers offer low operating costs. At spenomatic.net, we provide energy-efficient boilers optimized for Kenya’s fuel availability.

3. Operating Pressure

Different industrial applications require varying levels of steam pressure. Boilers can be classified into low-pressure and high-pressure models, depending on their output.

  • Low-pressure boilers are ideal for smaller operations like laundries or bakeries.
  • High-pressure boilers suit industrial plants and power generation facilities.

It is essential to select a boiler with the appropriate pressure rating to avoid inefficiencies or safety risks. Our team at spenomatic.net helps businesses choose the right pressure levels based on their operations.

4. Design and Space Requirements

The physical space available at your facility will influence your boiler choice. Some boilers, like electric boilers, are compact and require less space, while others, such as water-tube boilers, may need a larger installation area.

Spenomatic.net offers space-efficient solutions that align with your facility’s layout, ensuring seamless installation.

5. Automation and Control Systems

Modern steam boilers come equipped with automated control systems for easy operation and maintenance. Automation improves:

  • Operational safety by monitoring pressure and temperature.
  • Fuel efficiency through automated start/stop systems.
  • Remote monitoring, allowing real-time performance tracking.

At spenomatic.net, we provide state-of-the-art boilers with advanced automation features, reducing the need for manual oversight.

6. Safety Features

Boilers operate under extreme heat and pressure, so safety is paramount. Look for essential safety features, including:

  • Automatic pressure relief valves
  • Water level monitoring systems
  • Over-temperature protection

Spenomatic.net ensures all boilers comply with international safety standards, safeguarding your business operations and employees.

7. Maintenance and After-Sales Support

Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of a steam boiler. Choose a supplier that offers not only high-quality equipment but also maintenance services and after-sales support.

At spenomatic.net, we provide:

  • Scheduled maintenance plans to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
  • Spare parts availability for minimal downtime.
  • Expert technical support throughout the product’s lifespan.

8. Environmental Impact and Compliance

With growing emphasis on sustainability, businesses must consider the environmental impact of their steam boilers. Look for boilers with:

  • Low emissions technology
  • Eco-friendly fuel options, such as biomass
  • Compliance with Kenya’s environmental regulations

At spenomatic.net, we offer environmentally friendly solutions to help businesses reduce their carbon footprint and comply with green energy policies.

Benefits of Owning a Steam Boiler from Spenomatic.net

1. Energy and Cost Efficiency

Our boilers are designed with energy-saving features that help businesses reduce fuel consumption and operational costs. High-efficiency models also lower maintenance expenses over time.

2. Reliable Performance

With advanced control systems and durable materials, our boilers guarantee consistent steam production, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations.

3. Customization for Industry-Specific Needs

Spenomatic.net provides tailored boiler solutions for various industries, ensuring each business gets the perfect fit for their operations.

4. Eco-Friendly Options

We offer biomass and electric boilers for businesses focused on reducing their environmental impact. These models help companies meet sustainability goals without compromising on performance.

5. Exceptional Customer Support

From installation to maintenance, spenomatic.net offers comprehensive support. Our experts provide advice, repairs, and maintenance services, ensuring that your equipment operates at peak performance.

FAQs

1. What size of steam boiler is suitable for my business?

The right size depends on your daily steam demand. Our experts at spenomatic.net can help assess your requirements and recommend the best solution.

2. Which fuel type is the most cost-effective?

This depends on fuel availability and cost in your area. Natural gas is generally more affordable, but biomass boilers offer long-term savings by using renewable fuel.

3. How often should I service my steam boiler?

It’s recommended to service your boiler annually to ensure efficiency and safety. Spenomatic.net offers reliable maintenance services to keep your boiler in top shape.

4. Can I automate my steam boiler?

Yes! Many modern boilers come with automated controls for fuel efficiency and safety. Spenomatic.net provides boilers with the latest automation technologies.

5. Are your boilers compliant with environmental regulations?

Yes, all our boilers meet Kenya’s environmental standards and support businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.

6. What is the lifespan of a steam boiler?

With proper maintenance, steam boilers can last 15 to 25 years. Regular servicing from spenomatic.net ensures maximum longevity.

7. Do you offer installation services?

Yes, we provide professional installation services to ensure your boiler is set up safely and efficiently.

8. How do I place an order?

You can explore our range of products and place an order directly on spenomatic.net. Our customer service team is available to assist with any inquiries.

Conclusion

Buying the right steam boiler requires careful consideration of key features, such as capacity, fuel type, efficiency, and safety. At spenomatic.net, we offer a wide selection of steam boilers, along with professional advice and after-sales services. Our team ensures you receive a reliable, efficient, and tailored solution that fits your business’s needs.

Purchasing Energy-Efficient Large Commercial Boilers

Small Commercial Boilers

Residential Gas Boilers

Commercial Gas Water Heaters

Residential Gas Furnaces

>">Find more Heating and Cooling Equipment efficiency requirements and a full list of covered product categories >>

The Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) provides acquisition guidance for large commercial boilers, a product category covered by FEMP-designated efficiency requirements. 

FEMP's acquisition guidance and efficiency requirements apply to gas- or oil-fired, low-pressure hot water or steam boilers used in commercial space heating applications with a rated capacity above 2,500,000 and at or below 10,000,000 British thermal units per hour (Btu/h). High-pressure boilers (i.e., those used in industrial and cogeneration applications) are excluded, while residential boilers (i.e., those with a capacity less than 300,000 Btu/h) and small commercial boilers (above 300,000 Btu/h and at or below 2,500,000 Btu/h) are covered by the ENERGY STAR program.

Want more information on Commercial Steam Boiler? Feel free to contact us.

This acquisition guidance was updated in June .

Find Product Efficiency Requirements

Federal purchases of commercial boilers must meet or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements and thermal efficiencies listed in Table 1. These efficiency levels can be voluntarily adopted by non-federal organizations, institutions, and purchasers.

Table 1. Efficiency Requirements for Large Commercial BoilersProduct ClassRated CapacityFuelHeating MediumEfficiency* (%)Large Gas-Fired Hot Water>2,500,000 Btu/h and ≤10,000,000 Btu/hGasHot WaterEc ≥ 96.0Large Gas-Fired Steam>2,500,000 Btu/h and ≤10,000,000 Btu/hGasSteamEt ≥ 83.7Large Oil-Fired Hot Water>2,500,000 Btu/h and ≤10,000,000 Btu/hOilHot WaterEc ≥ 89.0Large Oil-Fired Steam>2,500,000 Btu/h and ≤10,000,000 Btu/hOilSteamEt ≥ 85.8*Both thermal efficiency (Et) and combustion efficiency (Ec) are based on 10 CFR Part 431.86 - Uniform test method for the measurement of energy efficiency of commercial packaged boilers.

With the Clean Energy Rule finalized in Spring , federal agencies must significantly reduce the use of on-site fossil fuels in new and majorly renovated facilities used for federal purposes. From FY to FY , federal entities must reduce the use of fossil fuels by 90% in facilities that are newly constructed or undergoing major renovation (exceeding a total cost threshold of $3.8 million in dollars for federally owned buildings). To comply, contracting officers should avoid purchases of commercial fossil fuel-fired boilers. Federal buyers are encouraged to consult the Clean Energy Rule webpage for further guidance. If no technically practicable alternative to a fossil-fueled product can be found that meets the mission requirements of the agency, an agency may obtain guidance, or request technical assistance, or petition for downward adjustment of the fossil fuel reduction target from FEMP by contacting the Clean Energy Rule team.

FEMP has calculated that a 3,000,000 Btu/h gas-fired hot water commercial boiler meeting the required combustion efficiency level of 96.0% Ec saves money if priced no more than $59,703 above the base model. The best available model saves the average user more: $66,839 in lifetime energy costs. Table 2 compares three types of product purchases and calculates the lifetime cost savings of purchasing efficient models. Federal purchasers can assume products that meet FEMP-designated efficiency requirements are life cycle cost-effective.

Table 2. Lifetime Savings for Efficient 3,000,000 Btu/h Gas-Fired, Hot Water BoilersPerformanceBest AvailableRequired ModelBase ModelCombustion Efficiency98.0%96.0%82.0%Annual Energy Use (therms/yr)35,,,000Annual Energy Cost ($/yr)$29,808$30,429$35,625Lifetime Energy Cost (25 year)$342,552$349,689$409,392Lifetime Energy Cost Savings$66,839$59,703======
  • Performance Column

    Annual Energy Use: 1,400 full-load hours per year, for 25 years.

    Annual Energy Cost: Calculated based on an assumed natural gas price of 8.48¢ per therm, which is the average price at federal facilities in the United States (Site-Delivered Energy Use by End-Use Sector and Energy Type in Fiscal Year ).

    Lifetime Energy Cost: Future electricity price trends and a 3% discount rate are from the Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – : Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135 and NBS Special Publication 709 (NISTIR 85--39).

    Lifetime Energy Cost Savings: The difference between the lifetime energy cost of the less efficient model and the lifetime energy cost of the required model or best available model.

    Best Available Model Column

    Calculated based on highest efficiency model identified in publicly provided manufacturer data as of June . Note that more efficient models may be introduced to the market after FEMP's acquisition guidance is posted.

    Required Model Column

    Calculated based on FEMP-designated efficiency requirements. Federal agencies must purchase products that meet or exceed FEMP-designated efficiency levels.

    Base Model Column

    Calculated based on the current federal minimum efficiency standard for this product type.

Determine When FEMP-Designated Products Are Cost-Effective

An efficient product is cost-effective when the lifetime energy savings (from avoided energy costs over the life of the product, discounted to present value) exceed the additional up-front cost (if any) compared to a less efficient option. FEMP considers up-front costs and lifetime energy savings when setting required efficiency levels. Federal purchasers can assume products that meet FEMP-designated efficiency requirements are life cycle cost-effective. In high-use applications or when energy rates are above the federal average, purchasers may save more if they specify products that exceed FEMP efficiency requirements (e.g., the best available model).

Purchasing Requirements

Federal laws and requirements mandate that agencies purchase ENERGY STAR-qualified products or FEMP-designated products in all product categories covered by these programs and in any acquisition actions that are not specifically exempted by law.

These mandatory requirements apply to all forms of procurement, including construction guide and project specifications; renovation, repair, energy service, and operation and maintenance (O&M) contracts; lease agreements; acquisitions made using purchase cards; and solicitations for offers.

FAR Contract Language

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 23.206 requires agencies to insert the clause at FAR section 52.223-15 into contracts and solicitations that deliver, acquire, furnish, or specify energy-consuming products for use in federal government facilities. 

To comply with FAR requirements, FEMP recommends that agencies incorporate efficiency requirements into technical specifications, the evaluation criteria of solicitations, and the evaluations of solicitation responses.

  • Agencies may claim an exception to the Clean Energy Rule if no alternative to a fossil-fuel powered product is found that meets the technical needs and mission requirements of the agency. If an agency wishes to obtain further guidance, request technical assistance or petition for downward adjustment on the fossil fuel reduction target from FEMP, they may do so by contacting the Clean Energy Rule team and following the petition process. Contracting officers should still aim to purchase products that meet the ENERGY STAR or FEMP-designated requirements and minimize emissions as much as possible.

    Products meeting FEMP-designated efficiency requirements may not be life cycle cost-effective in certain low-use applications or in locations with very low rates for natural gas or fuel oil. However, for most applications, purchasers will find that energy-efficient products have the lowest life cycle cost.

    Agencies may claim an exception to federal purchasing requirements through a written finding that no FEMP-designated or ENERGY STAR-qualified product is available to meet functional requirements, or that no such product is life cycle cost-effective for the specific application. Learn more about federal product purchasing requirements.

Federal Supply Sources and Product Codes

The federal supply sources for energy-efficient products are the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provide programs that help federal agencies buy products with positive environmental attributes.

Identification codes for product categories covered by sustainable acquisition requirements are provided by DLA and the United Nations Standard Products and Services Code (UNSPSC).

  • Under the Multiple Award Schedule program, GSA issues long-term governmentwide contracts that provide access to commercial products, services, and solutions at pre-negotiated pricing.

    Federal buyers can use the GSA Multiple Award Schedules to find a vendor and pull up their latest price list. Alternatively, buyers can search for a specific product in GSA Advantage! or enter the product in GSA eBuy to get a quote from multiple vendors. Before purchasing a product through one of these channels or a preferred vendor, buyers should make sure the product meets the FEMP or ENERGY STAR efficiency requirements. For solicitations, buyers should include the relevant FAR clause and incorporate energy efficiency into the contract language and evaluation criteria to ensure compliance with the federal purchasing requirements.

    TAKE ACTION

    • Review the Multiple Award Schedule program.
       
    • Visit the GSA Advantage! online shopping network and associated acquisition tool GSA eBuy.
       
    • Learn about efficient, healthy buildings and environmentally responsible purchasing from the Sustainable Facilities (SF) Tool.
  • DLA offers products through the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia and online through FedMall (formerly DOD EMALL).

    TAKE ACTION

    • Visit FedMall.

    Products sold through DLA are codified with a 13-digit National Stock Number (NSN) and, in some cases, a two-letter Environmental Attribute Code (ENAC). The ENAC identifies items that have positive environmental characteristics and meet standards set by an approved third party, such as FEMP and ENERGY STAR.

  • USDA's BioPreferred Program was created to increase the purchase and use of biobased products. Federal law, the FAR, and Presidential Executive Orders direct that all federal agencies and their contractors purchase biobased products in categories identified by USDA. 

    TAKE ACTION

    • Review 139 categories of biobased products.
  • EPA offers several resources for choosing which products to buy. The Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program helps federal government purchasers utilize private sector standards and ecolabels to identify and procure environmentally preferable products and services.

    TAKE ACTION

    • Learn more about the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program.
       
    • Review federal purchasing specifications, standards, and ecolabels.
       
    • Get an overview of the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) and procuring environmentally preferable electronic products.
  • UNSPSC is a worldwide classification system for e-commerce. It contains more than 50,000 commodities, including many used in the federal sector, each with a unique eight-digit, four-level identification code. Manufacturers and vendors are beginning to adopt the UNSPSC classification convention and electronic procurement systems are beginning to include UNSPSC tracking in their software packages. UNSPSCs can help the federal acquisition community identify product categories covered by sustainable acquisition requirements, track purchases of products within those categories, and report on progress toward meeting sustainable acquisition goals. 

    TAKE ACTION

    • Review FEMP's table of product codes for ENERGY STAR and FEMP-designated covered product categories.

Commercial Boilers Schedules and Product Codes

GSA offers commercial boilers through Multiple Award Schedule Industrial Products HVAC and C schedules.

DLA's ENAC for commercial boilers is "HF."

The UNSPSCs for commercial boilers are , , , , and .

Buyer Tips: Make Informed Product Purchases

A boiler system should be capable of meeting the building's peak heating demand and also operate efficiently at part-load conditions. Selecting the right system and properly sizing a boiler requires knowledge of both the peak demand and load profile. If building loads are highly variable, as is common in commercial buildings, designers should consider installing multiple small (modular) boilers in addition to boilers that have modulating burners. In periods of low demand, some of the boilers can be isolated from the other boilers and not incur any standby losses or cycling losses. They can also be automatically staged such that each boiler is running at its most efficient operating point without incurring additional cycling.

For guidance on boiler rightsizing and quality installation, consult the American National Standards Institute/Air Conditioning Contractors of America Standard 5: HVAC Quality Installations Specification (ANSI/ACCA 5 QI ).

Federal procurement officers and buyers should consider specifying boilers with the following features:

  • Condensing: Hot water boilers include both condensing and non-condensing varieties. Condensing boilers that are able to extract heat from water vapor in the combustion gases for use in producing hot water are typically more efficient than non-condensing models. There are some tradeoffs to consider along with the efficiency improvements. Condensing boilers must be made of corrosion resistant materials which can increase their manufacturing cost. Although more expensive, condensing boilers' increased efficiency can significantly reduce energy costs to a point where savings exceeds the cost premium compared to a standard, non-condensing boiler. Hybrid systems are also useful particularly in retrofit applications to integrate new condensing boilers into an existing modular system with conventional boilers.
     
  • Water temperature reset: Hot water boilers should have the capability for water temperature reset. This is typically based on the outdoor air temperature or the return water temperature. When the heating load is reduced, the supply water is set to a lower temperature.
     
  • Modulating burners: It is recommended that boilers have the capability to vary their heating output by modulating the burner. Most of the time boilers operate at part load. To prevent excessive cycling and the losses that accompany them, specify boilers that have modulating capability. A minimum turndown ratio of 5:1 is recommended for gas-fired, hot-water boilers. This is particularly important in condensing boilers that run more efficiently at part load.
     
  • Low mass: Because boilers cycle on and off and it takes time to bring a high-mass boiler up to operating temperature, using low-mass boilers will reduce energy consumption. In addition, some boilers can be brought online quickly, therefore avoiding the need to keep a boiler on hot standby.
     
  • Remote monitoring capability: Remote monitoring capability is useful to manage boiler operation and to detect any malfunctions in a timely manner.
     
  • Precise air-fuel ratio control: It is important to keep the air-fuel ratio at optimum levels at part-load operation as well as full-load operation. This is better accomplished by using sensor-driven servos rather than a mechanical linkage (e.g., jack shaft) between the gas input and the blower damper. Oxygen trim systems should be used on larger boilers. Oxygen trim systems monitor the oxygen in the flue gas and adjust the air-fuel ratio for optimum combustion efficiency.
     
  • Optimum start control: An optimum start control fires up a boiler so that it fires just in time to heat up a building before it is occupied in the morning.
     
  • Other enhancements: Other options to increase efficiency of the heating system include reusing heat from blow down and return condensate for steam boilers, using electronic ignition devices, and increasing boiler and piping insulation.

Many new energy consuming commercial boilers come equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) sensing components, and network connectivity. Making a new purchase or replacement represents a prime opportunity to evaluate the vulnerabilities of your network. All IoT-enabled devices introduce novel exposures to potential data breaches. Building controls and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems are no exception. Security can almost never be networked in after the fact, and so it is important to ensure that your networked devices are secure. Also, regularly testing for network vulnerabilities is key. For more information on how to build cybersecure networks of building technologies, consult FEMP’s Energy and Cybersecurity Integration resources and Cyber-Securing Facility Related Control Systems fact sheet.

User Tips: Use Products More Efficiently

Several diagnostic and maintenance procedures are important to maintain efficient boiler operation. Flue gas temperature monitoring is useful in detecting efficiency and operating problems. Maintaining steady excess air levels (with an oxygen trim sensor) ensures that burners will mix air and fuel properly. Low water levels can damage boilers, so water levels should be checked frequently as part of a regular maintenance program. Water treatment can prolong boiler life as well as increase efficiency. Waterside and fireside surfaces should be cleaned annually.

The Boiler Efficiency Institute provides maintenance and operation manuals for boilers and boiler control systems. To encourage quality operations and maintenance, building engineers can also refer to ASHRAE/ACCA Standard 180: Standard Practice for Inspection and Maintenance of Commercial Building HVAC Systems. In addition, the FEMP O&M Best Practices Guide, Release 3.0, Chapter 9 provides valuable information on operation and maintenance of boiler systems.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory provided supporting analysis for this acquisition guidance.

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