Harbour Energy Successfully Completes Boiler Repair in Vancouver on 1912 Model

A hundred-year-old boiler will likely run another hundred years with a little TLC from the team at Harbour Energy Systems.

As a team of HVAC contractors in Vancouver, Harbour Energy provides complete installation, repair, and maintenance services for all heating and cooling systems. We’re certified A and B gas-fitters in Vancouver, and also offer commercial boiler installation. After more than 15 years in business, we thought we’d seen it all, but recently we came across a job that even tested our skills and knowledge.

A local homeowner needed home boiler repair in Vancouver. The model in question: an Arco boiler, patented in 1904 and installed when the East Vancouver residence was built in 1912. The boiler initially fired on coal but had been converted to natural gas, likely after the Second World War, when gas became available in Vancouver. The homeowner contacted multiple HVAC contractors in Vancouver. Most said upgrading the system was unavoidable. They couldn’t figure out how the system worked and refused to consider repairs.

Antique Boiler Repair in Vancouver

Even as a team with over twenty years of experience in boiler installation in Vancouver, this was one of the most interesting and unique systems we’ve encountered. The boiler used gravity circulation to warm the home—no pumps needed.

The problem was the boiler wasn’t staying lit. The flame was weak and flickered out randomly. Our technicians diagnosed the problem. After replacing the gas control valve and adjusting the gas pressure and combustion air flow, the flame worked beautifully. This boiler will likely run for another hundred years.

It was a happy ending for the homeowner, an artisan who hand-crafted custom-made guitars. He was so pleased that our team was awarded a private concert. We also received a beautiful testimonial from the homeowner. 

Testimonial

I have a 115-year-old house with the original boiler to heat it with. When it stopped working, my plumber told me that I would need a Class A gas fitter and recommended Harbour Energy Systems. Mr. Bains came over and spent over 4 hours working on it, replacing the main valve assembly, then fine-tuning the unit to burn with maximum efficiency. His knowledge and experience with this old-fashioned technology is astounding. He possesses a body of knowledge that is fast disappearing as century-old boilers are disappearing from our homes. If you have an old boiler needing repair, Mr. Bains is your man. M.D. East Van.

– Michael Dunn (Google Reviews)

Affordable Boiler Repair in Vancouver

For affordable boiler repair in Vancouver, Harbour Energy offers full-service boiler repair, including for antique models, at Vancouver’s most competitive prices. For new builds, contact us to learn which boiler installation is right for your home. After more than 15 years in business, we’re a team that takes great pride in our work and the comfort it brings to families across Metro Vancouver.

We’re on call 24/7. Reach out at 604-272-7272 or through our website contact form.