A hundred-year-old furnace 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, and also offer industrial-level services. After thirty 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 was looking for someone to help fix the boiler that heated his home. The model in question, an Arco boiler, patented in 1904 and installed when the house was built in 1912. The boiler initially fired on coal, had been converted to natural gas post World War Two, around the time gas came to Vancouver. The homeowner had contacted multiple HVAC contractors in Vancouver. Most said upgrading the system was unavoidable. Most couldn’t figure out how the system worked and refused to consider repairs until he reached out to Harbour Energy. 

Repairing an Antique Boiler

Even as a team with over twenty years of experience providing boiler installation and boiler repair in Vancouver, this was one of the most interesting and unique systems we’ve encountered. The boiler was patented in 1904 and works on gravity circulation to warm the home–no pumps needed.

The problem was that the boiler wasn’t staying lit. The flame was weak and randomly flickered out. Our technicians were able to diagnose the problem. After replacing the gas control valve and making gas pressure adjustments and also combustion air flow adjustments, the flame was working beautifully. It’s likely this boiler will function for another 100 years.

It was a happy ending for the homeowner who makes custom-made guitars. He was so pleased that our team was awarded with a little 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. 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 and Surrounding Areas

For affordable boiler repair in Vancouver, Harbour Energy offers full-service HVAC repairs, even on older models at Vancouver’s most competitive prices. For new builds, contact us to learn which boiler installation is right for your home. After almost 20 years in business, we’re a team that takes great pride in our work and the comfort it brings to families across Greater Vancouver.

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