Prioritize these boiler efficiency upgrades in your apartment building to lower winter heating bills - by Simon Soloff

Winter energy costs are rising faster than many multifamily dwelling operating budgets can absorb. Cold snaps, extended heating cycles, and inefficiencies in older boiler systems can lead to skyrocketing utility bills, frustrated tenants, and frequent emergency service calls. For property managers, managing heating costs is essential for controlling the bottom line, ensuring tenant comfort, preventing system failures, and maintaining a building’s reputation for reliability.

As president and co-founder of EnTech, a company focused on smart energy solutions for multifamily dwellings, I’ve seen firsthand how boiler efficiency plays a pivotal role in this equation. A well-maintained, optimized boiler system reduces fuel consumption, minimizes costly mid-winter breakdowns, and keeps apartments consistently warm. Investing in efficiency upgrades now can yield immediate cost savings and long-term operational benefits, making it a top priority for property managers as the cold months approach.

Assessing Your Current Boiler System

Before implementing any upgrades, it’s essential to understand the current state of your apartment building’s boiler system. A pre-winter inspection is critical and can reveal hidden inefficiencies that contribute to high energy bills. Key performance indicators to monitor include boiler pressure, temperature differentials, cycling frequency, and overall fuel usage.

For example, a boiler that cycles on and off too frequently may be oversized for the building’s demand or have underlying issues such as air in the system or valve malfunctions. On the other hand, low pressure or uneven heating across units can indicate circulation problems. While some minor checks can be conducted by property staff, a licensed HVAC or boiler technician should perform a full efficiency assessment annually. A professional evaluation will ensure that potential problems are addressed before they escalate into expensive emergencies.

High-Impact Efficiency Upgrades

Upgrading your apartment building’s boiler system with targeted efficiency improvements can deliver significant energy savings and more consistent heating. Here are high-impact upgrades that will help property managers reduce costs, improve tenant comfort, and prevent costly winter system failures.

Upgrade to a Smart Boiler System 

Modern smart boiler systems go beyond basic programmable controls, as they integrate advanced sensors, adaptive algorithms, and connectivity with building management systems (BMS). These upgrades allow the boiler to respond automatically to outdoor temperature changes, occupancy patterns, and real-time energy demand. By optimizing run times and heat distribution, smart systems reduce energy waste, lower operating costs, and maintain consistent comfort throughout the building. 

In addition, property managers can monitor performance remotely, receive automated alerts for anomalies, and make data-driven adjustments to prevent costly breakdowns during peak winter periods.

Burner Tuning and Combustion Optimization

Properly tuned burners maximize fuel efficiency by ensuring the correct air-to-fuel ratio. An optimized burner can reduce fuel consumption by 5-15% while improving system reliability. If you are wondering if your burner is overdue for an adjustment, look out for yellow or irregular flame patterns, soot accumulation, and unusual noises during operation. One of the most effective ways to improve efficiency without a major equipment investment is to schedule an annual burner tuning with a qualified technician.

Add or Upgrade Boiler Insulation

Insulating the boiler jacket, valves, and exposed pipes in mechanical rooms can significantly reduce heat loss. Even small improvements in insulation prevent wasted energy and help maintain a more consistent temperature throughout the building. This upgrade is relatively low-cost but can have a noticeable impact on both efficiency and tenant comfort.

Implement Zoning or Balancing System Upgrades

Apartment buildings often suffer from uneven heating, where some units are too hot while others remain cold. Installing balancing valves, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), or multi-zone controls will help ensure that heat is distributed efficiently to every unit. Zoning upgrades not only improve tenant comfort but also reduce energy waste, as the boiler doesn’t need to overcompensate to heat under-served areas.

Upgrade Circulator Pumps to ECM Technology

Modern circulator pumps equipped with electronically commutated motors (ECMs) consume less electricity and provide more precise water flow than traditional water pumps. This technology improves system responsiveness and reduces operational costs, particularly in buildings with multiple zones or variable heating demand.

Low-Cost, Quick-Fix Efficiency Improvements

Not all efficiency improvements require major equipment changes. Property managers can implement low-cost measures that deliver immediate benefits, such as bleeding radiators to remove trapped air and checking for steam leaks, water loss, or irregular pressure readings. Other low-cost improvements are replacing worn gaskets, valves, and air vents, and cleaning filters and strainers to ensure proper water circulation. These simple actions help prevent energy waste and reduce the likelihood of emergency service calls during peak winter demand.

Monitoring Tools That Deliver Long-Term Savings

Investing in monitoring tools provides ongoing visibility into boiler performance. Real-time monitoring and remote diagnostics can alert property managers to inefficiencies or malfunctions before they escalate. For example, fuel usage tracking, temperature sensors, and automated reporting allow for proactive maintenance that helps prevent costly repairs and ensure consistent tenant comfort throughout the winter.

Tenant Engagement: Small Changes That Reduce Energy Waste

Tenant behavior can influence building-wide heating efficiency. Encourage residents to report cold or overheated units promptly, as it will allow you to address issues quickly. Educating tenants on proper thermostat usage, not blocking radiators, and following winter energy-saving guidelines will also further support system efficiency. Establishing clear communication channels for winter heating updates ensures residents are informed and cooperative, minimizing unnecessary energy consumption.

Take Action Early to Maximize Winter Efficiency!

For apartment property managers, winter is a high-stakes season where boiler efficiency directly affects costs, tenant satisfaction, and operational reliability. By assessing the current system, implementing high-impact upgrades, performing low-cost maintenance, and engaging tenants, you can achieve substantial energy savings and prevent mid-winter emergencies. Scheduling a full boiler assessment and taking proactive steps early in the season will also ensure your building remains warm, comfortable, and cost-effective throughout the coldest months.

Simon Soloff is the president and co-founder of EnTech.