What is the primary function of a boiler?

The primary function of a boiler is to supply hot water or steam, which is essential for various heating applications in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Boilers achieve this by heating water through the combustion of fuel or the use of electricity, and they can produce either hot water or steam depending on the system's design and intended use.

When water is heated to a high temperature, it becomes steam, which can be circulated through pipes to radiators, baseboards, or other heating devices to warm indoor spaces. Conversely, hot water systems deliver heated water directly to radiators or other heat exchangers for the same purpose. This capability makes boilers a critical component of hydronic heating systems and various processes requiring heat energy.

Other options, such as heating air, drying laundry, or filtering indoor air, while they may involve heating systems, do not reflect the primary and specific function of a boiler. The distinction is important for understanding how various heating systems operate, allowing for better selection and maintenance in practical applications.