Dunkirk PSB Steam Boiler Installation in Chicago
Cast iron steam boiler — up to 82.7% AFUE, floor standing, one-pipe and two-pipe steam. Built for Chicago's vintage steam heating systems.
Don't 'FREEZE' — Call D's!
Boiler Type
Cast Iron Steam Boiler
AFUE Efficiency
Up to 82.7% AFUE
Fuel Type
Natural Gas
Heat Exchanger
Cast Iron Sections
Application
Residential Steam Heating
Venting Type
Category I / B-Vent (Chimney)
Installation Type
Floor Standing
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Cast Iron Steam Boiler for Chicago's Vintage Homes
The Dunkirk PSB is a floor-standing cast iron steam boiler engineered for Chicago's older one-pipe and two-pipe steam heating systems. Purpose-built for greystones, bungalows, and two-flats with existing steam radiator distribution, the PSB delivers reliable steam heat without requiring costly system conversion. Cast iron construction provides exceptional heat retention, thermal mass, and corrosion resistance — the foundation of a steam heating system built to last decades.
Chicago's pre-war housing stock relies heavily on steam heating systems. These systems — with their cast iron radiators, steam pipes, and gravity-fed distribution — require a boiler specifically designed for steam generation. The PSB's atmospheric combustion design is proven, low-maintenance, and compatible with existing chimney venting, making it an ideal direct replacement for aging steam boilers in Chicago's vintage homes.
Steam heating is a proven, comfortable, and durable heating method. When properly maintained, a steam system provides even, radiant heat that many Chicago homeowners prefer over forced-air systems. The key to a well-functioning steam system is a properly sized, correctly installed boiler. D's Air & Heating has extensive experience with Chicago's steam heating systems and will ensure your new PSB is properly sized and configured for your specific system.
Dunkirk backs the PSB with a 20-year non-prorated Cast-to-Last warranty on the heat exchanger. This is one of the strongest steam boiler warranties available — and it's non-prorated, meaning the full warranty value applies throughout the entire 20-year period.
Key Features
Cast Iron Heat Exchanger
Heavy-duty cast iron sections deliver decades of reliable steam generation and superior corrosion resistance for Chicago vintage homes.
20-Year Non-Prorated Warranty
Dunkirk's Cast-to-Last warranty covers the heat exchanger for 20 years, non-prorated — one of the strongest steam boiler warranties available.
One-Pipe & Two-Pipe Compatible
The PSB works with both one-pipe and two-pipe steam distribution systems — no system conversion required for Chicago greystones and bungalows.
Steam Generation
Designed specifically for steam heating — proper steam chest sizing, Hartford loop connection, and steam pressure controls for reliable operation.
Chicago Housing Compatible
Floor-standing design fits Chicago basement and utility-room installations. Direct replacement for aging steam boilers in vintage Chicago homes.
Atmospheric Combustion
Proven atmospheric burner design compatible with existing chimney venting — no costly venting upgrades required for most Chicago homes.
Technical Specifications
| Model | PSB |
| Boiler Type | Gas Fired Cast Iron Steam Boiler |
| AFUE | Up to 82.7% |
| Fuel | Natural Gas |
| Installation | Floor Standing |
| Application | Residential Steam Heating |
| Heat Exchanger | Cast Iron Sections |
| Venting | Category I / B-Vent |
| Steam Systems | One-Pipe & Two-Pipe Compatible |
| Warranty | 20-Year Non-Prorated (Cast-to-Last) |
What's Included in the Installation
Trusted American Boiler Technology
Dunkirk has been manufacturing dependable heating equipment in Dunkirk, New York since 1928. For nearly a century, Dunkirk has built a reputation for durable cast iron construction, reliable atmospheric combustion, and heating systems that stand the test of time. The PSB cast iron steam boiler is a direct expression of that tradition — a proven, time-tested design that Chicago homeowners and contractors have trusted for decades.
The PSB is purpose-built for Chicago's steam heating heritage. Chicago's pre-war housing stock — greystones, bungalows, two-flats — relies on steam heating systems with cast iron radiators and gravity-fed distribution. These systems require a boiler specifically designed for steam generation, with proper steam chest sizing, Hartford loop connection, and steam pressure controls. The PSB delivers all of these requirements in a proven, reliable package.
Cast iron construction is the foundation of the PSB's durability. The heavy-duty cast iron sections provide exceptional heat retention and thermal mass, maintaining consistent steam pressure even during the coldest Chicago nights. Cast iron resists corrosion and thermal stress, contributing to a service life that can exceed 30 years with proper annual maintenance. Dunkirk backs this durability with a 20-year non-prorated Cast-to-Last warranty on the heat exchanger.
The PSB's floor-standing design and Category I venting make it compatible with existing chimney venting in Chicago's older homes — eliminating the need for costly venting upgrades. The atmospheric combustion design is proven, low-maintenance, and reliable. For Chicago homeowners with existing steam radiator systems, the PSB is a direct replacement that works with your existing distribution system — no system conversion required.
Why Choose D's Air & Heating, Inc.
D's Air & Heating, Inc. has been providing professional boiler installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance services throughout Chicago since 2009. Founded by Darryl Q. Joyner Sr., D's Air & Heating has built a reputation for honest recommendations, quality workmanship, and professional customer service that Chicago homeowners trust.
Steam boiler installation requires specialized knowledge and experience. Unlike hot water boilers, steam systems have unique requirements — proper steam chest sizing, Hartford loop configuration, steam pressure settings, and system balancing. D's Air & Heating has extensive experience with Chicago's steam heating systems and understands the specific requirements of one-pipe and two-pipe steam distribution.
Every steam boiler installation includes proper load calculations, startup procedures, safety verification, pressure testing, and customer training so you understand your new system. We pull all required City of Chicago permits, handle disposal of your old equipment, and leave your mechanical room clean.
D's Air & Heating operates without contracts and without gimmicks. We provide transparent, upfront pricing before any work begins. When you call for a free estimate, you receive an honest assessment of your heating needs and a clear price — no surprises, no hidden fees.
Common Applications
What Chicago Customers Say
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9/5 Customer Satisfaction
"We have a greystone with a one-pipe steam system and D's Air knew exactly what we needed. They installed the Dunkirk PSB and our radiators heat evenly for the first time in years. Professional installation and they handled all the permits."
George M.
Humboldt Park, Chicago
"Our old steam boiler finally gave out after 35 years. D's Air came out quickly, diagnosed the problem, and installed the new Dunkirk PSB within two days. The steam system works perfectly and the house is warm again. Excellent service."
Dorothy K.
Logan Square, Chicago
"D's Air replaced our steam boiler in our two-flat and both units heat evenly now. They understood our two-pipe steam system and configured the new PSB correctly. Very professional and fair pricing."
Frank R.
Bridgeport, Chicago
"I was worried about replacing our steam boiler because the system is old and complex. D's Air explained everything clearly, installed the Dunkirk PSB, and the system works better than it has in years. Highly recommend."
Helen T.
Pilsen, Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Dunkirk PSB steam boiler installation take?
Most PSB steam boiler replacements are completed in one to two days. Steam system installations require careful attention to piping, pressure settings, and system balancing. D's Air & Heating minimizes disruption throughout the process.
How efficient is the Dunkirk PSB?
The PSB operates at up to 82.7% AFUE. Steam boilers are inherently less efficient than hot water boilers due to the energy required to generate steam, but the PSB delivers reliable, consistent steam heat for Chicago vintage homes without requiring system conversion.
Is financing available for a PSB installation?
Yes. D's Air & Heating offers financing options for qualified customers. Ask about current financing programs when you call for your free estimate.
How often should a steam boiler be serviced?
Annual maintenance is recommended before each heating season. Steam boiler service includes cleaning the heat exchanger, inspecting the burners and controls, checking safety devices, testing the low-water cutoff, and verifying steam pressure settings.
What warranty comes with the Dunkirk PSB?
The PSB includes Dunkirk's Cast-to-Last 20-year non-prorated limited warranty on the heat exchanger.
Can the PSB replace my existing steam boiler without converting the system?
Yes. The PSB is designed as a direct replacement for existing steam boilers. It works with both one-pipe and two-pipe steam distribution systems — no system conversion required. Your existing steam pipes and radiators remain in place.
Does D's Air & Heating pull permits for steam boiler installations?
Yes. D's Air & Heating pulls all required City of Chicago permits for every boiler installation. Permit processing is included in the installation price.
Why does my steam boiler need to be replaced?
Steam boilers typically last 20-30 years. Signs that replacement is needed include frequent repairs, uneven heat distribution, excessive cycling, water leaks, or a boiler that can no longer maintain proper steam pressure. D's Air will diagnose your system and recommend repair or replacement based on the condition of your equipment.
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Why Chicago Homeowners Trust D's Air & Heating
Licensed & Insured
IL License #2183457
Serving Chicago
Since 2009
Authorized Dealer
Multiple Brands
No Contracts
Ever — Guaranteed
Permit Pulled
Every Installation
Professional Standards
Code-Compliant Work
Why Choose D's Air & Heating, Inc.?
Chicago's trusted HVAC company since 2009 — licensed, insured, and committed to honest workmanship on every job.
Experience Since 2009
D's Air & Heating has served Chicago homeowners and businesses since 2009. Over 15 years of local HVAC experience means we've seen every type of system, every Chicago building configuration, and every challenge the city's climate presents.
Manufacturer-Trained Technicians
Our technicians receive ongoing manufacturer training and certification. We install Lennox, Goodman, Amana, Daikin, Sinclair, Weil-McLain, Peerless, and other leading brands — and we know each system inside and out.
Licensed, Insured & Permitted
D's Air & Heating holds Illinois HVAC License #2183457 and carries full liability insurance. We pull City of Chicago permits on every installation — protecting you legally and ensuring the work meets code.
Honest Recommendations
We tell you what you need — not what generates the highest invoice. If your system can be repaired cost-effectively, we'll say so. If replacement makes more sense, we'll explain exactly why. No pressure, no upselling.
Local Chicago Expertise
We know Chicago's housing stock — two-flats, greystones, bungalows, vintage buildings with steam heat, modern construction with forced air. We size and install equipment for the specific demands of Chicago homes and Chicago winters.
Long-Term Customer Support
Our relationship doesn't end at installation. We register your equipment for warranty, remain available for follow-up questions, and provide ongoing maintenance to keep your system running at peak efficiency for years.
Steam Boiler Expertise — What Chicago Building Owners Should Know
How a Steam Heating System Works
A steam boiler heats water to 212°F, producing steam that rises naturally through supply pipes to cast-iron radiators throughout the building. As the steam gives up its heat, it condenses back to water and returns to the boiler by gravity. One-pipe systems use the same pipe for both steam supply and condensate return. Two-pipe systems use separate supply and return lines, allowing better control and zoning.
The Hartford Loop — Why It Matters
The Hartford Loop is a critical safety piping arrangement on steam boilers. It prevents the boiler from losing its water level if a return pipe develops a leak. Without a properly installed Hartford Loop, a pipe failure can drain the boiler dry, causing catastrophic damage. D's Air installs the Hartford Loop correctly on every steam boiler installation.
Steam Boiler Sizing — EDR Calculations
Steam boilers are sized by Equivalent Direct Radiation (EDR) — the total radiation capacity of all the radiators in the building. The boiler must be sized to match the connected radiation, not the building's heat loss. An oversized steam boiler causes water hammer, wet steam, and rapid cycling. D's Air measures EDR on every steam boiler installation.
Water Quality and Treatment
Steam boiler water quality directly affects system performance and longevity. Impurities cause foaming, which produces wet steam and water hammer. Proper pH balance prevents corrosion of the boiler sections and pipes. D's Air tests water quality and recommends treatment on every steam boiler installation and service call.
Common Steam System Problems
The most frequent steam system issues in Chicago buildings: water hammer (banging pipes — usually caused by wet steam, improper pitch, or failed steam traps), uneven heat between floors (failed vents or traps), boiler cycling on low water (LWCO trips — check water level and return lines), and radiators that won't heat (air-bound — replace the air vent).
What to Expect From Your D's Air Steam Boiler Service
System Assessment
We inspect the boiler, near-boiler piping, Hartford Loop, vents, traps, and radiators before recommending any work.
EDR Measurement
For new installations, we measure every radiator in the building to size the replacement boiler correctly.
Written Estimate
You receive a complete written estimate covering equipment, labor, piping, and permits before any work begins.
Installation
Our crew installs the new boiler with proper near-boiler piping, Hartford Loop, and all safety controls.
Startup & Testing
We fill the system, fire the boiler, verify steam pressure, check all vents and traps, and confirm heat to every radiator.
Customer Training
We explain how to check the water level, what the pressuretrol does, and what maintenance is needed annually.
D's Air Steam Boiler Standards — Every Installation
- EDR calculation — boiler sized to match connected radiation
- Hartford Loop installed per industry standard
- Near-boiler piping per manufacturer specifications
- Equalizer pipe properly sized and connected
- Low-water cutoff tested and verified
- Pressuretrol set to correct operating pressure (typically 0.5–2 PSI)
- All steam vents and traps inspected and replaced as needed
- Water quality tested — treatment recommended if needed
- Gas pressure test and combustion analysis at startup
- City of Chicago permit pulled on every installation
What Our Customers Say
Based on Google Reviews — D's Air & Heating, Inc.
Marcus T.
Furnace Replacement
"D's Air & Heating did an outstanding job replacing my furnace. Darryl was professional, on time, and explained everything clearly. The installation was clean and the system works perfectly. Highly recommend."
Latoya W.
Boiler Repair
"Called D's Air when my boiler stopped working in January. They came out the same day, diagnosed the problem quickly, and had it running again within hours. Fair pricing and excellent service."
James R.
AC Installation
"Installed a new central AC system for us this summer. The crew was respectful of our home, cleaned up after themselves, and the system runs quietly and efficiently. Very satisfied."
Ready to Work With Chicago's Trusted HVAC Company?
D's Air & Heating, Inc. — Serving Chicago Since 2009. Licensed, Insured, No Contracts.