I have a boiler with 5 heating zones that distribute heat by circulating hot water to the baseboards. Would it be a good idea to shut off the well pump and drain the well tank in case the power goes out and the pipes freeze. This way I won't have a broken pipe being fed water when the power comes back on. Will the boiler still function without pressure from the supply side?
Mike
Mike, WELCOME.
You ask, "Will the boiler still function without pressure from the supply side?"
I would think so so long as there's no pressure drop.
I ask, Will your boiler work with the power off? Will that system freeze without heat?
I would think you need a backup system to assure you are covered. Having friends helping to fire up the backup can be handy.
As I posted last year, "When we lived in Cadillac, MI, I treated the house as though everything would freeze while we were gone... Seems as though while you're away, electric goes out or that's when lines break... always something!
So, I suggest you treat for everything freezing, just to have peace of mind. Plants go to someone else. Drain all water including the water tank(s) and treat traps and commodes. Set heat to minimum. That way, if you lose heat you're covered. To me it's worth the effort, just to know we aren't flooded or froze up while we're off somewhere enjoying life."