Trusted Boiler Services in Des Moines, IA

In Des Moines, IA and surrounding areas, we rely on the heating system more often than not. With temperatures frequently dipping into the teens and below, a powerful, reliable, and efficient heater is a necessity. A boiler makes the perfect choice. Hydronic heating offers amazing versatility, cleaner indoor air quality, and very gentle, even comfort. These workhorses of the industry operate quietly and with few moving parts, tend to outlast comparable options. We offer trusted Weil-Mclain and Rinnai boiler installations!

Professional Boiler System Repairs & Service

Are you interested in the many benefits and opportunities provided by boiler heating? From completely concealed radiant floor heating to the slim profile of baseboards or radiators, the set up caters to the specifics of your home and includes the benefits of zoned control. There’s no drafts or cold spots, less stratification, and no concerns with overly dry air. For the very best in boiler systems, call on the professionals from Holt Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical.

Count on our team for your boiler installations & replacements!

Like the boilers we install, Holt Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical continues to prove our staying power. We’ve been around since 1947, assisting homeowners across Des Moines, Des Moines, Clive, Urbandale, Norwalk, and Johnston, IA. Our NATE-certified professionals are a cut above the rest, providing skilled installation, replacements, repairs, and maintenance of all makes and models of boilers. For questions, concerns, and perfect performance from your boiler … Let Holt Handle That.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Boiler Services

What is a boiler and how does it heat my home?

A boiler is a heating system that warms water and distributes that heat throughout your home using radiators, baseboard heaters, or radiant floor systems. Unlike forced-air furnaces, boilers don’t blow air — they circulate hot water or steam through pipes, delivering consistent, even warmth. Many Des Moines homeowners prefer boilers for their quiet operation and the comfortable, draft-free heat they provide during Iowa’s cold winters.

How do I know if my boiler needs repair or replacement?

There are several warning signs that your boiler may need professional attention. Watch for any of the following:

Unusual noises such as banging, whistling, or clunking
Uneven heating or cold spots throughout your home
Rising energy bills without a change in usage
Visible leaks or corrosion around the unit
A boiler that is 15 years or older and requiring frequent repairs

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, contact Holt Plumbing & Heating to schedule a diagnostic visit. Our technicians can assess whether a repair or full replacement is the most cost-effective path forward.

How often should a boiler be serviced?

Boilers should be inspected and serviced at least once a year — ideally before Iowa’s heating season begins in the fall. Annual maintenance keeps the system running efficiently, extends its lifespan, and helps identify small problems before they become costly breakdowns. During a tune-up, Holt’s technicians will check pressure levels, test safety controls, inspect the heat exchanger, and ensure the system is operating safely and at peak performance.

What types of boilers does Holt Plumbing & Heating service?

Holt services a full range of residential and light commercial boilers, including gas boilers, oil boilers, electric boilers, and high-efficiency condensing boilers. Whether you have an older cast-iron system that’s been heating your home for decades or a newer high-efficiency unit, our team has the training and experience to keep it running reliably. We work on all major brands and can help you choose the right replacement if your current unit is beyond repair.

Is a boiler more energy-efficient than a furnace?

Modern high-efficiency boilers can be an excellent choice for energy savings, particularly in climates like Des Moines where winters are long and cold. Condensing boilers, for example, can achieve efficiency ratings of 90% or higher. Because boiler heat is radiant rather than forced-air, there’s also less heat loss through ductwork. That said, the right system for your home depends on your existing setup, fuel availability, and comfort goals. Holt’s team can walk you through the options and help you make an informed decision.

"I highly recommend Holt! I needed my water heater replaced, and they came out and took the time to discuss all of my options and to make sure that I fully understood everything about the project. They did quality work, with all of the plumbing in traditional copper. That was important to me because I didn't want any of that PEX in my home! My entire basement looks cleaner and tidier because of the work they did! I was also very impressed that they didn't talk down to me as a woman. I like to do my own appliance maintenance and repairs when possible, and they respected my desire to understand everything about the installation and the prospective maintenance into the future."

Karen

"Holt heating and air conditioning installed our heating and air conditioning system and now we have the maintenance program with them. All the different people we'd have had out to do the semi annual maintenance have been courteous and professional in there attire and speaking to us. I would use them for other services in a heartbeat."

Pam

"Looking for a no fluff, no BS review of Holt? I got you... Over the past 15 years I've been a home owner, We've tried more companies that I could count. Lots of shady businesses out there... We were coming of a brand new HVAC installation just two years ago and the previous company completely botched it. It had problems within a month of installation and they were completely MIA. We ran it as long as we could to try and recoup the some cost, but it was a constant worry. Decided to give Holt a chance and we're so glad we did! Yes, they were more expensive, but it's the classic "you get what you pay for". 100% worth it! It's so hard to find a company that has the perfect mix of quality, punctuality, and honesty and Holt nails it. I genuinely appreciate their level of service and will pay a bit more to have someone I have the utmost confidence in doing the right thing. You should definitely give them a look if you need heating, cooling, or plumbing work."

Michael N.

"We had never heard of Holt Heating and Plumbing until today. We had an emergency and needed service immediately and Holt was available. Israel was our technician and he was amazing! They will have our business for years to come! Thanks Israel and Holt!"

Rhonda

"The best experience you could ever ask for. Nick is very skilled and knowledgeable about his industry. We were in a challenging situation and Holt and Nick were there to help us. Nick is very professional, extremely polite and friendly and very skilled. Thank you all so very much"

Victoria A.