Posted by john on April 02, 2001 at 15:56:12:
In Reply to: Re: replacement boiler posted by Phil on March 30, 2001 at 15:00:05:
: : I have a Pennco Natural gas boiler that is approx 20 years old. Input BTU per Hr = 150k, Heating Capacity BTU per Hr = 118k heating a 2800 sq ft home. This unit is leaking water from the cast iron heating exchange unit. I have requested two estimates and this is what I have thus far:
: : 1st Estimate: recommends a Pennco with an 175k input btu per hr system, recommends replacing the 3 TACO zone valves and for the 2nd floor room (the only one) that is approx 3degrees lower than the rest of the 2nd flr., installing a high energy 18' baseboard.
: : 2nd Estimate: recommends a Weil-McLain CG-5 Input BTU / Hr = 140k, capacity = 117k. For the room that is approx 3 degrees colder he recommends insulating better to see if that works.
: : Which unit should I go with?
: If the upstairs room is on a zone, and the hot water is reaching the zone, then the heat lose from the room is greater than the heat capacity of the radiator. If inspection reveals insufficient insulation, caulking, thermo windows, etc. then these must be fixed, otherwise, additional radiation must occur. This can be by a more energy efficient baseboard or adding more baseboard to the room if there is space.
: Meanwhile, these furnaces are rated at about 80% efficiency. You could save another 10% in gas cost if you ordered a boiler at >85%.