Zone valves vs circulators on secondary loop

angel fernandez-homeowner

Dear Mr. Holohan,

I built a log home in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. A contractor suggested a hot air furnace, very inefficient but worked for 10 years, I decided to change to a hot water boiler, much more comfortable even heat. After looking for a contractor to install it, I received an estimate, but after the installation I would be on my own,he would not service it. I decided to do the work myself, it came out great and it has worked for 2 winters. After reading your book PUMPING AWAY, I found that my pump is on the wrong side.

My questions are the following:

1) Can improve the system by moving the pump to the supply side of the boiler?
2) I also have a wood burner and when it is on the boiler does not kick in. When the hot water heater ( Amtrol indirect fired) calls for heat the return water is too cold, Am I risking damage to the boiler by returning cooler water to it?
3) Would the use of a primary and secondary loop help this stiatuation.
4) I currently have four Zones controlled by Zone valves. CAN I USE ZONE VALVES in the second loop instead of pumps? This summer I will like to correct my installation. So far it is working without problems, but I know it's wrong but I don't want to risk damaging the boiler.

Any suggestion will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.