outdoor reset

Jim_83

I was thinking of using CI baseboard for even heat.

Since ODR reduces the swings in temperature, can copper fin tubing be used instead of CI baseboard to achieve even heat? Would I notice any differences in comfort?

Jim_83

I’m planning on replacing my boiler and it sounds like outdoor reset is a feature that can improve the fuel efficiency of the heating system. I read that with outdoor reset, the circulators are on once the heating season starts until the end of the heating season. Is this the proper operation with outdoor reset?
The boiler is not a mod/con.

If it’s true, how does it affect the electric bill and the life of the circulators?
I’m thinking the increase in fuel efficiency is offset by the larger electric bill and increased maintenance of the circulators since they are running all the time.

I’m looking at total cost to operate the system (fuel, electric bill, replacing circulators more often since they are running all the time). Is outdoor reset the way to go to lower the total operating cost?

Timco

Sounds like you are refering to continuous flow. ODR does not need this. Most circs only run on a call for heat from their zone. The ODR dictates the water temp based on outside temp, and better systems use indoor temp feedback to better achieve temp with the minimum water temp needed...

Tim

Derheatmeister

ODR/Const. flow

ODR/Modcon/Constable Flow combined with the None electric zone valves(TRV'S) are my preferred may of doing the job. Indoor feed back can sometimes if not placed in the proper Location and being influenced by aux heat sources i.e Sun,Fireplaces,lots of guest become a problem!.. These systems that we have been installing for decades are very reliable require less replacements of parts( i.e. Zone valves)the temperature is very constant (+-1Farenheit,Did some data logging) The overall efficiency of systems that are designed properly are very good!

Rich L.

Yes and No

Outdoor reset will require your circulators to operate for longer periods of time. As stated below this will likley not result in constant circulation. How much will it affect your power bill, hard to say. If you take the average modern small residential circulator, it's similar to operating a 60 watt light bulb. I would think you wouldn't notice much difference unless you are zoning by circs and have many, many zones.

You will however likley have a noticeable reduction in your gas or oil bill. Because you have a non-condensing boiler you still have to maintain at least 140 degrees back to it. Not knowing what you have for a delivery system you could add a primary secondary like the Taco RMB for boiler protection and still accomplish full ODR. Or depending on how old your boiler is, upgrade to a mod-con and really see some substantial gains in efficiency.

Lastly and certainly not least, your comfort level will increase. Temperature swings should become a thing of the past. Now with ODR you're adding just enough heat to offset the heat loss of the structure.

I tell my friends and customers, I'm not selling and you're not buying heating and AC, You're buying comfort for yourself and your family. Spend a little more and increase your comfort, pretty good return on investment as far as I'm concerned!

Good luck, Rich L