Get it in writing?

Erich_3

You have been given some very good advice. You should also measure the EDR of your present radiators so that you can properly size your new boiler. What make and model boiler is presently installed? What is the fuel type? Any installer that will not sign a contract which states that the boiler shall be piped according to the manufacturers instructions is one that you need to stay away from. Where are you located? There may be a steam expert near you.

Patrick North

Get it in writing?

It's time to replace my one pipe steam boiler (this Spring- it's no emergency), and I'm a little less than confident in my local options for an installer. It seems the biggest (most common?) thing that can go wrong here is lousy near boiler piping. Is it out of line to ask for a near boiler piping diagram PRIOR to giving the green light to work? If not, what level of detail?
Thanks all,
Patrick

ed wallace

getting it in writing

no its not a bad idea to get the installer to aree to install the boiler according to the manufacterers directions get him to agree to use black iron where needed

Derheatmeister

And an service plan

You can also get some references and maybe do a Field trip on some of the Contractors installs. Also check the BBB

Also keep in mind that the equipment will need servicing/ support.

Check parts availability.

It is a good idea to establish a "Relationship" with your Heating contractor as in a yearly visit to service the equipment.

an old wrench puller

Look around.

You might find a designer, engineer, factory rep, clerk of the works, project manager etc, with steam experience that could properly bid out the job and over see the instillation and start up. It will add a little to the cost....but... might be worth it in the long run.

Charlie from wmass

We also make sure the customer sees the manufacturers piping diagram and knows where the I&O manual is located for future service. Insist on a proper EDR of your system and for iron pipe. Also make sure the chimney and breeching are addressed in any quotes. Where are you located?

Unknown

If you haven't got them already, get Dan's books. (See "A Steamy Deal" at the bottom of this page) Read "We Got Steam Heat" first and then "The Lost Art of Steam Heating".
I just wish I had known about them before I replaced my boiler as it would have saved me a LOT of frustration and money. You also want to decide on the boiler you want to use and get the I&O manual (most manufacturer's have them on their websites)and study that. As there are a lot of steam experts on this site you might want to see if there is one local to you and contact them.

Patrick North

Yep...

I've read Dan's books, and that's part of the problem- now I have an idea of where some of the local installers are lacking. At least two have looked at me like I had a third eye when I said the words "drop header." One tried to tell me there was no such thing as a residential Vaporstat.
We're in central PA, beautiful downtown Bellefonte. No one nearby listed on "Find a Professional."
Thanks all!
Patrick