Switching to gas. New boiler or conversion?

GerryK

I am going to switch my steam boiler to natural gas and am wondering about converting my current oil boiler (1994 WM Gold 65,000 btu that also does baseboard hot water duty on third floor addition) or buying a new one. There seems to be quite the cost differential. How much longer should I expect out of this boiler? Also,not sure about chimney, so here is what I would like advice on please:

-Replace?

-If replacing, recommendations for chimney vented models and direct vent



Thanks!!

JStar

1994

18 years is maybe a little too old to expect much more out of that boiler. You could take your chances, but it's a better investment to replace the whole boiler.



Where are you located?



You have many different options for a new boiler. The general agreement here, is to use a wet base boiler with a natural gas burner. You could see as much as 87% efficiency that way. A liner would most likely be required. The most important part....the installers!