Commercial Weil-McLain model 80 Steam , convert to gas, replace or repair????

Dmsands

I have a 10 year old Weil-McLain model 80 which developed a leak in one of the sections , it wasn't being maintained properly by an oil company, Regardless I have a steam boiler that was welded 2017 an did survive last winter. This is an investment property which I'm considering selling within the next few years. My dilemma is whether to replace 3 sections in the existing Boiler.? Leave as is, pray holds up and doesn't leak? Convert the existing boiler from oil to gas save money and better selling point?( I would have to line the chimney and remove 500 gallon tank from basement.) Replace the Steam oil burner to a gas furnace? I have not received any quotes on this as of yet.

any suggestions appreciated

Fred

If you already had a leak in one section and anticipate that three sections probably need to be replaced, the other sections aren't far behind. I wouldn't spend any money converting it to gas. You can try to limp along another winter or two with it as is but be aware that it will likely fail/leak during the winter when it is needed and you will be rushed to get it replaced. Replacement is inevitable, replace it and be done with it.

Dmsands

The leak was only in one section in the back, they said they would need to change the 3, I would have to ask them to clarify why 3, I haven't received an estimate I'm assuming they don't want the job. Thank you for your advice, replacing with another steam boiler or convert to gas furnace?

New England SteamWorks

How old is the boiler, and where are you located?

Fred

Dmsands said:

The leak was only in one section in the back, they said they would need to change the 3, I would have to ask them to clarify why 3, I haven't received an estimate I'm assuming they don't want the job. Thank you for your advice, replacing with another steam boiler or convert to gas furnace?

Keep the Steam!
@New England SteamWorks , he says it's 10 years old.

Steamhead

Those 80-series boilers usually hold up well. If yours has leaked after 10 years, perhaps the system is losing water from bad vents, underground return leaks, etc.

The 80 series is available with oil or gas burners, so staying with that model will not keep you from switching to gas. Most buyers prefer gas anyway- in the Baltimore area, oil heat is a serious drawback when it's time to sell.

Which model 80 series boiler (first one or two digits are for the number of sections, followed by 80- 480 would be a 4-section, etc)? Where are you located?