GB 142 service

kcopp

When doing a 5 yr service on a GB 142 what parts typically does one need to replace? Customer called me today and needs a cleaning... never been done in 5 years.

EdTheHeaterMan

I have installed several and found that the service is fairly easy. there are "Rubber" gaskets that are reusable. You should be able to clean the flame sensor. You may need to replace it if the corrosion from combustion has gone too far.
Finally, the condensate trap is a little difficult to remove and I have experienced them cracking. I was able to patch it up for temporary operation until I was able to get a replacement. For the most part, the condensate trap will be fine.

Let the consumer know that this needs maintenance annually. It's in the instruction manual. It starts on page 49
http://s3.supplyhouse.com/product_files/GB142-24-LP-Install.pdf

EdTheHeaterMan

Add operating the relief valve to your maintenance procedure. let the consumer know that it is included at no charge, however, if the PRV fails the "operation," it will need to be replaced and the charge is $**.00 (we don't talk price here but you can use your own fee structure)

Here is your official reason for operating the relief valve. This is part of what is on the yellow tag on every PRV

WARNING: Following installation, The valve lever MUST
be operated AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR to be sure the water-ways are clear. Certain naturally occurring mineral
deposits may adhere to the valve, rendering it inoperative.
When manually operating the lever, water will discharge and
precautions must be taken to avoid contact with hot water
and to avoid water damage. BEFORE operating lever, check
to see that a discharge line is connected to this valve directing
the flow of hot water from the valve to a proper place of disposal
otherwise personal injury may result. If no water flows,
valve is inoperative. TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER AND
CALL A PLUMBER IMMEDIATELY.
This device is designed for emergency safety relief and shall
not be used as an operating control.


I would replace 15 or more relief valves a year as a result of this inspection during a paid maintenance visit. We did over 400 of these maintenance visits a year. That made for a nice add on to the "Low Price" maintenance calls we offered. And the customer could feel safe that the safety device was going to protect the investment of that boiler.


We did not go crazy with unnecessary parts replacements, we only did the service the customer needed and wanted to be sure the heating plant is safe.