Install LWC On a System 2000 EK1

Gary_7

I have an old EK1 that was installed without a Low Water Cutoff and I'm considering installing a TACO LWC. Looking at EK's cut sheet, they have it installed on the supply side above the circulator and below the supply manifold (within the supply loop). Since my EK1 is already in, it could be a big project to move the manifold up and add a tee for the LWC (Not sure its worth it at this point). My question is, does the LWC require moving water or is the presence (or lack of) water good so that the LWC would function properly. If so, would inserting a nipple and tee, and installing the LWC where the white arrow is (above the supply manifold where the hy-vent is) on the attached photo work? Then reinstall the Hy-Vent above the LWC?

Thx in advance.

Steamhead

Check the instructions that came with the LWCO.

If they don't say yes or no, I'd lean toward placing the probe in moving water. This would help keep it clean.

Gary_7

Thx for the quick reply Steamhead.

The instructions for the LWCO states that the manufacturer of the boiler determines the location of installation.

"Installation:
1. Install the probe above the minimum safe water level, as determined from the boiler manufacturer's literature. (See Fig. 1)
NOTE: This may be in a tapping on the boiler or in the boiler supply or return piping.
2. Install the probe to extend into the boiler cavity or piping to make contact with the water.

I do agree with you that installing it in moving water may help keep it clean and functioning longer, I'm just not sure if its worth the headache of raising the manifold on an old boiler. I envision creating more headaches that way. If I install it where there is no moving water but it functions properly, maybe its worth it. May just mean cleaning the probe more often than usual.

szwedj

@Gary_7 Before we started putting LWCO's standard on all our systems, we used to offer them as an optional kit. For best operation we want the probe be located in the flow of supply piping above the top of the boiler – see the attached instructions and wiring diagram. You of course can try what you are suggesting, although it may be prone to nuisance lockouts and you don’t want to that to happen in freezing temperatures while no one is home.

Joe Szwed
Energy Kinetics

Gary_7

Joe,

Your attachment is what I was looking at.

Do I raise the manifold and risk creating other headaches? Do I just add a nipple and tee and risk unnecessary lockouts? Do I do nothing and risk a burn up in a low water situation?

Not sure what I will do yet, I appreciate your input.


Thx
Gary

Gary_7

Not sure if i'm going to do it or not yet, but I have another quick question. Can I use a brass tee instead of a steel tee? Or is this not a good idea. I ask because I have a brass tee handy.

gary