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Thoughts on Rheem / IBC Firetube Models

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ComfyHvac
ComfyHvac Member Posts: 3
in Domestic Hot Water

I am looking for a high efficiency option for a customer who dislikes Navien based on online discussions. Heard bad things about the Lochinvar Noble and The Vitocrossal 3cua is astronomical. Would the IBC or Rheem branded version be a good alternative. I usually stick to Navien firetube boilers which have been our workhorse for close to 6 years now and have proven reliable with simple maintenance. Are there any alternatives that I should start exploring. I think the Key is proper installation, We always try to install the Navien units by the book and keep intake and exhaust as far apart as possible. I am not sure what the hate on Navien is I have only run into one tankless unit from navien that was faulting but I only install the Firetube boilers from navien.

Comments

  • mattmia2
    mattmia2 Member Posts: 16,322

    what is the issue with lochinvar? people here seem to have good luck with them. they do have a lot of options so if you don't set the controls right you could have a bad time.

    GroundUp
  • hot_rod
    hot_rod Member Posts: 27,234

    the lower priced brands and models will have price point heat exchangers and less control features.

    I have owned and installed many Lochinvar Knights with out any major issues.

    You are correct in installation, service as needed and water quality has most to do with reliability. Some installers add power conditioning for surge and low voltage damage.

    Bob "hot rod" Rohr
    trainer for Caleffi NA
    Living the hydronic dream
  • EdTheHeaterMan
    EdTheHeaterMan Member Posts: 11,948

    Every brand will have bad reviews. Mostly because of installer error. Do your installers make errors on a regular basis? If not than you have very few problems, and you should put in the brand that you are the most comfortable with and offers you the lowest amount of problems. Trying out a new product for the first time, on one fussy customer sounds like you will be using that customer as a guinea pig for another product that you may not be familiar with. A Recipe for Disaster. Sounds like you should let your competition have that customer or convinced them to purchase what you sell.

    Just some thoughts from an old man in a wheelchair

    Edward Young Retired

    After you make that expensive repair and you still have the same problem, What will you check next?

    yellowdog
  • mattmia2
    mattmia2 Member Posts: 16,322

    aren't the navien water tubes the ones that have problems with the exhaust collectors leaking?

    kcopp
  • GGross
    GGross Member Posts: 1,829

    Installation, local parts and support. If you are installing the units well and are happy with your parts and support I don't see a reason to switch. IBC Lochinvar and Viessmann all make good boilers too, I personally am a fan of contractors supporting the brands that are sold by people who will support the contractors when they need. Which wholesaler opens up after hours for you? Who picks up the phone at odd hours? Who has staff that have some technical knowledge? If you are happy with those things I would stay where you are.

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