Boiler Help!

Ray_5

Hello,

I am in the process of getting quotes on coverting from propane to oil. I have gotten so many different responses and prices I was hoping you folks could help. Some just want to cut out the old boiler and insert a new one, even though the old plumbing is messy and old. Some want to do everything (installing a pump for each zone, is this normal?)and charge a premium. Although I had one tell me it was very slow this time of year and he gave me a 1500 break on the price. The brands I have been getting quotes on are Burnham, Utica, and System 2000. Can someone make a recomendation as to what brand they think is best and how extensive should the install be? Thanks so much!!!
Ray

Al Letellier

new boiler

Ray, what a loaded question!!! As I'm sure you know, it's impossible to know all the information to help you without being there. Beware the guy that is slow and is willling to discount his work as much as the guy that wants to do it the easy way. Get referrals from industry folks, use the Find a contractor feature here and get three good contractors to look over your system and make recommendations. The good ones will work with you and support their plans with literature, a well prepared plan and good efficient equipment.
As to the type of boiler, we all have our favorites. Find a contractor that is more interested in putting in the right piece of equipment for your application, not the right boiler for him to win a trip or other goodies for himself. A good heating professional will not be cheap, won't discount his work "because it's slow", and will give your your money's worth, many times over.

To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"

ScottMP

Ray

Al just gave you some great advice.

Now heres my two cents. A heating system is just that, a system. When you shop for a car would you entertain the thought of just ripping out the engine and putting in a new one. A heating system needs to last longer than your car and the purchase should be treated as such.

Any good boiler can be made inefficient with poor piping practices. A good boiler installer can make a standard plain jane boiler do wonders by the install. Shop the installer and not the boiler.

This is an investment in your home that is Well worth spending money on. Find out what the higher priced guys are going to do for you. A quality company knows its overhead and knows it cost more for a good job. Besides when you have a service issuie do you want a company that will still be in business and ready to help or do you want to start over and thumb thru the yellow pages.


Good Luck

Scott

To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"

joel_4

milne

That was a PERFECT answer from Milne. Now my 1.5 cents worth.
Don't worry about the cost. Think of it this way. If your like most people I know you probably paid extra to get the car your driving over a cheaper model. You percieved it to be a better value for your money. Many people pay a few k extra to get the options they want I.E. alloy wheels , cd player, or tow package on a truck. So how long do you keep the car??? 5 years ? 10?. How long are you going to keep your house?

Ray_5

Boiler Help

Thanks to everyone that posted. All your advice is great and much appreciated. Do you guys have any preferences on the boiler? As I said I am looking at the System 2000, Burnham V8, and a Utica Starfire.
Thanks Again!
Ray

Ray_5

Thanks to everyone that responded! All of your information is great and much appreciated. As I said I am looking at a System 2000, Burnham V8, and a Utica Starfire. Which do you guys feel is the best and most efficient boiler that will provide a long life as I want to do this right.
Thanks Again!
Ray

Nick_5

new boiler

> Thanks to everyone that responded! All of your

> information is great and much appreciated. As I

> said I am looking at a System 2000, Burnham V8,

> and a Utica Starfire. Which do you guys feel is

> the best and most efficient boiler that will

> provide a long life as I want to do this

> right. Thanks Again! Ray



here in central vermont, we see 25 system 2000's for every one of the burnham's or utica's. our customers have saved money with reduced fuel usage. installation is key, with any system, so ask for references and talk to local supply houses for product info.

Nick_5

new boiler

here in central vermont, we see 25 system 2000's for every one of the burnham's or utica's. our customers have saved money with reduced fuel usage. installation is key, with any system, so ask for references and talk to local supply houses for product info.

Joe_13

I was looking to get the EK-1

But the 4" flue would require a full liner to reduce my chimney flue. There are a few other low mass,low water boilers out there that you can get. Just add some high end boiler controls like Tekmar to give you the same functionality.
I didn't like the HX plate used to heat the DHW/recovery tank. I'd rather get a good s.s. indirect-fired DHW tank with a HX coil right in the tank.

jim f

burnahm

> Thanks to everyone that responded! All of your

> information is great and much appreciated. As I

> said I am looking at a System 2000, Burnham V8,

> and a Utica Starfire. Which do you guys feel is

> the best and most efficient boiler that will

> provide a long life as I want to do this

> right. Thanks Again! Ray

jim f

burnahm

hey ray,
i have been installing burnahm boilers for a long time. i have found the v-8 series is a exceptional boiler. i have not had any major problems in years. the posts before hit the nail on the head. i would take the advice on finding a compatant installer!! that is key! compare the apples to apples and see what kind of work and quality your paying for. ask for pictures of thier work. familerize your self with hvac lingo so you have an idea on what somebody is trying to sell you.
good luck!!
hers a picture of a v8 series burnahm
jim f.
tri-city heating and cooling
milford, ct.