Relay problem

John_38

Strange thing happened today. Three zone values, all thermostats set to 68. House temp 64. Circulation pump (B&G 100) not running. Boiler (American Standard G-2) not heating up. Tranformer (Honeywell R8239) is buzzing. Out of desparation I reset (turn off and back on) the AC power switch connected to the transformer. Circulation pump starts running and boiler come on. Everything appears to be running okay.

In the past have notice clicking noise coming from this transformer area. I assumed that the noise was some relay kicking in. Is this puppy on its last legs?

masterplumb

chattering relay

Usually a chattering relay is a sign that it is on its way out. You also should check the primary and secondary side of the transformer to make sure your getting the proper voltages, also check the va rating on the transformer. Chris

S Davis

Sounds like too much load on the transformer, depending on your control, probably honeywell transformer relay combo I think the max load is about 1.2 amps and that includes the control circuit.
Check what VA your trans is and then check the zone valve amp ratings.

S Davis

albcorb

RE: transformer problem

typically you can install up to 3 zone valves on 1 40va transformer. I usually install a separate one for zone vavles and not use the bouler tranformer for them. Check to be sure the circuit isn't overloaded. I would recommend either installing a higher VA (50VA)rated transformer or wiring in a new transformer for the zone valves.
What seems to be happening to yours is as the tranformer and relays heat up from use the resistance increases and the ransformer cannot produce enough power to overcome the additional amperage required. Also check the voltage out of the transformer when not calling and when all systems calling. That could be a good indicator of voltage drop

jim lockard

Amer. Standard

Amer. Standard Boiler that means its 25 years old and most likly so is the rest of the system. If this electrical system was under sized it would have failed years ago. I think I would start by looking for worn out parts, an Xformer has no moving parts it simply provides power. So look at the stuff that moves 1st. Best Wishes J. Lockard

John_38

Relay Problems

Actually the relay is part of a R8329A Fan Center. I found some literature on the Honeywell Web site. It is connected to three Taco zone values. I'm not sure what the zone values are drawing but the R8239A is rated at 31VA external load, 38VA total load and it "looks" fairly new (at least from the outside; haven't opened it up yet).

RichW

noise

38VA should provide 1.58A without problems. If your load is less than this and the voltage is dropping then you should replace the unit.

Good Luck

John_38

Relay problem

Installed a replacement relay (R8222B1067 for an R8222B1000) and it is working like a champ. Thanks to all who contributed to this discussion. Now onto the next set of problems with this 32 year old system.