EK System questions

JIMBO_2

Looking at the EK 2000 System, with storage tank. But I've heard a few questionable remarks about their tanks. Any one care to comment on this? Also, the pricing I've been quoted (Asbury Park, NJ area) seems a little steep. Coming from past experience, can anybody share their view of possible savings and reliability. 1,200 sq ft house, all BB heat, and DHW, gas fired. Thanks

lchmb

personal

I have installed a number of system 2000's over the year's and find them to be a very reliable and cost effective system. As to the tank itself, as is anything you buy you may have one that has a problem. I have not installed a bad one yet myself but I am sure it can and does happen. As to the cost, I would shop around, find someone you trust and is experienced with the system (if it is what you want) and get a price you can handle from someone you like. Just remember sometimes the price is a little high due to them being that good and trustworthy in what they do. Pay now not later....IMHO

John Madden

EK Boilers

I have been selling and installing Energy Kinetics Boilers and accessories for 25+years. The original domestic hot water tanks were glass lined carbon steel tanks just like standard electric hot water tanks. These tanks are subject to the same problems that you would encounter from any other tank of this type. Longevity will depend on many factors, much of which depends on the quality of the water going through them.

Energy Kinetics now offers Stainless Steel tanks as an alternate. These units offer many advantages over the glass lined counterparts. No tank is immune to everything. But depending on water quality, (and quantity to some extent) you might want to consider the SS option.

When it comes to pricing,check out just what you are getting for your money. There are many very practical "add ons" offered by EK. Perhaps the dealer you contacted has had enough experience to know what accessories are right for your application, and has included them in your proposal. It is also quite possible that your contractor has also included additional features and some additional piping and valves to make servicing the unit easier and faster in the future.

My proposals for a System 2000 tend to be more expensive than my competition. Over the years of installing and servicing these units (as well as many, many other brands) we use a different approach to an installation. If done properly any future service problem can usually be resolved within 15 to 20 minutes on the job. Which means to the customer they will save substantially on future service calls.

Check things out. the old addage "ya gets what ya pays for" is a real truism. EK is quality built in America, now all you need is to match it with good craftsman to install and service it. Best of Luck.

JIMBO_2

Thanks, John. Considering I intend to install this system myself, I would appreciate hearing any suggestions you care to offer for a superior instalation, taking into account accessability for service and/or repairs. I do not normally install residential heating systems, I work installing commercial systems in buildings and schools. Making it a bit more difficult for me, I "install" what is on the print, as indicated in the specs--but I do not design, order or purchase any of the installed systems.

DaveGateway

You have to be an authorized dealer

to get one, they don't sell through plumbing supply wholesalers. Why would you bother heating a DHW tank with a flat plate HX? For gas, I'd get a 90+ condensing boiler with a Phase III SS indirect. Tekmar boiler controls can do the same functions and it's not a proprietary board like the EK. Even a wall hung combo from Baxi or Rianni would be easier to install, probably cheaper and give you just as good performance with more floor space.