Dampers

M Ransley

Is there any possibility to retrofit cheaply a mechanical damper to a gas water heater or boiler to retain heat for greater efficiency. I would be worried it could stick closed allowing flue gas to enter residence. I know there are motor controled dampers which are safe as they will not allow firing because of saftey controls. I realy dont think a mechanical unit without saftey controls is smart but my Hvac guy recomended it, Actualy I think he is a hack-idiot but want to ask you pros to be sure.

Geno_15

It's been tried

but these units are long gone, they cost $200 20 years ago and saved 2%, no payback, but increases the chance for death, I believe they are outlawed now, DO NOT DO THIS!! To save energy get High Eff equipment and qualified service personnel/co's to install and service.

High eff equipment has this built in so the off cycle is not letting a lot of heat up the chimney, some like Riello's close off the intake which is ok, but close off the exhaust and the fumes will go into the house--
not cool!

Just punch up "CO deaths or "CO poisoning" on your search engine for proof.

M Ransley

dampers

Well I guess my heating guy is a hack , He said he puts these in, he is from the Chicago area . I now wonder if he is even lisenced as what you are saying he is doing something dangerous. I did google but could find nothing on dampers and Co deaths, Thanks.

oil-2-4-6-gas

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actually a lot 75 gallon or larger water heater -is shipped with a motorized damper and lots of replacement gas boilers have them too --but most of the units are left in the "service" position --(manual open) --why did your guy suggest the damper are you having pilot problems? not to say your guy isn't a hack but it might be what he was taught and thinks it will improve standy-loss for better overall efficiency if you are going to retro-fit 1 you need rollout switches and tie in safeties well above what you have now

helpingothershelpthemselves_2

The device was called a "Flair stack pack" marketed by Roy Rath Associates of Long Island many many moons ago !

jim murtaugh

damper

I to am in the chicago area and have cut many of these out . I just cut one out last week I was reading 6 ppm of co on a forced air furnace. I would not recomend these for anyone.