Condensing Boiler and Solar?

Nron_13

if you are redoing your intire heating system then stay with the condensing boilers , if you are looking to improve the boiler only there are many things to consider , are you converting from steam heating system or baseboard system , are you adding insulation to the home ,is the boiler worn out or in need of a tune up , dont forget to do an accurate heat loss for the home things may have changed over the years new windows , doors , siding, are some of the things to look at ,

Cold in DC

Condensing Boiler and Solar?

I am looking to replace a 50s era boiler with a new high efficiency condensing boiler, a indirect water tank, and a solar thermal system. Does anyone have experience installing all three together in an integrated package? If so what equipment do you recommend - assume I cannot afford a Viessmann.

Thanks in advance.

RR

Constantin

Well...

... I'm just a homeowner, not an installer, but I thought I would provide you with a couple of links to peruse while the professionals start knocking on your door.

I would start by having a look at the Lessons Learned solar book as a starter for any consideration of solar systems. Heating (or pre-heating) water for domestic use, usually makes more sense than trying to space-heat as well. It depends on the location and the home.

For a non-Viessmann solution, I would look into Thermomax and their range of evacuated tubes or, for a KISS solution, a drain-back system like the ones sold by Butler Solar. The latter being the most cost-conscious solution. Have fun!

ALH_4

Mixing

You could install a tekmar 3-way mixing valve and controller on the primary loop. Connect the boiler and the solar storage tank (controlled by a differential setpoint control) to the primary loop with close tees.

Sure the solar tank will keep the condensing boiler warm, but condensing boilers are generally low mass, so it shouldn't be too bad. The reset curve on the condensing boiler would have to be shifted a little higher than the one on the mixing valve controller.

I have yet to try this, but it seems like it would work pretty well. The boiler would always take care of DHW production. Unless of course you have a solar dhw preheat system.

-Andrew

boazatcedarmountainsolar.com

Trinity/Amtrol combo

RR,

We have been installing solar heating systems with Trinity condensing boilers and Amtrol sidearm tanks. We have just begun using Vaughn SEPCO tanks as a lower-cost alternative to the Amtrol, especially upon realizing that Amtrol's "lifetime warranty" was not all it seemed. We use a primary loop design and Tekmar control system. Viessmann or Heliodyne collectors, PV-pumped. Let me know if you have more specific questions.