Weil Mclain Gold Oil Fired Steam Boiler

Aaron_5

I recently aquired a house with an oil fired steam boiler. I have been told;
It is operating at 86 1/2% efficiency. The low water cut-off is working. The boiler is not automatic water feed. The boiler is 3 years old and the oil tank is new. Hot water tanks are gas fired with flue in line with oil furnace.

I do not understand one thing in this text. I would appreciate any and all help in deciphering what this monster does and how to keep it happy. I do not even have a clue how to keep it running (or do I turn it off.)
Thanks to all who help and all who wish they could.

Constantin

As a fellow homeowner...

... I would start by going through Dan's series of books on the subject of steam and steam boiler. I would start with We got Steam Heat and if you're still feeling frisky afterwards, move on to the motherlode, The Lost Art of Steam Heating. Both books will give you plenty of insight into what makes a steam system happy (i.e. a good installation to start with) and how to maintain them.

Al Letellier

instructions needed

Aaron, getting to know your heating system can be as confusing as sitting in the cockpit of the space shuttle to those of you homeowners who have never lived with steam heat, but trust me, it's not that difficult. The books mentioned in the other responce are great, and you should at least get the first one "we've got steam heat", but along with that, use the Find a Pro feature and hire a local steam expert to come and go over the system with you. We steam guys have this thing about sharing our knowledge,and it will be the best investment you can make. Whatever he charges, you'll get a lot out of his visit. Dan writes great books (I think I have most of them), but hands-on teaching will bring it all to life for you. In short, buy the book and hire the teacher.

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

REF

As a tech. I agree with Al

You really do need a true steam professional. Not just someone who knows some of the buzz words. Also, you should ensure that they themselves can tune your system correctly for peak performance, or they should recommend someone. A tune-up usually takes about 2 hours if it is done correctly. Steam is great. Best wishes.

PS Start with the book Al recommended.

REF
Hometown H&C Inc.