What to ask the service rep?

Ron D

Didn't see this in the hot topics, but:
What should a homeowner ask his tech during annual service?

My system is a one pipe oil fired steam system, installed in 1967. Typical service has been cleaning the boiler passages, replacing the filter and nozzle, and chcking the flue gasses. Thanks to this board, I've replaced a few vents, leveled the radiators so the condensate actually flows out (This old house has really rocked and rolled through the years), and easy stuff like that, that has made it heat better.

It runs well, I don't lose much water, it heats evenly and fairly quickly... but I see on this board services like cleaning the wet returns, skimming the water and other stuff the tech never mentions. Do I need to have any of this done? What else will help me on efficiency?

Al Letellier_9

annual maintenance

Not much more on efficiency side other than correct setting the breech draft to limit excessive heat loss up the chimney.
Above all else, nmake sure that the safety devices are working properly, especially the low water cutoff and pressure switch. Too seldom is the low water cutoff dismantled and properly flushed and cleaned (if afloat type) or is the probe cleaned on the electronic type. During maintenance, the low water cut off should be flushed or blown down WHILE THE BOILER IS RUNNING AND MAKING STEAM. This will help flush the unit and make sure it is safely shutting down the boiler. The syphon, or pigtail under the pressure switch should be checked for obsstructions and cleaned annually.

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