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Weil Mclain boiler replacement?

Frank Vega
Frank Vega Member Posts: 1
in THE MAIN WALL
I have a Weil Mclain boiler that is, probably, close to 40 years old. It is a big monster. I have it serviced and cleaned every year and every year I have been told it is fine.

This year, the technician came out and found soot on the ground underneath the burners and on the flue pipe (I think) in the back. He did a measurement of CO between the 'rails'(?) and said the result of 35 ppm, while high, fell within the acceptable range of below 50 ppm. He also did not clean it saying that, with the soot and threat of CO, it really was time to get a new unit.

Being a homeowner who knows nothing, I asked many questions and he was very helpful and knowledgeable. But, I have to say that I was surprised by the diagnosis; thus, I am at this website which, by the way, the technician pointed me too -- another sign, in my eyes, of his integrity.

So, I have a few question I would like to ask: 1. Can a unit go from no soot to sooty in one year? 2. Is a 'rail' reading of 35 ppm serious enough to warrant replacement? and 3. Should I just stop being stupid and invest in a new boiler for the obvious reasons above and because I am spending plenty of $$$ on a very inefficient system? Also, he recommended a Bederas (sp?) unit; are these good systems?

Thanks in advance.

Comments

  • Al Letellier_9
    Al Letellier_9 Member Posts: 929
    Weil replacement

    to answer your questions 1- Yes 2- Not necessarily 3- Not a bad idea
    Any boiler, no matter who made it, at 40 years of age is way out of date in the efficiency department and is a good candidate for upgrade. While the tech was probably right, I would have clean it because it sounds like you have a problem. A properly adjusted boiler, oil or gas, should generate little or no soot. There is a problem with the burner or gas/air adjustment that should be addressed ASAP, unless you are going to replace the boiler...tomorrow!! A poorly adjusted burner is a health hazard and could get worse overnight...get him back soon. Get it cleaned and adjusted for safety while you research and get estimates for replacement, if you decide to go that way.

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