Oil Boiler repair or replace?

Rob W · May 2009

I'd like some advice on repairing or replacing my boiler. I have a Burnham RSA series steel oil boiler that has a crack in the chamber and it is only a matter of time before it burns through the back (outer casing on rear is showing burn marks). I've recieved a quote to repair the boiler by replacing the chamber and base and repairing the sheet metal on the rear for $1000. My other option is to obviously replace the boiler with a newer more efficient model at the cost of $6000 or more. Is it worth repairing the boiler, which is over 10 years old? Does anyone have any experience with repairs on this type of burnham boiler? Do you think I would get another 10 years out of it or am I wasting $$$ repairing it?

Robert O'Brien · May 2009

When you consider the increased efficiency with a better unit,it's not worth repairing

steve_29 · May 2009

The short answer is yes, higher efficient systems will reap rewards in savings, home value, and comfort.

Brian_76 · May 2009

Repair or replace

You should keep in mind that a steel boiler is a 20 year boiler in the best of circumstances. The damage was probably caused by service tech pushing the cleanout brush into the chamber from the top, a typical problem on this Burnham. If money is an issue, repair. But keep in mind that if you get a cast iron boiler, your'e getting better efficiency, more reliablity and a 30 year boiler. I would always push for the change out, the repair might not last and you'll still need a new boiler.

Dave Mayer -3 Sons Heating · May 2009

Good advice from Brian. I could not have said it better.
Dave

Steamhead (in transit) · May 2009

I agree- replace the boiler

a new 3-pass cast-iron boiler will run rings around that old steel one. If you like Burnham, their 3-pass is called the MPO.

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billtwocase · May 2009

definite replacement

If it was a "V" series, or even an "RS" series, i'd say do the repair if cash is an issue, but th "RSA" is a bottom line boiler, and you'd be throwing good money after bad JMO. peace

Charlie from wmass · May 2009

I vote for replace but do not get driven simply by the cheapest price. make sure the new boiler will be sized correctly to the home and that it is of better quality than the unit you are replacing. Just because it is new does not make it better and just because it is a top of the line boiler does not mean it will be installed well. Piped as per manufacturer's specifications and sized properly to the home and the heat loss for your region.

Unknown · May 2009

I'm with the \" replace \" crowd

We install the RSA boiler from time to time . But I'd go for a cast iron upgrade . More efficient and it will last longer than a dry base steel boiler .

Oil Boiler repair or replace?

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