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Steam Rookie

Alan (California Radiant) Forbes
Alan (California Radiant) Forbes Member Posts: 3,976
edited May 2018 in THE MAIN WALL
Visited this boiler yesterday for a homeowner that wanted to replace it because it wouldn't fire. Tracked down a bad ignition control module and gave it another few years of life. Previous contractors had agreed that it needed to be replaced as they stood in the doorway to the room, not even trying to find out what was wrong with it.

But then I thought with all of the old safeties that may no longer work, maybe I did the homeowner a disservice. What do you think?
8.33 lbs./gal. x 60 min./hr. x 20°ΔT = 10,000 BTU's/hour

Two btu per sq ft for degree difference for a slab

Comments

  • Shalom
    Shalom Member Posts: 165
    "To shut off gas, drop weight..."
    1Matthias
  • Fred
    Fred Member Posts: 8,542
    I would say it's a good idea to tell the homeowner that its a good idea to have the controls checked/serviced and you'd like to see a new Pressuretrol and standard gas shut-off on the gas line before the next heating season.
    1Matthias
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 16,796
    I've seen plenty of these 1920s-era boilers over the years but they've all had updated controls. This one looks original. Not sure this control system even meets Code anymore.

    You'd need to replace the Pressuretrol, low-water cutoff and gas valve for starters. Also add a pilot safety to it if the original setup is not so equipped.

    I think I'd recommend replacing it too. Be aware there is probably asbestos under the jacket.
    All Steamed Up, Inc.
    Towson, MD, USA
    Steam, Vapor & Hot-Water Heating Specialists
    Oil & Gas Burner Service
    Consulting
    Henry
  • newagedawn
    newagedawn Member Posts: 586
    what you did went a long way to build trust, now you fixed it, but time to bury that ole beast to something way more efficient, i thought all cali's were energy conscious,lol
    "The bitter taste of a poor install lasts far longer than the JOY of the lowest price"
  • RomanP
    RomanP Member Posts: 102
    I’d suggest replacing it. Amount of parts and labor needed to get that beast up to standard would be pretty considerable. Then imagine after you do all of that it starts leaking and you have to charge them again for a new boiler.
    1MatthiasSTEAM DOCTORdelta T
  • Tinman
    Tinman Member Posts: 2,808
    I would love to have that data plate. That's what I think : )
    Steve Minnich
    ratio1Matthiasdelta T