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Propane Gas Boiler Replacement

K424637
K424637 Member Posts: 1

I am seeking some assistance with replacing a propane gas boiler. The current boiler is a Hydro Therm HI-125B, 125K BTU, that was installed in 1988. It is for a home that is used minimally in the winter, during which time the thermostat is set to 50 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. I have received five estimates from three different contractors to replace it with either a similar boiler or a high-efficiency wall-hung boiler. One of the contractors raised questions/concerns about venting for both systems 1) for the high-efficiency the pipes would need to extend approximately 25 feet to the outside and there apparenlty isn't enough space in the ceiling to get the required angle, and 2) the current boiler vents through the chimney, but the vent hole would need to be raised to accommodate a more modern boiler which is much taller (the current boiler is 24" high and the bottom of the vent hole is 43"). The two other contractors didn't make mention of either of these issues and are strongly suggesting the wall-hung option. In follow-up conversations, one contractor indicated the wall-hung boiler could be vented through the chimney. I have no idea how to determine what the best option is. Any guidance would be appreciated. Thank you.

Comments

  • HVACNUT
    HVACNUT Member Posts: 7,080

    Did any of the contactors do a heat loss calculation?

    As far as clearances for exhaust, we don't know the models of the boilers offered. Or your basement layout.

    If it was me, and I wasn't there frequently, I'd keep it simple with a CI block, spark ignition, chimney vent. Spark over standing pilot because I won't be there to light it, will I?

    What's making the domestic hot water?

    EBEBRATT-Ed
  • EBEBRATT-Ed
    EBEBRATT-Ed Member Posts: 18,828

    Agree with @HVACNUT

    You should do a Heat loss calculation as the old boiler could well be oversized. A smaller boiler costs less and less to install.

    I would stick with a CI boiler as well. less to go wrong

    If you go wall mount you can use the chimney as a chase for the vent pipe.

    The second two contractors that didn't bring up the "venting" issues because they didn't bother to measure or look.

    That should make your choice of contractor easier. Their lack of looking would end up costing you more in the form of "xtras"

  • hot_rod
    hot_rod Member Posts: 25,918

    what type of heat emitters? Fin tube, cast radiators, radiant?

    Bob "hot rod" Rohr
    trainer for Caleffi NA
    Living the hydronic dream
  • Jon_blaney
    Jon_blaney Member Posts: 327

    Don't go to small or you will never go from 50 to 70 in a reasonable time. Heat loss calculations mzy size your equipment to maintain a given temperature not recover from a 20 degree setback.

  • hot_rod
    hot_rod Member Posts: 25,918

    an assessment of the heat emitters is another way to size. No reason to size a boiler larger than what the heat emitters can move into the building.

    Bob "hot rod" Rohr
    trainer for Caleffi NA
    Living the hydronic dream
    mattmia2Matt_67Ironman