Munchkin - Best Value?

Eric Peterson_3 · November 2003

On paper, Munchkin boilers have very appealing properties:
- wide heating range
- PVC exhaust venting
- accomodate low temperature return
- high efficiency
- easy to install

It does seem about 50% more expensive than a Burnham Revolution. The Munchkin looks like an excellent product, though. When I get around to replacing my current 49 year old boiler, I had been planning on installing a Revolution. Now I'm not so sure. What is the field experience with the Munchkins? Are they (or the Revolution for that matter) expected to last 50 years? Does it represent the best value? I would be interested in your opinions and experience.

Thanks,
Eric Peterson

GW · November 2003

50 years

I'm not so sure 50 years is in the game plan- nor do I think we'll be using fosil fuels in 50 years!

We've done several jobs, so far so good.

Gary

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GW · November 2003

50 years

I'm not so sure 50 years is in the game plan- nor do I think we'll be using fosil fuels in 50 years!

We've done several jobs, so far so good.

Gary

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GW · November 2003

50 years

I'm not so sure 50 years is in the game plan- nor do I think we'll be using fosil fuels in 50 years!

We've done several jobs, so far so good.

Gary

To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"

GW · November 2003

50 years

I'm not so sure 50 years is in the game plan- nor do I think we'll be using fosil fuels in 50 years!

We've done several jobs, so far so good.

Gary

To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"

ScottMP · November 2003

50 % ?

Wow that seems a bit high to me .

I believe the last time I priced them they were both in the same ball park.

Scott

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Eric Peterson_3 · November 2003

One other thing

My house has a mix of older upgright cast iron radiators and some cast iron baseboard, split into three zones. There is no radiant or DHW (at the moment anyway). The main part of the house is a converted gravity system, so there is a lot of water in the pipes. Return water temperature will vary from room temperature to 140 depending on the need for heat and which zones are active.

Is the Munchkin primarily designed for radiant, or will it be equally beneficial in my situation?

Thanks,
Eric

heretic · November 2003

Works great...

...with my big iron.

Lots of system volume (like CI rads) is said to be a good thing with low mass boilers. If you run an outdoor reset control, your return temps will likely be low most of the time, for more condensing benefit. No 'hoops' to protect from low return as a bonus.

HTP recommends a Y-strainer with iron to filter out debris that could clog the heat exchanger.

Realistically too new to report on longevity, but I decided to take the leap and be a 'guinea pig'.

Munchkin - Best Value?

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