"hillpc" wrote in message
...
The boiler with Beckett AF burner was here when I moved in. I assume
the HE stands for high efficiency, but what was that 20 years ago? I
could keep this boiler going for a long time, but wanted to check if
it's worth it to replace with new. The Weil-McLain website has a
calculator but doesn't have the info I need. It shows a 78% default
efficiency; going from this to 86% or so saves me a little over $200/
year (at $2.40/gallon). Seems like that'll take quite a while to
recoup at a boiler equipment only cost of over 2 grand.

There are a few considerations to help make the right decision. At 20 years,
it could go tomorrow, or it could last another 10 or 20 years. I replaced
mine last year at 30 years and it is paying for itself so far. It was
getting ready for big repair bills at that age.

That 78% is probably wrong and is in reality closer to 70% or less.

How do you make hot water? If it is the typical tankless coil, it is very
inefficient for that use. Do you hear the boiler kicking on to keep the
water hot? Terrible waste of energy. Indirect fired water is far more
economical and a good tank can keep water hot for a couple of days if not
used. It used to bug me to be laying in bed on a hot night and hear the
boiler kick on just to maintain temperature. No more. My basement is much
cooler now that heat is not wasted.

In past years I've used about 850 gallons of oil a year. Based on degree
days, my use this past winter was a savings of 32%. That is equal to $650 a
year. With the summer hot water use, I think it is going to be even better
savings. Past years, I'd have a fill in April and again in October just
from hot water use. My February fill is only down to about 1/2 so far.

It may be possible to get 0% financing through your state and get rebates on
top of that, not to mention a $1500 tax credit.
What I have is the System 2000 from Energy Kinetics. So far, it is working
well and saving a bundle. After a full year I can tell you better.

Dollar for dollar, it is questionable payback, but if you are heading for
any big repair bills, this is a good time to take advantage of the tax
credit.