During a scheduled heating inspection and tune-up for a client, we immediately noted a strange burning smell coming from the 3 zone 50 year old Federal Boiler that is installed in a closet next to the ground floor kitchen. During all heating calls, we perform a combustion and draft analysis. Within 5 minutes confirmed that the system was not properly combusting and that the boiler was producing well over 1,000 ppm of CO (carbon monoxide). As a comparison, the typical Carbon Monoxide Detector will alarm at 400 ppm within 4-15 minutes.
Older systems do not have any safety devices or sensors like modern systems, so if anything else malfunctioned with this system it could be lethal to the occupants of the property. As discussed potential repairs to the existing system and recommended system replacement. We advised that the system should not be used until repairs or replacement is made. During the decision making process, the client had the fire department and gas utility come out to the home and “check things out”.
According to the client, both the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department and National Grid informed the elderly client that the system was NOT creating any carbon monoxide and it needed to be cleaned. I hope this was a miscommunication by representatives of the fire department and utility. We removed the boiler and most near boiler piping. Supplied and installed Weil-McLain CGA5 gas fired boiler. Commissioned system. That is a professional job.
Weil-McLain CGA5 Gas-Fired Boiler
Over the last 130 years, Weil-McLain has built a reputation of designing some of the most reliable boilers in the marketplace. Their dedication to producing lasting heating solutions is seen in every boiler they make. The CGa is a compact, natural draft boiler. The low profile makes this boiler perfect for space conscious applications with chimney access.
Solid construction and a good efficiency rating make the CGa an excellent value. A vent damper, draft hood, and Taco circulator are included. These components, coupled with easily accessible controls, make it easy to install and set your CGa up. Whether you are replacing an older boiler or beginning new construction, the CGa is an efficient, compact heating solution.
