Are manufacturers reps and distributors extinct?
One of the companies we represent was owned by Russ Geaslen. He changed the boiler industry as we know it by designing and patenting the primary/secondary piping of modular boilers in 1964 (Patent No....
View ArticleControlling an existing hydronic boiler
I like working with the control techs in our industry. They have such a passion for their craft. If left alone, they will control or monitor everything that moves, slides, shakes or switches. However,...
View ArticleThe boiler gas train
One of the most misunderstood portions of the commercial heating system is the gas train. The gas train is a series of components that safely feed natural or propane gas into the burner.
View ArticleWhat can you do to affect the performance of your heating systems?
I am reminded of a call I received during a bitter cold snap.
View ArticleBoiler safety lessons
This could have been a severe catastrophe that could have injured or killed many people.
View ArticleThe human thermostat
My children were students a local elementary school which was affiliated with the church we also attend.
View ArticleShould you reuse the existing flue and chimney?
One of the considerations when replacing a boiler is whether to re-use the existing flue and chimney.
View ArticleThe differences between a safety, relief and safety relief valve
Learn the difference between a safety, relief and safety relief valve.
View Article10 reasons why boilers are still excellent heating systems
I believe boilers are still a great heating system and will share my reasons.
View ArticleCombustions analysis tips to ensure proper operation
Ensure proper operation of your clients’ boilers.
View ArticleThe importance of boiler maintenance training
If you perform an Internet search for boiler accidents, you would find page after page of shocking stories and pictures.
View ArticleTips on properly sizing the combustion air openings
Tips on properly sizing the combustion air openings.
View ArticleHow to maintain low-water cutoffs
Routine maintenance helps ensure optimal boiler performance and safety.
View ArticleThings to consider about hydronic systems
Air, pH balance, magnetite, and more can all have a huge impact on performance.
View ArticleWhy is the relief valve leaking?
Not maintaining this item could destroy the heating system.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Understanding boiler controls
Correctly set controls ensure proper boiler operation.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Saying goodbye to industry legend, Bill Vallett, Sr.
Saying goodbye to an industry legend.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: The case for 2 psig
When I parked my truck outside the boiler room, I saw a thick plume of steam chugging from a pipe on the outside wall. Right away, my spidey sense started to tingle.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Troubleshooting hydronics
When I look at any replacement hydronic boiler project, my tenet is always to assume the existing system is installed improperly. I like to pretend I am a famous detective, such as Sherlock Holmes, and...
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Consider a hydronic heating system
The owner asked for a bid to replace her 35-year-old cast iron boiler, which was still operating.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Boiler room detective
Sherlock Holmes has always been one of my favorite fictional characters. I envied how he would notice each detail and use every one of his senses to solve the crime.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Troubleshooting hydronic systems
When troubleshooting a hydronic system, the piping layout is often confusing.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Tips for high-efficiency boiler replacement
It was such a simple project; replace the old cast iron boiler with a new condensing boiler.
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: The importance of safety in mechanical rooms
An electrician walked into the equipment room to diagnose and repair an electrical problem in the school. It didn't take long for the carbon monoxide inside the boiler room to fell the man. The source...
View ArticleRay Wohlfarth: Installing a trouble-free condensing boiler
On the older hydronic systems, replacing the existing boiler with a new one was pretty straightforward. The installer connected the new boiler to the existing flue, piping and electric. The newer...
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