Water boiler replacement advice

[am0]

Hi, we recently purchased a 20-year-old home with a radiant heat system. The inspector who conducted the inspection for us three months ago didn't find any issues with the system. Unfortunately, that's not the case now. When we decided to test the heating system recently, it became apparent that some rooms are not heating. So, we called a heating company to inspect the system. They presented us with two options:

Option 1: Replace the current system with a Navien Combi Boiler, 199k BTU tankless. Cost: $22,000.
cost include the following:
* New Navien Combi Boiler 199k btu tankless with stainless steel heat exchanger. (Unit will support domestic hot water and heating loop.)
* Removal of old boiler and hot water tank.
* Installation of New Boiler
* Configuration of piping to match new equipment
* Replacement of three pumps
* Set up of controls and communication between thermostats.

Option 2: Replace the broken manifolds for the radiant heat. Cost: $5,000.

This is our first home purchase, and we're somewhat surprised by the cost of these replacements. Is this the typical cost nowadays, or are there more budget-friendly alternatives?

Thank you for reading, and please provide some advice.

 

[WorthFlorida]

Is there anything wrong with the current boiler? Rooms not getting heat usually mean it's air bound or a bad circulator. Sure a new boiler maybe more efficient but $22k plus another $5k is tough just getting into a home. As usual get at least three bids.

Is Option 2 to fix the current system?

You'll usually not find price ranges on this forum, just too many variables around the country. I do not know if this is high or low bid. Two problems with old boilers, parts not available or the plenum/heat exchanger has rustEd through thus putting carbon monoxide into the home.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Keoni37]

Hi, we recently purchased a 20-year-old home with a radiant heat system. The inspector who conducted the inspection for us three months ago didn't find any issues with the system. Unfortunately, that's not the case now. When we decided to test the heating system recently, it became apparent that some rooms are not heating. So, we called a heating company to inspect the system. They presented us with two options:

Option 1: Replace the current system with a Navien Combi Boiler, 199k BTU tankless. Cost: $22,000.
cost include the following:
* New Navien Combi Boiler 199k btu tankless with stainless steel heat exchanger. (Unit will support domestic hot water and heating loop.)
* Removal of old boiler and hot water tank.
* Installation of New Boiler
* Configuration of piping to match new equipment
* Replacement of three pumps
* Set up of controls and communication between thermostats.

Option 2: Replace the broken manifolds for the radiant heat. Cost: $5,000.

This is our first home purchase, and we're somewhat surprised by the cost of these replacements. Is this the typical cost nowadays, or are there more budget-friendly alternatives?

Thank you for reading, and please provide some advice.

On Oct 28 2023 we purchased an 8 year old home in Whatcom County, WA. The home has a radient heating system with slab foundation. House hot water and radient heat water was provided by an 8 year old large tanked hot water system system. 10 days after move in the hot water tank failed, leaked out onto garage floor. Called the contractor that had a sticker on the old tank and they confirmed that the tank had failed and said that tanks in this area have a liftime of about 9-10 years and this had been confirmed by the home inspector who said that the tank was reaching it end of life due to the hard water in this area. So, we were in our new to us home excited about moving in and getting settled and not wanting to go without hot water and heat for a week or more while obtaining bids which was proving difficult to get someone out right away. The contractor with the sticker on the old tank was the only one to come out the following day which they did, confirmed the dead tank and strongly suggested a new tankless combi boiler system. Presented us with 4 quotes to remove the old tank system and replace with new tankless combi. Bids ranged from $16,000 to a high of $24,000 depending on several configurations, warranties, service levels, etc. Ended up opting for the $22,000 offering of a Navien NCB-240/130H. This is a 3br 2ba 2,000sqft home on one level. Felt the cost was excessive also we are retired seniors 77 and 71and I just couldn't help but feel that we were being taken advantage of because of our situation. Never did get an itemized bid which I am still pestering them for.

 

[WorthFlorida]

It sure is hard to say you were at a disadvantage. As I stated this post two years ago, too many variables around the country.

I see you probably did good. The original contractor was still in business and responded immediately. Contractors of the long term usually go with the most reliable since they do not want return for warranty service calls that does cost them money.

Another way to look at it we are not 27 years olds anymore and it’s the piece of mine that your system should be good for many years. I’m 74 with cancer, the wife is 73. Diagnosed June of last year and she is learning how do a few things when I’m not around anymore like changing the air filters in the air handler. Even learning how to deal with landscapers, etc.

You have a contractor that is reliable for service calls and maintenance. BTY, combined boilers do take maintenance, and parts do fail. Just search this forum you’ll see problems but most are very liable and save on your electric bill.

 

[Fitter30]

Take few pics of the system, piping ,boiler and name tag.

 

[John Gayewski]

It's more effeciant to fix what you have. Unless you're ready to invest (with a very very very long term possible payoff) in a new system it's better to fix current equipment.

 

[WorthFlorida]

Take few pics of the system, piping ,boiler and name tag.

It's more effeciant to fix what you have. Unless you're ready to invest (with a very very very long term possible payoff) in a new system it's better to fix current equipment.

This is an old post that new member Keoni37 added to this week. It seems he had a water heater for both heating and domestic hot water. The tank failed and had no hot water.

 

[sajesak]

Hi, we recently purchased a 20-year-old home with a radiant heat system. The inspector who conducted the inspection for us three months ago didn't find any issues with the system. Unfortunately, that's not the case now. When we decided to test the heating system recently, it became apparent that some rooms are not heating. So, we called a heating company to inspect the system. They presented us with two options:

Option 1: Replace the current system with a Navien Combi Boiler, 199k BTU tankless. Cost: $22,000.
cost include the following:
* New Navien Combi Boiler 199k btu tankless with stainless steel heat exchanger. (Unit will support domestic hot water and heating loop.)
* Removal of old boiler and hot water tank.
* Installation of New Boiler
* Configuration of piping to match new equipment
* Replacement of three pumps
* Set up of controls and communication between thermostats.

Option 2: Replace the broken manifolds for the radiant heat. Cost: $5,000.
https://londoncityplumbers.co.uk/service/boiler-installation-london/
This is our first home purchase, and we're somewhat surprised by the cost of these replacements. Is this the typical cost nowadays, or are there more budget-friendly alternatives?

Thank you for reading, and please provide some advice.

Hello,

Our worcester bosch greenstar comnbi CDi boiler from 2006 has broken down and is not worth repairing.

We moved into the property around 12 months ago and were hoping it would last another 3-4 years so we would be able to have some work done and move the boiler downstairs and likely change it to a system boiler with an unvented cylinder. But unfortunately, we will have to change our plans.

The property is a 4 bed detached house, currently with 1 bath, 1 shower and 10 radiators. There is electrical underfloor heating on the ground floor so it is very rare that the ground floor radiators are used. the boiler currently resides in an airing cupboard on the first floor and flues out of the roof.

The water flow rate into the property is between 7-9l per minute and its a ?15mm copper pipe which connects the house to the water main. Again the plan was to upgrade this when we got round to doing some work in the property. The flow rate at the water main is 30l per minute (when the water company checked it).

When we get round to doing some work it is likely we plan to have 2 shower rooms and a bathroom. The number of radiators will likely increase to around 14.

We are currently going to have to replace the boiler like for like - another combi as there isn't enough space for a tank in the airing cupboard.

We have received mixed advice from the plumbers who have visited to advise. Hence turning to a forum.

My questions are:
1. Is there a combi which could manage 3 showers in addition to the rest of the house's needs? Is it possible to move this boiler when we refurb?
2. What size combi would be good to manage our current needs and last 5 years without hassle (and be relatively economical as it is essentially a temporary solution)? Does it need to be 35kw or is 30kw adequate and is worcester bosch 4000 or 8000 range good? is the Ideal logic + a good solution?

 

[WorthFlorida]

Combi-Boiler Sizing

Learn about the factors that affect combi-boiler sizing including home heating demand, domestic hot water demand, how combi-boiler size is calculated & more.

www.navieninc.com

Too many variables to come up for sizing. The most important item is can your electric panel can handle the load?

 

[Fitter30]

Hello,

Our worcester bosch greenstar comnbi CDi boiler from 2006 has broken down and is not worth repairing.

We moved into the property around 12 months ago and were hoping it would last another 3-4 years so we would be able to have some work done and move the boiler downstairs and likely change it to a system boiler with an unvented cylinder. But unfortunately, we will have to change our plans.

The property is a 4 bed detached house, currently with 1 bath, 1 shower and 10 radiators. There is electrical underfloor heating on the ground floor so it is very rare that the ground floor radiators are used. the boiler currently resides in an airing cupboard on the first floor and flues out of the roof.

The water flow rate into the property is between 7-9l per minute and its a ?15mm copper pipe which connects the house to the water main. Again the plan was to upgrade this when we got round to doing some work in the property. The flow rate at the water main is 30l per minute (when the water company checked it).

When we get round to doing some work it is likely we plan to have 2 shower rooms and a bathroom. The number of radiators will likely increase to around 14.

We are currently going to have to replace the boiler like for like - another combi as there isn't enough space for a tank in the airing cupboard.

We have received mixed advice from the plumbers who have visited to advise. Hence turning to a forum.

My questions are:
1. Is there a combi which could manage 3 showers in addition to the rest of the house's needs? Is it possible to move this boiler when we refurb?
2. What size combi would be good to manage our current needs and last 5 years without hassle (and be relatively economical as it is essentially a temporary solution)? Does it need to be 35kw or is 30kw adequate and is worcester bosch 4000 or 8000 range good? is the Ideal logic + a good solution?

8 liters of flow into the house 2.1 gpm doesn't sound right. 15 mm = 1/2" copper pipe size for incoming line? Combi unit now is gas. 35 kw= 119,350 btu's 146 amps @ 240 vac. To pick a combi need to know the lowest incoming water temp and max gpm. What model number is your combo now?

 

[Bilmocraig]

Replacing a water boiler can feel like a hassle, but it’s worth it in the long run. If your current boiler is on the fritz, it might be a good idea to consider replacing rather than patching up the old one. Look for a model that fits your needs—size and efficiency are key! Also, consider whether you want a tank or tankless system; each has perks.I’ve heard great things about getting professional installation help; they can ensure everything is up to code and running smoothly. Don’t forget to check reviews and get quotes from a few places. If you’re handy, you might save a bit by researching the water heater repair yourself.

 

[opplumbinghub]

Hi, we recently purchased a 20-year-old home with a radiant heat system. The inspector who conducted the inspection for us three months ago didn't find any issues with the system. Unfortunately, that's not the case now. When we decided to test the heating system recently, it became apparent that some rooms are not heating. So, we called a heating company to inspect the system. They presented us with two options:

Option 1: Replace the current system with a Navien Combi Boiler, 199k BTU tankless. Cost: $22,000.
cost include the following:
* New Navien Combi Boiler 199k btu tankless with stainless steel heat exchanger. (Unit will support domestic hot water and heating loop.)
* Removal of old boiler and hot water tank.
* Installation of New Boiler
* Configuration of piping to match new equipment
* Replacement of three pumps
* Set up of controls and communication between thermostats.

Option 2: Replace the broken manifolds for the radiant heat. Cost: $5,000.

This is our first home purchase, and we're somewhat surprised by the cost of these replacements. Is this the typical cost nowadays, or are there more budget-friendly alternatives?

Thank you for reading, and please provide some advice.

Congrats on your new home! It's good that you're looking into your heating system. You have two choices: Option 1 is to replace your old system with a Navien Combi Boiler for $22,000. It’s efficient and provides both heat and hot water, but it costs a lot. Option 2 is to fix the broken manifolds for $5,000. This option is cheaper and quicker, but it might lead to more problems since your system is old. Prices can vary, so consider getting a second opinion from another HVAC expert and check for local rebates on energy-efficient upgrades. Think about how long you plan to stay in your home to help you decide which option is best.

 

[Fitter30]

Contractor is more important than the brand. Contractor has to have a good relationship with the distributor. Asked about parts availability. Does the distributor have their own service person if there is a problem that your people are having a time fixing.