How can I assess competency

18 years ago

I am embarking on replacing (probably original) oil-fired boiler in a custom-designed home that was likely a start of the art, quality system in 1952. I have appointments set up with contractors who were recommended, but I still feel uneasy about my ability to assess their thoroughness and understanding of this type of system in conjunction with the characteristics of my home, e.g., radiant ceiling (hotwater), slab design foundation, cork tile throughout 1,000 SF ranch, 7.5 height ceilings.

I have done preliminary research to familiarize myself with terms and "parts of the system"; however, I have yet to achieve SME.

I would like to better understand what a competent contractor would do on the initial visit to assess the home and existing system and the types of choices that they should layout for me as I decide on the boiler replacement as well as contemporary upgrades to the entire system.

Thank you.

PS: I already cancelled one appointment, because I could sense the "little lady this is way beyond your understanding" mentality. I am reserving judgment on another outfit that included the question "is there anyone else who will be involved in this decision?" as part of the appointment scheduling discourse.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

cloudcrasher
18 years ago
Get several estimates and compare. A good Plumbing/Heating firm should be close in calculations. Although you may not understand all the terms and materials needed, the basic estimate should be similar. Compare brands for features and warranty. The BEST work is not always done by those who gave the highest estimate. Don't be sold items you don't need. Visit a plumbing supply store and ask questions. Good Luck
tigerdunes
18 years ago
kath

by your handle, I assume you live in SE Pennsylvania.

So what is prompting this update? Efficiency, problems with existing, age...?

what if any fuel alternatives are available other than oil?

do you have AC?

what is your electric rate?

how is your home's insulation qualities and overall envelope?

as far as identifying and qualifying an HVAC dealer as to competency, you can look at several factors including years in business, BBB inquiry as to complaints, public records as to any lawsuits, referrels from friends, etc. you get the picture.

I strongly would look at fuel alternatives to oil. Insist on load calulations in writing for accurate sizing. A system your age is most likely oversized which was very common from that time period.

IMO
Related Professionals
Hagerstown General Contractors · Asheville General Contractors · Gloucester General Contractors · Albert Lea General Contractors · Watertown General Contractors · Greensboro Home Remodeling · Greenfield Home Remodeling · Alpena Home Remodeling · Cody Home Remodeling · Sarasota Bathroom Remodelers · Sebring Bathroom Remodelers · Albany Bathroom Remodelers · Altoona Bathroom Remodelers · San Bernardino Bathroom Remodelers · Lewiston Bathroom Remodelers
kath_inseastpa
Original Author
18 years ago
Tiger,

1. Correct-o as to locale
2. Cost-savings, which I am assuming are in store due to 55 year old boiler; no problems; been using 470 gallons/annum for 1100 SF house for heat and domestic water for one adult and one teen.
3. natural gas is in street and house sits 80' from street - would need to bring line in - assume complications 'cause house is on cement slab and boiler is not near an exterior wall or can they use the oil line to bring in gas?; electric boiler; solar - no trees overhead; combo-of all?
4. no and no plan for AC
5. $0.1485 which is a total of (4) charges: generation, transmission, distribution, and transition
6. Mid-Fair (coming from an old farmhouse, it feels tight!)

Just had the first "contractor" come and they sent a recent college Psych' grad to do the preliminary assessment; next step is to send the "engineer" to assess the details: feels like the approach used by car salesman.
tigerdunes
18 years ago
Kath

a "psych" grad doing HVAC? Humm...
I think I would want an experienced pro,just my idea.

what is current cost of oil?

I realize fuel oil prices are down but if this was my home (and I realize I don't know any budget prices or installation obstacles), an oil boiler would be at the bottom of my list due to operating costs.

my first choice would be a high eff heat pump which would require overhead ductwork and keep existing oil boiler for those very cold days.

second choice would be to switch over to natural gas boiler.

I do think you need to thoroughly explore your options.

I suggest if operating costs are important to you, then run the attached fuel comparison calculator.

How long do you plan on being in house? I would not purchase a home with oil heat.

IMO

Here is a link that might be useful: Fuel Comparison Calculator
kath_inseastpa
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks Tiger. Just starting the research process and likely will not go with this first outfit - today they bring the Psych grad and an "engineer" on-site to assess. Two other contractors coming out, so the educational process has begun!
joeplumb
18 years ago
First off, unless the system is causing problems, 475 gal for a 1100 sq ft house is not all that bad. If you are lucky, a new system will probably save only about 100 gal/yr, which is now about $250/yr. I suspect the new system will cost at least $3000 which means that your payback will be more than 10 years. NOT GOOD. Moreover, unless you have a crystal ball, you and no one else would have a clue as to what the "best" choice of system is right now.
Personally, I would leave it alone until there is a compelling need for a replacement and then,and only then, pay for a professional heating engineer (not connected to the heating installer) to analyze your needs with detailed heat loss calculations and a thorough vetting of the many options such as heat pump, gas, condensing boilers, etc, etc., before opening the job for bids.