headleyj
ArboristSite Guru
Yeah, that was version 0.1 It is best to use a very short 90* and allow it to flow out the top effectifly limiting the water surface area exposed to atmoshphere (which is what creates steam). I had an issue when my 90* was a bit too tall and the boiler leaned to the rear slightly, this allowed water to leak from my DHW cover (stupid design). I think I might just thread the pipe and add a black iron 90* to neaten things up a bit. If your DHW cover isn't sealed, pull it off and keep an eye on your water level after you add the 90* and are filling it.
Oh yeah, don't worry about the water in the 90* freezing, I had mine on in -15* weather with no freezing.
I also found a good pipe to use to extend the chimney without the 500lb single wall shaver adapter pipe. The inside (stainless pipe) of the Selkirk metalbestos 266036 double wall smoke pipe just fits over the factory chimney. Flaten out the crimps a bit, cut a small notch on the outer black pipe to allow for a large hose clamp, and slide it all the way down to your roof, or even the top of the water tank if you desire. You will now have a standard pipe size allowing for extension and cap options, it will be insulated (1/4 air gap rates for 6" to combustables). I used single wall pipe to extend my chimney last year and it worked for about two weeks until it clogged up because of not being insulated. I got my here: http://www.acehardwareoutlet.com/(alslozy1x5lpdx55wmktsxit)/ProductDetails.aspx?SKU=45065&
I'm building a shed over my boiler and wood storage now, but I hope to have some time to add insulation before I fire up the boiler. Does anyone know if I can fit a piece of rigid foam below the water tank, but above the square tubing the bottom of the siding attaches to, or should I just shoot spray foam under the tank?
Good to know it won't freeze. Yes the DHW plate needs a redesign. Thanks for the advice. I ordered my Rayco controller today too.
Spray Foam - I wanted to spray foam the entire thing. Kits are $400. If I had confidence welds were not an issue, I wouldn't hesitate to spray foam it, but based on some things I've heard on this board, welds may be an issue. It's easier to pull batt/ board insulation out than scrape off foam IMO. I'll try batt/ foam board insulation this year and see how it goes.
My BIL's Hardy has board lining the outer walls with a little bit of batt in there. Same size house as mine, he fills his 2x a day regardless of weather adn keeps his house stat at 78°. I'm at 73-74 and 2-3x/ day....hopefully these fixes will bring me down to 2x/day.
Keep us updated on what you decide.
Again, thanks for the advice.