My home's gas water boiler broke after 30 years (original) and am looking to replace it. I noticed that I have two options: condensing (+90% AFUE) and non-condensing (~80% AFUE) boiler. I am leaning towards getting a non-condensing boiler because:
* Non-condensing boiler is cheaper to purchase and install
* Non-condensing boiler is less complex (minimal computer technology, less parts) so therefore would be cheaper to maintain and have a longer life-span
* Condensing boiler will save ~20% on my gas bill (~$300 savings annually). Cost of condensing boiler and installation is ~$4500 more then a non-condensing boiler, which is a 15 year payback. I'm not confident that the condensing boiler will last that long.

My questions are:
1. My local Home Depot, Rona, and Lowe's doesn't sell non-condensing boilers. Will it be difficult to find parts to fix a non-condensing boiler within the next 30 years?
2. I turn the heat on for only 4 months of the year. Does this damage the boiler in any way as the system sits idle for most of the year?
3. What should I be looking for in between different non-condensing boiler? Are there certain features I should be looking for? Should I be looking for an stainless steel heat exchanger?

non-condensing boilers don't have the Federal hi-eff rebate of $2,750 so subtract that from your $4,500 number and your looking at less than six years, I could show you the numbers that it will take way less than that. The 600 lbs cast iron monster will not walk itself down into your basement (4 men minimum a 1/2 day each ) all by itself. In my eyes the home centers are the last place to buy a heating system. Cast Iron boilers are a thing of the past. Yes they are simple and will last longer but you pay for it. Don't get me wrong, If you have a ci-boiler and it's in good condition stick with it.



Edited 2 times.

I actually live in Vancouver, BC, and am eligible for $1000. I have factored this into my $4,500.

My machinal room is on the ground floor, adjacent to my garage.

What is a CI boiler? Is this a non-condensing conventional boiler? If so, mine is not in working condition and needs to be replaced.

Do you know roughly how much longer does a non-condensing boiler last when compared to a condensing boiler? Would the maintenance fee also more expensive for a condensing boiler?

Ci is (cast iron). Condensing Boiler's shine in climates like yours. Now if you can simply wheel a ci boiler into place than do it. unfortunately you might have a Problem Finding a Plumber that will install something you purchase yourself, I stopped doing that 25 years ago because I can't and should not have to warranty the customers boiler. Saving $500 or $600 now sounds great until it breaks down in the middle of the night.

Why does a condensing unit shine in Vancouver's climate?

[en.wikipedia.org]

because of the 'latent heat' of water:

for every pound of condensate 900+ btus are 'recovered'

or

for every gallon, 7500+ btu

however

it takes 1,700 pounds of steam to make 1 pound of water

==============================================

"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638



Edited 1 times.

30 years of work ! Why is such a technique so rare now? If I were you, I would try not to save on the boiler and choose something of the highest quality and convenient. So that you don't have to replace it after installing it. When I needed to buy a similar technique, I turned to [dynamicpg.com.au]. They helped me pick up really high-quality equipment. In addition, they are engaged in maintenance, installation and repair of such equipment, which makes me very happy. It is easier to order everything from one company.



Edited 3 times.

because the 'big box stores' have brainwashed the consumer into 'never stop improving'


the 'technique(s) is/are still in use by the informed and the 'wealthy' who live in homes 'specced' by archichitects

==============================================

"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638