LESLIE: Steve in Delaware needs some help replacing a boiler. So this is a project you want to do yourself?
STEVE: Yes, I do.
TOM: Have you ever replaced a boiler before, Steve?
STEVE: No, I haven’t. I’ve done a lot of hot water heaters. This one – the existing one I have now looks pretty straightforward – one flow, one return pipe – and I’m thinking about attempting it. Just wanted to know what may be – what possible difficulties I can encounter.
TOM: Well, I mean – I don’t necessarily always like to recommend that people do a big HVAC project like that because when you get into it and start having problems you need to be able to solve them. This is probably not the best do-it-yourself project. Replacing a water heater and replacing a boiler are two completely separate projects and I think it probably worth your while having the plumber help you with this.
STEVE: OK. I sort of agree. I think that’s what I’ll probably do.
TOM: Alright, well we were so glad we could help you make your mind up, Steve. (chuckles)
STEVE: OK. One other quick question?
TOM: Yes.
STEVE: I have a radiator that I can’t get any heat out of …
TOM: OK.
STEVE: … and I have bled it and had no luck; so I was wondering if you have any thoughts on the problem.
TOM: Hmm. Do we know that we’re getting water flow to that particular radiator? I’m wondering if the water is being blocked somewhere down the line.
STEVE: Well, in the basement I do notice it drops off on some of the pipes. It seems like the return pipe – if I’m right – the return pipe is getting warm but the flow pipe isn’t.
TOM: Supply pipe. Another good reason, Steve, to have the plumber install the boiler. You’ll probably get all this sorted out at the same time.
STEVE: OK.
TOM: Alright, Steve? Good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT, but we think you’re making the right decision not doing this one yourself.
Leave a Reply