Calgary Hydronics Solutions Blog

Radiant Floor Installation.

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 09:26:13 PST

In our Calgary climate a radiant floor in the basement is a great option. Especially in those homes that have lower level walkouts. Radiant slab heat or radiant floor heat makes the floor so much warmer, great for kids who like playing on the floor, and also great for those who suffer from cold floor problems like sore ankles. Radiant slab heating, when well designed and properly installed need not be expensive. The problem we have, is some builders want to take the prices we supply for a quality hydronic system, and apply their markup. Tubing cost aside, we typically install a quality Canadian made NTI Trinity LX series, high efficiency condensing gas boiler in a new home with a 3 car garage and around 2,000 sq ft of basement radiant slab for between $8,000 to $10,000. Depending of course on the number of zones and the complexity of the system. Yet some builders want to charge upwards of $15,000 for the same system. Quite the markup I would say.

We suggest to many people, who are having a new home built, and who are considering using radiant slab heat in the house and or garage, to call us directly and explore the options. We highly recommend, that you at the very least have your builder install the radiant tubing prior to having the concrete poured. Although, this also comes at a mark up from a price that we would normally supply to the builders. As a matter of convenience, most builders will undertake the hiring of subtrades for the mechanical work (plumbing, heating and ventilation). For a better return on your dollar, one might be better off approaching the heating contractor directly and ask for separate pricing on the radiant heat option. We are not saying all builders work this way, but rest assured they are not supplying the service at mere cost. A point to ponder perhaps.

When hydronic radiant heat is chosen, part of the permit requirement for many jurisdictions, is that one must obtain a structure heat loss calculation, loop layout and heat load data. Important in ensuring the system is well designed and the boiler chosen has been properly sized for the application. This is all taken care of with an experienced hydronic heating contractor.

Considering building a house soon or in the foreseeable future? Want a quality and affordable hydronic heating system? Give us a call to discuss pricing and see how it compares with the price from your builder. It might surprise you how much you can save by dealing directly with a hydronic contractor.
But hey, it's your money!

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Calgary Hydronics Solutions 403-796-4768

Updated ecoEnergy Rebate information

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 14:19:20 PST

This is an updated version of an earlier post making light of the ecoEnergy retrofit program and the requirements. The most recent program will end by March 31, 2012.

And while the incentive and/or rebate programs are ending, it must be stated that the necessity to upgrade to energy efficient products is no less important. The long term savings from using energy efficient heating products such as high efficiency furnaces and boilers, is and always will be there. The savings can be as high as a 30% in your gas consumption depending of the quality of the product once properly installed and set up.

More information has now been made available in regards to the ecoENERGY retrofit program. To register for the program as a new participant follow the link below,

Separate Alberta Provincial rebates are also available through Climate Change Central. To see their website click here.

And this program is slated to end on March 31, 2012 as well.

Contact us for more here for more information.

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

Nu-Air Enerboss FanCoils & AirHandlers

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:02:22 PST

Check out the Enerboss Series of Airhandlers and Fancoils. From Nu-Aire of Canada.

They offer great solutions for new home construction and renovations. Options include an integrated fancoil with a HRV (heat recovery ventilator) option for better indoor air quality and humidity control.
They also offer stand alone HRV's and ERV's (energy recovery ventilators) for both residential and commercial applications.

Click the link below:

Enerboss Integrated Airhandlers

For Nu-Aire Products and Information click here.

Visit our website at the link below:

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

Or contact us below

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

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What are condensing boilers?

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 06:39:19 PST

The heat exchanger pictured is from an Onex Condensing boiler and is used for illustration purposes.

Many condensing boilers use this type of heat exchanger which is made of Stainless Steel which can withstand the low PH of the condensate byproduct. As shown, the stainless steel tubing, which the boiler fluid will circulate through, are spaced fairly close together to allow for maximum contact with the hot combustion gases during the combustion process. The burner allows for even distribution of the air/gas fuel mixture for consistent heat distribution to the heat exchanger.

When one runs a high efficiency condensing gas boiler at a low output temperature, ideal for low temperature radiant applications, the more the boiler will condense the the exhaust flue gases and extract the latent heat therein. Ideally one would like to see system water temperatures returning to the boiler at less than 120F. Instead of the flue gas condensing in the atmosphere after it leaves the chimney, as with mid-efficient chimney aspirated boilers, the condensing happens within the heat exchanger of the high efficiency boiler. Once the latent heat is extracted from the condensate, the condensate then runs out to drain. This condensate can be acidic, typically in the PH range of 3 to 5. Some jurisdictions require that this acidic condensate be neutralized prior to disposal through the sanitary drain. This is done with the use of a calcium carbonate based retention bed that allows the condensate enough contact time to neutralize to a PH of 7 or so.

With the emergence of condensing boiler technology a number of years ago, the evolution of the technology is such that an efficiency rating of 94% to 98% can be achieved when the boiler is used for low temperature radiant applications.

Low temperature radiant is used in concrete slab applications for heating basements and garages. This would be referred to as high mass radiant, in that the concrete would have a thickness of 4 or more inches. This amount of mass, perhaps several tons in the average basement or garage,would take time to respond to temperature fluctuations. Thus we would highly recommend using a slab sensor as well as an air sensor to maintain a constant slab temperature. This is not suitable for programmable temperature setback due to the high mass and the length of time it would take for the mass to heat up or cool down.

Another application for low temperature radiant would be in a concrete overpour. Where tubing is laid on the top of a subfloor (where the floor system has been engineered for the additional weight of the overpour material, typically Gypcrete which us a concrete/gypsum slurry) and lightweight concrete, or gypcrete is poured to a depth sufficient enough to cover the tubing. Typically to a depth of 1 1/2" or 2". This type of application is referred to as low mass radiant, where the thin layer of concrete/gypsum type material responds quicker to temperature fluctuations. Again a combination of slab and air sensors are recommended, and this application would respond to programmable temperature setbacks.

The other low temperature radiant application often used would be referred to as in joist heating. Where the tubing is run between the joists, under the subfloor. Sufficient spacing between the tubing and subfloor as well as an adequate air gap is recommended, as is the use of reflective foil insulation to help radiate the heat upwards through the flooring materials. This could also be referred to as low mass radiant. It does take time for the temperature in the joist space to warm up sufficiently to feel the warmth through the floor. Although the water temperature through this type of medium is typically a bit higher, the boiler can still sufficiently condense enough to maintain a high level of efficiency. Especially if the boiler is controlled by means of an outdoor reset curve, and most modern high efficiency boilers have control packages which includes outdoor reset. Outdoor reset allows the control package to adjust the boiler output temperatures in relation to the outside temperature.

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Boiler water management

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 07:50:25 PST

The item pictured is a refractometer for checking freeze protection levels of glycol in boiler and/or snowmelt systems. Professional boiler service technicians should have one of these items as well as a digital PH tester and a digital TDS (total dissolved solids) tester. Field testing of boiler fluid while onsite performing routine service or repair on boiler systems is just plain common sense.

We can not overstate the importance of maintaining the boiler water or fluid. System PH, TDS (total dissolved solids) and if using glycol for freeze protection, exactly what the freeze protection level is.
Most newer boilers these days have robust stainless steel heat exchangers that are somewhat forgiving as far as system PH goes. However for warranty purposes and overall system longevity and well being, the fluid condition is critical. Some boilers, more specifically those boilers that use aluminum or aluminum silicate in the heat exchanger are more prone to failure with adverse PH levels. Also these aluminum heat exchangers require an aluminum safe glycol such as Rhogard. Any virgin glycol that does NOT contain corrosion inhibitors may be safe to use with aluminum as long as a system protector such as long as an aluminum safe inhibitor such as Pro-Tek 922 is added to the glycol mixture.
This is far too complicated of a field for the average homeowner to worry about and should be left to an experienced boiler service professional.

Turbity, or rather the presence of particulate matter suspended in the fluid can lead to significant wear and tear on system components. Most boiler systems will benefit with the addition of a side stream filter system that can help clear particulate and other matter from the fluid. This is especially helpful in those systems containing glycol.
Most boiler service tradesman should know a thing or two in regards to this matter and one would be well served to query their service person on this subject.
Our choice of boiler chemicals, glycol and handling practices are friendly to the environment.

We offer comprehensive boiler service, boiler addition to boiler maintenance solutions in regards to planned and preventative maintenance that address all the concerns. We have, through our extensive boiler service and repair experience, determined that regular preventative maintenance can go along way towards cutting the overall costs of owning boiler systems. This would also include ways of increasing energy efficiency through "green" options when replacing the boiler, system components, upgrading the boiler system control package or upgrading to a modern condensing boiler.

For more information, please visit our website by clicking on the link below:

WeKnowBoilers.ca

Or contact us directly at:

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

Before calling a heating service company...some things to look out for.

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:54:26 PST

Picture courtesy of blog.mlive.com and is available on the web for illustration purposes.

Heating service companies, ourselves included, run a business and have employee's we need to pay when they are called out to look at a heating and/or cooling problem. Some heating/cooling problems, whether it be a boiler, hot water tank, furnace, heat pump, ac unit or air make up unit present their own unique set of challenges for homeowners and service technicians alike.

The costs associated with these emergency call outs, especially if they are during after hours or on holidays can add up rather quickly and for the most part these situations can be alleviated with proper system maintenance and a familiarity with your own mechanical system always helps.

Look for the following things BEFORE you call a service company:

1) In the case of high efficiency appliances like tankless hot water heaters, boilers, furnaces and the like,is to physically check the intake/exhaust pipes of your system. In most case and with the right atmospheric conditions, ie. low temperatures and high humidity levels,the intake or exhaust could be blocked with ice, snow or frost. These need to be kept clear year round.

2) Check the power switch going to your heating unit, is it on or perhaps has the circuit breaker tripped.

3)Check the condition of the furnace filter, is it plugged or does it appear overly dirty, then it is time to change the filter.

4) Is the gas on, or is the gas cock in the off position. And if your unit has a pilot, is the pilot on?

Any number of these items could be the cause for your equipment failure and by checking to see if any of the above problems are present could save a costly service call by a heating technician.

And of course proper regular scheduled maintenance on all your heating, cooling and ventilation equipment could cut down on any future surprises down the road. Be proactive and have your systems checked on a regular basis and not just when things go awry.

If all else fails give us a call at:

403-796-4768

We handle boiler service, boiler repair, boiler maintenance, new boiler installations, hot water tank repair, hot water tank service, and hot water tank replacements. We can also handle emergency furnace repair, furnace service and furnace replacements. Cross connection control testing and certification.
Indoor air quality concerns (IAQ), water treatment from water filtration to water softeners.

HPS Pump Panels

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:00:12 PST

The picture is courtesy of HPS controls.

HPS Controls, another Canadian company offering boiler and hydronic pump stations. Numerous options are available. We have used these pump stations with great success and we highly recommend them for a wide range of pump and zoning solutions. Primary loop, primary/secondary, high temperature, low temperature and or a mix of temperature output options means they have a solution for any hydronic/boiler system. They look sharp when installed in a mechanical room and compliment any boiler system. A more recent addition to their line are new zone control boards that offer either high or low temperature applications from each pump output which is great for today's high efficiency condensing boiler systems.

HPS Controls are based in Edmonton, that means a quick turn around time on replacement parts. Great for future service.
Take a look at their website by clicking on the link below,

HPS Controls Website

There is a host of information on our Calgary Hydronics Solutions Website.

Or contact us directly at 403-796-4768

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Taco hydronic system priority zoning pump

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 06:00:12 PST

The picture is courtesy of Taco, and is used for illustration purposes.

Taco, ever the leader in hydronic system components including pumps, zone/pump control stations, to this rather simple idea for priority switching of boiler/hydronic zones. Most hydronic service companies, ourselves included have often been tasked with the addition of an additional zone to an existing hydronic system and now finally we have a viable option than won't break the bank.

This new priority zoning pump can receive the thermostatic demand directly which both turns the pump on and with the use of an internal switch within this pump's PC board, it will also signal the boiler to fire (end switch, for you old school codgers)). This pump can then supply a DHW (domestic hot water) demand or any other zoning demand in a typical hydronic boiler system. Including the ability to switch on an additional piece of external equipment, such as another pump.
We like these Taco priority zoning pumps for their simplicity and have employed many in numerous applications in the field with outstanding results.

Here is a direct link to the Taco HVAC website , for more information on this priority pump as well as other quality products from Taco.

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

A BBB accredited business!

HVAC system maintenance

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:35:34 PST

We can never over emphasis the importance of regular and professional system maintenance and service on all your home's mechanical systems and most important of all the HVAC equipment. Be it a furnace, boiler, HRV's or air make up units, it is all vital to your quality and comfort of life. It adds value to your home especially when you decide to put your home on the market, as a poorly designed and/or poorly maintained HVAC systems tend to be a liability and will result in a lower than expect offer on your home.

Proactive maintenance versus reactive maintenance. Proactive means that one takes an active role in ensuring your system is maintained regularly by a trained HVAC professional contractor. Consider it as a value added service for your home. It ensures system reliability and efficient operation.

Also it has been shown that regular maintenance actually saves money in the long run. Equipment runs more efficiently with regular service, not to mention the increased service life.

Think of how poorly your car would run without the required service intervals. The expensive equipment in your home is no different. Furnaces, boilers, HRV's, air make up units and other mechanical systems in your home can and will run better, last longer and run more efficiently with regular care. Your home plumbing system including the drainage system, hot and cold water distribution systems, faucets, exhaust fans, to name a few, all comprise a home's mechanical system.

A properly maintained home can add to the resale value when it comes time to sell. The overall appearance of the house adds curb appeal as it looks good from the outside. But what about the inside? How old are the appliances, furnace and or boiler and other critical components of the mechanical system. It is of no value to anyone if the property looks immaculate on the outside, yet the mechanical system on the inside has been neglected for many years.

I see this all the time during my mechanical inspections. More and more people are asking for mechanical inspections to coincide with the normal home inspection. I am a proponent of home mechanical inspections as they help identify any potential problems and/or add peace of mind. The average cost for a thorough mechanical inspection can start at a mere $250 and progress from there depending on the size of the home and the complexity of the mechanical system. But believe me, it is money well spent, as it adds to your peace of mind and ensures you are making a wise choice in your new home purchase. Remember, this could well be the largest investment you could make in your lifetime. And the last thing you would want to do is purchase a lemon and or someones prior problems.

So be prudent and along with the home inspection, demand a mechanical inspection as well. We have walked into homes where home inspectors have missed critical problems and once the home is sold these problems then become yours to fix. I am not saying all home inspectors lack the necessary knowledge when it comes to the home mechanical system, however there are enough of them out there who lack the required know how and the technical expertise.
And this should be a concern to all. So make damn sure to have a reputable mechanical contractor complete a comprehensive inspection of the home mechanical system to find and identify existing problems or potential future problems that can become severe and or costly in the future.

And always demand a thorough duct and furnace cleaning, including the dryer exhaust vent and hot water tank before agreeing on a purchase price. Why would you want to breathe dust and dirt, pet hair and dander and other possible contaminants in the furnace and associated cold and warm air supply ducting?

Be very picky when it comes to the purchase of your new home as you would want years of trouble free living in a home you just spent big dollars on.

So be prudent, go over the home with a fine tooth comb, so to speak.

A mere word to the wise! An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Call us at Calgary Hydronics Solutions at 403-796-4768

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NY Thermal Trinity Boilers

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:33:52 PST

The NTI Trinity LX boilers are among the best if not the best high efficiency condensing gas boiler on the market today. How can we say that? Simple really! We primarily install NTI products thus are familiar with NY Thermal boilers and proficient in quality installation methods. Another benefit for us is these are Canadian made boilers and where else would you expect a quality product made for Canadian climate extremes.

They are capable of handling three separate temperature input requirements, take for example, domestic hot water production by means of an indirect fired hot water tank where the boiler operates at 180 F, then perhaps a fancoil unit that can take a temperature range from 140 F to 170 F based on outside temperature and finally low temperature radiant with a temperature range of 95 F to 120 F, again based on outside temperature. With outdoor reset, the boiler operates through the use of a heating curve, where the output temperature for space heating demands are based on the outside temperature.

Not only do we install these quality boilers, (almost exclusively) we also perform boiler service and boiler repair on all models of NTI boilers, including the NTI Matrix, The Trinity line of boilers including the T-series, the TI series as well as the LX series. We carry quality original equipment replacement parts which are genuine NTI boiler parts.

If you have Trinity boiler problems or perhaps a poor installation or application, please look us up. We solve many boiler problems others may have missed.

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

IBC Heating Products

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 08:51:26 PST

This picture is courtesy of IBC, and for more information on their products, please visit their WEBSITE.

IBC Technologies, another Canadian innovator of quality condensing boiler technology, water heaters(both indirect and a commercial combination unit) and air handlers.
IBC VFC series condensing gas boilers are capable of handling 3 temperature heat requirements. From low temperature radiant slab heating, to supplying a fancoil or airhandler to domestic hot water production with the use of an indirect fired hot water heater.

Their SL 80-399 model is rated for commercial applications and large residential applications. Designed for both space heating and indirect domestic hot water production.
Click here for more information on the SL model condensing gas boiler.

We offer many heating system services, including all makes and models of boilers. And be sure to stop by and "like" us on our Facebook page, by clicking here.

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

Calgary Boiler service and boiler repair!

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:25:08 PST

The pictures are courtesy of NTI (New York Thermal)

Our motto is to fix things right the first time, which boils down to the fact that we do not band aid repairs. We are in the habit of providing a total solution to common problems with boiler systems, hydronic system and other HVAC systems. We thrive on the fact that our repairs and or new installations will stand the test of time. We are not into make work projects that will add to our service workload down the road.

We offer affordable and professional boiler service, boiler repair in the Calgary area. We know boilers best and why not let us check your system over. Our rates are among the lowest in the city with the vast majority of problems being solved the first time which results in a reliable boiler/hydronic system.

From boiler parts, boiler service, boiler maintenance to boiler chemicals we have you covered.

Visit our website, by clicking HERE!

We are a BBB accredited business! Why not look us up on the BBB website

Now in our 3rd year of independent business, serving Calgary, Okotoks, High River, Strathmore, Chestermere and many more places in between.
Also offering hot water tank repair, hot water tank replacments, furnace service, furnace repair and cross connection control as required by the City of Calgary.

Lochinvar Knight Residential Boilers

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:01:13 PST

Lochinvar Knight, manufacturers of quality residential condensing gas boilers in either floor or wall mount applications. Stainless steel heat exchangers ensure optimum heat transfer and protection against corrosion.

Capable of achieving efficiencies near 98% when used for low temperature radiant heating. When using condensing gas boilers for heating low temperature radiant zones the output temperatures are typically under 130 F. Thus the temperature of the returning fluid can be 120 F or less which is optimum for condensing. When high efficiency boilers condense, they strip the latent heat out of the flue gas prior to being vented to atmosphere. The lower you can run a condensing gas boiler, temperature wise, the better they condense and thus higher efficiencies are achieved.
The control system offers outdoor reset, domestic hot water priority and diagnostics.
They offer other quality products such as pool and spa heaters, water heating products, solar packages and indirect boiler fired hot water tanks.
These boilers are available in both floor mount models (KBN series) or wall mount boilers (WBN series).

For more information on the Lockinvar Knight KBN/WBN series boilers, click on the link below, and if you have any questions or concerns in regards to these or any other boiler systems, please do not hesitate in giving us a call. Our vast experience in boiler service, boiler repair, boiler maintenance and new boiler installations ensures you get top notch service and experience.

Lochinvar Knight Residential boiler information

Be sure to check out our website at the link below,

WeKnowBoilers.ca

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

A Better Business Accredited Business

403-796-4768

Cheap is not always the wise choice!

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 11:22:49 PST

This can never be overstated, and while fiscal responsibility and prudence is important, cheap is almost always a short cut and/or a band aid solution.
There is a quote by John Ruskin, and it goes like this,
"There is nothing in the world, that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper. And he who considers price alone, is that man's lawful prey", end of quote.

And that quote about sums up the whole quantity or quality debate in 2 sentences. We run across the "well they can do it cheaper" saying alot in our dealings with some customers. Mostly new customers, as our regular customers are well aware of the quality and reliability of work a slightly higher cost can afford. And it is a tough sell in many cases where price alone is the mitigating factor, and it matters not that the equipment selection or installation methods are superior.

Our bread and butter has been, and will continue to be, the repair or upgrade of boiler systems installed by others. Our biggest challenge is finding knowledgeable and experienced boiler installation personnel. And judging from what I have encountered in the field, I would say finding experienced personnel is also the biggest challenge faced by our competition. There were not enough young people being enticed into the building mechanical trades in the previous 10 years or so, for whatever reason. And thus, we either have people with tons of experience who are in their mid to late 40's or early 50's with the "old school" mentality OR we have young people just beginning their journey into the building mechanical trades and they have little or no experience. There does not seem to be many good, qualified and experienced people willing to work on residential boiler systems, for whatever reasons. The market is there, and the potential to earn a comfortable living is available. Personally speaking, there are many experienced boiler installers working in the commercial sector where there is better money to be made and thus are not willing to migrate over, or return to, the residential side of boiler system installation.

Modern condensing boilers are installed far differently than the "old school" mid-efficient, high temperature boilers of the past. The installation methods have changed, the control packages are different and thus the installation personnel need to be re educated in modern high efficiency condensing boiler theory and installation methods. I must say, with some conviction that this "theory" and "know how" is sadly lacking.
This I am sad to say, has been our "niche" market, where boilers, boiler components and related equipment have been improperly installed. I use the word "sad" for a reason, in that these boiler system repairs and or upgrades, that have been and remain, our "niche" market, always come at additional expense to the homeowner. The "sad" part in all this, is that the homeowner having just paid for the new system a few years prior, is now having to spend more money to make things right or to fix problems that would not have occured if the system was properly installed in the first place.

Please click here, to be taken to a previous blog I wrote about problems that can occur prior to and during new home construction and or renovations.

So picking an reputable company with the required experience on the equipment you have, and not always opting for a "cheap" fix will help to ensure the correct diagnosis and solution is found the first time. Or making sure the chosen company has sufficient experience to ensure your new heating system is installed correctly and works as intended for years to come.

http://www.calgaryhydronicssolutions.com

The importance of HVAC system maintenance.

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:03:20 PST

I can never remember how many homes I have visited whose homeowners have had problems with their HVAC systems. These systems have numerous problems that have needed to be addressed long ago. Once we diagnose and price these repairs we often get the proverbial sob stories of how they can't afford to pay for the required repairs. I continuously remind these people that regular and professional maintenance on this equipment can drastically reduce the overall operating costs of the system and add a measure of reliability and efficiency.
HVAC maintenance includes furnaces, boilers, air makeup units, dehumidifiers, condensate pumps and the like. It is human nature to procrastinate and ignore the requirements of system maintenance. Now would you let your car go for years without regular service? I think not. Why then is it okay to let perhaps the most important pieces of equipment in your rather expensive house go for years without proper maintenance until something fails.
This makes absolutely no sense and yet it happens more often than not and then we hear numerous sob stories about how people can not afford to fix the problem(s).
Call your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems) professional and become proactive rather than reactive. It can save money and aggravation down the road.

Wake up and smell the coffee so to speak!

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

service@calgaryhydronicssolutions.com

403-796-4768

A BBB (Better Business Bureau) accredited business!

Furnace repair, furnace service, boiler repair, boiler service, boiler replacement, air quality, water quality, hot water tanks, system efficiency improvements and much more!

Inexperienced boiler/plumbing technicians

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 12:14:11 PST

I want to be clear that I am not targeting any specific company in this blog. The industry trend seems to accept any person who walks in the plumbing company's door with little or no experience and/or with an embellished resume.

This is happening far to often in the industry and it is the customer who ultimately pays the price. Either in shoddy workmanship, high prices or property damage from improperly installed equipment.

Why should you pay these premium rates? When the company will send out so called technicians who are barely out of diapers. It's wrong and the habit needs to stop.
So if they decide to send out these kids who are barely out of school why do they not give a break on rates. They won't because there is money to be made.

I know for a fact that companies who employ the so call PSI system (Plumbers Success International) will ensure that you are paying rates well over $200 per hour. These rates are hidden in the up front pricing most companies employ, but it is basically highway robbery.

You might as well hire Jed Clampett for all the good it will do. Be sure to ask for an experienced technician with more than a few months of experience. This is sure to avoid problems down the road.

Call an experienced company with the trained technicians who take pride in their work. These technicians are few and far between.

Be wise and do your homework, check references and call the BBB (Better Business Bureau), after all it is your home and your money!

Calgary Hydronics Solutions, the company who takes pride in their work! So if you need quality professional service, why call the companies with cartoon characters on their vehicles. Who do you think pays for that form of advertising? It is you as the paying customer.

We are BBB accredited and fully experienced. And perform quality top notch work, without the high prices. But hey, it's your money and your decision!

403-796-4768

Hot Water Recirculation

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 08:40:33 PST

For those of you who have a large house where some of the fixtures, ie tub/shower or sink are a distance from the hot water tank and find it a waste to run alot of water before the hot water finally reaches the fixture. We have a solution for you! Grundfos offers the Comfort Pump option, perfect for this problem. This pump comes with a timer as well as an aquastat option which will turn the unit off when the desired water temperature has been achieved. This ensures only the minimal amount of water is circulated through which prevents both pipe and hot water tank erosion especially in areas with extremely hard water such as here in Calgary.
Hot water recirculation helps save energy and cuts down on water consumption!

Click on the link below for information:

Grundfos Comfort Pump info

For more information, visit our website:

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

Or contact us directly at:

Calgary Hydronics Solutions
403-796-4768

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 10:34:45 PST

Calgary Hydronics Solutions FaceBook Page

Check out our Facebook Page! If you are in need of quality and cost effective HVAC services, cross connection control testing, hot water tanks and more, check us out and give us a call.
Here in the Calgary area heating season is upon us now and this is as good a time as any to have your heating system checked over.

We specialize in boilers like, all makes and models as well as NTI or NY Thermal Trinity T, TI, LX or Matrix combo units. Lochinvar Knight, Buderus, Munchkin, Laars, Superhot, IBC boilers as well as all makes and models of furnaces

Boiler and Heating Systems service.

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 11:43:29 PST

We are Calgary Hydronics Solutions, and we know boilers best. You cannot replace knowledge and experience when it comes to service and repair of the most important equipment in your home, the central heating system. Our service pricing is among the lowest in the city and we have plenty of experience in the field.
We service and repair all makes and models of boilers, furnaces and hot water systems. Service and install water softeners, whole house water filtration systems and boiler water filtration system.
Boiler chemicals, boiler glycol and boiler parts. Boiler leaks, boiler pressure problems, boiler corrosion, boiler pumps.

We primarily install NTI or New York Thermal Trinity boilers and we carry common parts for these boilers plus we service and repair all makes and models of boilers, furnaces and domestic hot water heating equipment. Those homeowners with NTI systems can benefit from our years of experience in maintaining, servicing and repairing these boilers.
Most boiler problems are a direct result of poor installation methods and/or poor preventative maintenance. Be proactive and get your heating systems professionally serviced on a regular basis and keep your system operating at optimal efficiency,

Preventative maintenance service is best done prior to heating season and well before the real cold sets in. As with most service industries, the heating service companies become extremely busy during heating season as it is human nature to procrastinate and/or put off planned heating equipment service until something breaks. This is a reactive approach and most always results in a high repair cost. One must remember to treat your home heating and cooling systems no differently than you would treat your vehicles and service them at the necessary intervals to avoid costly breakdowns and/or after hours service calls.

Licensed, insured and BBB accredited!

Visit us by clicking on the link below:

WeKnowBoilers.ca

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

NTI Trinity Fire Tube Boilers

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:57:47 PST

Picture and information courtesy of NTI.

NTI, or New York Thermal is a Canadian leader in condensing boiler technology and adding this Trinity Firetube condensing model to their line of boilers. From their first generation T series boilers, through the TI and LX series boilers, NTI continues to increase efficiency.

Click here for more info on this boiler!

This boiler incorporates a vertical boiler heat exchanger which fires in a downwards direction which is different from their T, TI and LX series which use a horizontal boiler heat exchanger with horizontal fire.

These new Firetube boilers use practically the same Sola control system as in the LX Series boilers. In our mind the LX series of boilers are among the best, if not the best condensing gas boiler on the market today.
We service, repair and install all NTI products including the NTI Matrix Furnace, the NTI T series, the NTI TI series and the NTI LX series of condensing gas boilers. All these systems continue to be among the best condensing gas boilers on the market today. Proper installation practices along with regular maintenance is key to proper and reliable boiler operation. We ensure these boilers are installed properly and serviced regularly to ensure efficient operation and years of reliable trouble free service.

Our familiarization with NY Thermal products is extensive with a proven track record of happy customers and energy efficiency second to none. If you want a quality product, be sure to look us up.

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

We make boilers work!

Brazed Plate Heat Exchangers

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:13:49 PDT

The picture is for comparison purposes, the item one the left is a shell and tube heat exchanger as compared the the plate to plate heat exchanger in the next picture.

Years ago shell and tube heat exchangers were really the only option for many hydronic heat applications. With the advent of the brazed plate heat exchanger and the fact that their cost is now fairly reasonable, they have become the choice in indirect heating and chilling applications.

Brazed plate heat exchangers are, in our opinion, the best option for indirect heating in such applications as snowmelt, pool & spa heating and in Poly B applications. And they are suitable in many indirect heating situations. We prefer the brazed plate heat exchangers compared to the tube and shell models (pictured at far left). One big benefit of the brazed plate units is they are of smaller size and less weight then the traditional shell and tube heat exchangers and yet they offer superior heat transfer capabilities. They are available in either single wall or double wall construction. Another and perhaps bigger reason for using the brazed plate heat exchanger would be that the heat input requirement is much lower than the shell and tube units.

Our experience with these brazed plate models ensures we have used them in many systems, and have put in place a fluid cleaning system (filter system) to ensure the fluid is free of debris that can clog up a heat exchanger.
Look for us to cover the sidestream filter option as a way to clean up boiler system fluid to promote longer life of the boiler, heat exchangers and system components.

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Calgary Hydronics Solutions 403-796-4768

"We Make Boilers Work"

Tankless water heaters, not the best option in Canada.

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 11:26:32 PST

They are not the be-all and end-all solution for domestic hot water applications. In fact, we believe these tankless units are over rated and not really a great cost effective option for our Alberta climate.

Here in our northerly climate, tankless hot water heaters may work fine and provide adequate hot water flow rates during our spring, summer and fall seasons. However, in most parts of Canada, during our cold winter seasons, the typical inlet water temperatures can be under 40 F. So what this means, is that the temperature rise gap or delta (difference) is greater. If say, the inlet water temperature here in Calgary in January is 35 F, and you want 115 F hot water, that is an 80 degree F temperature rise. This means the unit will only flow a smaller amount of water in GPM's than what is claimed. Most of the tankless water heaters are designed and manufactured in warmer climates, ie Japan, the US or Europe. So the flow rates, rated as GPM (gallons per minute) are much lower here in our colder climate than the climate where the unit was designed.That could mean during our winter months while someone is taking a shower for example, and the dishwasher or wash machine turns on, with the average tankless unit this will mean a drop in available hot water flow to your shower, resulting perhaps in a rather unexpected cold blast of water.

Everyone is raving about the benefits of a tankless unit. And yes, while they make more sense than a hot water tank, only because they heat hot water on demand and do not re-heat water stored within a tank. They really are not the ultimate answer as far as hot water heating is concerned, at least here in Calgary, Alberta and parts north during the cold months. Other options are available, and an experienced HVAC service person should be able to come up with an economical and energy saving solution for your particular application.

If you want more information on what options are best for you and your house and family situation, give us a call. We have the answers you need! The options are numerous and varied.

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

A BBB accredited business.

Heating equipment and controls

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 20:10:08 PDT

We are a Calgary based HVAC services company specializing in heating system repair, heating system service and heating system maintenance.

This includes furnace service, furnace repair, furnace maintenance, boiler service, boiler repair, boiler maintenance.
Look for us under calgary boiler repair, calgary boiler service and calgary boiler maintenance as well as calgary furnace repair, calgary furnace service and calgary furnace maintenance.

We also offer hot water tank replacements, cross connection control testing and much more.
Offering energy efficient options and promoting green choices in our equipment selection and installation methods.

Here is some important information from Natural Resources Canada in regards to choosing energy efficient heating equipment and controls.
We all can do our part when it comes to heating equipment upgrades in our own homes.

As well there are energy rebates available for residents of Alberta through the Climate Change Central link below.

Heating equipment and controls

Boilers, furnaces, heat pumps and much more.

Climate Change Central Rebate Information

Boiler Pressure Relief Valves

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 14:08:52 PDT

Pressure relief valves are one of, if not the most important component on the boiler. Crucial in preventing over pressuring of the boiler system due to pump failure, expansion tank failure or pressure feed regulator failure. (to name a few)

Ensure your Boiler Service Professional has checked this device,and should your Pressure Relief Valve be leaking, call your Boiler Service Professional for service.
Regular boiler maintenance is crucial to the life of your boiler system, and has been proven to lower overall operating and repair costs

Should you need the services of a reliable Boiler Service Professional, please look us up at:

WeFixBoilers.ca

Visit us on FaceBook at: http://www.facebook.com/CalgaryHydronicsSolutions

Calgary Hydronics Solutions

403-796-4768

State Premier Power Vent High Efficiency Hot Water Heater

noreply@blogger.com (jamesrolfe) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 19:20:23 PDT

Here is the optimal answer for high efficiency hot water heating especially in our colder norther climate. Whereas the inlet water feed from the city water supply typically is in the 38 to 45 F range during our winter months, most tankless hot water heaters struggle to maintain adequate water flow (gpm).
The State Premier hot water heater has a thermal efficiency of 96% and can be installed in the same space as a standard 50 gallon tank. This unit will deliver roughly the same efficiency as a standard tankless unit yet at much better flow rates. Typical installed costs can be the same or slightly lower than a standard tankless hot water heater.

To look at the informative brochure on this product, click HERE.

For more information on this and other efficient hot water heating options, look us up by visiting our website by clicking on the link below,

Calgary Hydronics Solutions Website

Or contact us directly the old fashion way by call us at:

403-796-4768