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A couple year ago, Bob first reached out to ECI, he had his sights set on estimates for a Mitsubishi Ductless system. However, during the walkthrough, Bob and our comfort specialist, delved into a discussion about his existing gas boiler. Bob's frustration with his old boiler had reached its peak, as he found himself constantly adding water to it, only to watch it leak back out. This ongoing ordeal had become a burden for both him and his family.
Along with the outdated boiler, his home also featured old cast iron radiators that were unappealing to the eye and inefficient. Bob really liked the style and effectiveness of Runtal radiators and was curious if we could make them work. We pivoted from the AC to a new boiler system, with sights set on finding him the right high-efficiency boiler. In addition to the outdated boiler, the home also had unattractive and inefficient cast iron radiators. However, Bob was captivated by the style and effectiveness of Runtal radiators and wondered if we could incorporate them into the new boiler system. This led us to shift our focus from the AC to finding the perfect high-efficiency boiler for him.
First Steps
As we mentioned, Bob was interested in adding Mitsubishi Ductless cooling to his home in Elkins Park. During the initial walkthrough, it became evident that Bob's biggest issue was his boiler. The old Weil McLain boiler, along with old cast iron radiators, were unsightly and inefficient. Knowing he wanted options with high-efficiency ratings, we focused discussions around Energy Kinetics boilers and what ECI Comfort could do for his home regarding the radiators. We showcased a few recent boiler projects in surrounding areas and discussed various options for his home.
Energy Kinetics Accel CS Boiler
After some discussion, Bob decided on an Accel CS boiler, manufactured by Energy Kinetics. The Accel AS boiler system offers numerous benefits for homeowners like Bob who are looking to upgrade their heating systems. One of the main advantages is its high efficiency rating, with an AFUE of up to 97 percent. This means that the Accel AS boiler maximizes energy utilization and minimizes waste, resulting in significant fuel savings.
Smart controls
The Condensing Energy Manager serves as the intelligent core of the system, optimizing heating efficiency, reducing fuel costs, and seamlessly integrating with the low-mass boiler. It rapidly generates heat and efficiently captures any excess energy, directing it towards your home or hot water storage tank. This results in enhanced comfort, improved efficiency, and minimized energy wastage, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a more sustainable and cost-effective heating system.
Hassle-free upkeep
The Accel CS eliminates the hassle of broken studs or leaking gaskets, resulting in fewer service calls. And when routine maintenance is required, the full-access, wide-open flue passes and water flow paths make servicing a breeze. Unlike other boilers with cramped flue passes, the Accel CS provides ample space for easy maintenance, something Bob never experienced with his past boiler.
Design and engineering
The Accel AS boiler is made with high-grade stainless steel, ensuring its reliability and durability over time. Another benefit is its versatility in installation options, with both wall and floor mount options available to fit any space. The Accel CS boasts 37 specially designed stainless steel super turbulators that not only maximize condensate production and efficiency but also allow for easy access and servicing. Unlike typical condensing boilers with inaccessible flue passes that can become fouled and lead to premature failure, the Accel CS features a convenient fold-down door that provides homeowners and service technicians with easy access.
Five zone system
The Accel AS boiler comes with a five-zone system, expandable up to 12 zones, providing customizable heating solutions for different areas of the home. Along with the new Runtal radiators, which are not only more efficient but also aesthetically pleasing, the Accel AS boiler system offers Bob an upgraded heating system that delivers reliable performance, endless hot water, and improved comfort for his family.
Replacing the Radiators
The charming property was a two-story home from the early twentieth century, complete with a basement and a lovely backyard. The basement housed an outdated Weil McLain boiler, while the upper floors were equipped with unsightly and inefficient cast iron radiators. Determined to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the home, we replaced these outdated radiators with sleek and efficient wall panel Runtal radiators.
While the old cast iron radiators did their job of distributing heat throughout the living room and bedrooms, they were far from efficient. These outdated radiators consumed excessive amounts of water compared to newer hydronic options, such as the Runtal radiators we installed. By utilizing less water to heat up, the Runtal radiators significantly reduce energy exertion, resulting in a more sustainable and cost-effective heating solution.
Outside of efficiency, Runtal radiators also heat up and cool down faster than cast iron. Not only that, but they also preserve space with a more compact design! Runtals are known for their aesthetically pleasing appearance, making them a great fit for any room.
Check out the difference between the old radiator (left) and the Runtal (right)!
Upgrading to an Accel CS Boiler & Indirect Water Heater
Energy Kinetics has been at the forefront of producing highly efficient boilers since the 1970s. These boilers boast an impressive annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90 to 97 percent, surpassing the standard boilers with their 80 to 85 percent AFUE. This means that Energy Kinetics boilers are designed to maximize energy utilization, leaving minimal waste as exhaust. With a lower percentage of exhaust, these boilers offer exceptional energy efficiency and significant fuel savings for homeowners.
The Accel CS boiler sets the bar for efficiency in the current market, delivering unparalleled heat and hot water performance. Crafted with high-grade stainless steel for ultimate reliability, this boiler offers the flexibility of wall or floor mounting to suit any space. It also prioritizes cleanliness, featuring an easily removable front access panel that simplifies service and maintenance. With its standard five-zone system, expandable up to 12 zones, and the choice between sidewall or chimney venting, the Accel CS provides a customizable heating solution for your home.
The indirect water heater not only provides the luxury of endless hot showers but also ensures reliable efficiency. Unlike traditional coil-based water heaters, indirect water heaters utilize stored water in the tank to heat the water circulating through it. This innovative approach results in reduced maintenance and lower costs, as it requires less fuel consumption. Moreover, the use of large self-cleaning waterways in indirect water heaters helps maintain efficiency over time, preventing any rapid deterioration.
The Install
Our install crew arrived early to get a look at where they would be operating. The crew performed efficiently and cooperated with the homeowner, who was working from home. In just three days, our crew was able to professionally install the new Runtal radiators, new Energy Kinetics Accel CS boiler, and clean their entire workspace.
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On the first day, our crew removed the old boiler and replaced the cast iron radiators with the new wall panel radiators. The following day, the install team started by connecting the chimney liner down to the boiler, for ventilation. Once that was connected, our crew made their way down to the boiler to start piping the new boiler to the existing delivery pipes.
Watch the boiler install time-lapse below!
After a few days of prep work and installation, the crew completed the project and delivered our customer reliable heat and hot water for years to come. Bob now has an efficient, year-round heating system he can finally rely on. The new boiler and indirect water heater system will save money, reduce fuel usage, and provide improved comfort! And not only is updating your old boiler a short-term solution, but also a great long-term investment in the home.
Bob left this wonderful 5-star review for us on Google:
"From First contact to the final install, the staff of ECI were professional and knowledgeable."
