5.3104.14 Tuneup and Upgrades

Topic: 
Hydronic Heating (Hot Water and Steam)
Subtopic: 
Equipment Maintenance, Testing, and Repair
Desired Outcome: 
Optimized efficiency of existing system
TitleSpecification(s)Objective(s)
5.3104.14a
Safety of equipment

A safety assessment will be conducted to identify the following conditions:

  • Fuel leak
  • Flue/exhaust leaks
  • Carbon monoxide
  • Electrical hazards
  • Water and steam leaks

Any hazardous conditions will be addressed before tuneup and work

Property manager and occupant will be notified of all hazardous conditions and confirm action plan

Ensure occupant and mechanic safety
5.3104.14b
Assessment

A review of site conditions and verification of work order will be done

Confirm feasibility of the scope of work
5.3104.14c
Minimize standby loss Standby loss Heat loss through the outer part of a water heater. Energy that is used even when a device is turned off

Presence and operation of the following will be checked:

  • Flue/vent dampers
  • Modulating draft controls
  • Insulation
  • Electronic ignition
  • Combustion air dampers
  • Combustion air intake fan

If not present or in scope of work, above upgrades will be considered

Short cycling will be eliminated

Maximize the seasonal efficiency of boiler

Identify opportunities for upgrades
5.3104.14d
Combustion efficiency improvement

Undiluted flue gases will be checked with a calibrated flue gas analyzer in accordance with accepted protocol

If combustion is not occurring safely or with maximum efficiency, diagnostics and adjustments will be done in accordance with work order specifications, which may include the following:

  • Clean fire side/heat exchanger
  • Clean water side
  • Burner elements
  • Proper fuel delivery
  • Modulating draft controls

Fuel/air ratio will be adjusted to meet specified performance over a range of firing rates, when applicable

Confirm that combustion occurs safely with maximum efficiency
5.3103.14e
Education

Completed work will be reviewed with the building/property management team and operations staff

Building/property management team and operations staff will be educated on the safe and efficient operation and maintenance requirements of the installed item

Ensure building/property management team and operations staff is informed of the safe, efficient operation and maintenance requirements of the installed item