Q: I run a gym, and the boiler we have won’t last beyond this winter. I want the new boiler to be as efficient as we can afford. What I’d like to know is what to look for and if any rebates are available for oil boilers. Thanks in advance. – TD, Windham County
A:
Paul:
I assume that you’ve got good reason to think that it’s time to replace your boiler. But for readers who haven’t had your experience, I’ll state that first it makes sense to have a whole-building energy audit, to make sure your heating needs aren’t affected by envelope issues, and address those before anything else. Also, be sure to ask your heating service contractor or HVAC contractor to confirm that replacement will be cost effective.
Dan:
To find the right high-efficiency boiler for your needs, the first step is to determine the heating output of your current boiler. If your heating output needs are 300 MBh or fewer, look for an ENERGY STAR® qualified model. That will get you a minimum efficiency of 85% AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency). For output of 300 to 500 MBh, look for 87% thermal efficiency. (In case you’re interested, an “MBh” is equal to 1,000 British Thermal Units per hour. A British ThermalUnit is a standard measure of heat.)
Paul:
True enough. Rebates are available from Efficiency Vermont, for efficient #2 fuel oil or liquid propane (LP) gas boilers and furnaces. Additionally, there are rebates for energy-efficient furnaces (forced hot air) which can provide both fuel and electrical savings, by incorporating energy efficient fan motors along with an efficient combustion system. Visit the EfficiencyVermont.com HVAC section to download an easy-to-use, mail-in rebate application. For readers who buy heating fuel through Vermont Gas Systems (VGS), contact VGS about rebate availability.
Dan:
Seeing as you run a gym, I’m guessing that your building uses a fair amount of hot water for showers and possibly for laundry. For some businesses with ongoing hot-water needs (like inns, restaurants, gyms, day care centers, laundries, etc.), it may make financial sense to use a boiler to heat water as well. This entails replacing a stand-alone water heater with a similarly-sized water tank, which operates as a new zone off the boiler. The energy-saving benefits of this approach depend on the particular needs of your business, so ask your heating service contractor if this is a good move for you.
Paul:
Efficiency Vermont can also help you get started with an energy audit, and offers rebates for a range of efficient equipment including lighting, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and more. Learn more about the rebates and other savings programs in the EfficiencyVermont.com Ways to Save and Rebates section or by calling toll-free, at 888-921-5990.