Quote:
Originally Posted by Overlake97
To answer Codeman's questions:
Q: What is your annual gallon usage of oil? A: About 1300 to 1400 gallons.
Q: Do you currently have a zone valve or individual circulators? A: I think they're individual. How could I tell?
Q: How is your electric bill per month? A: We run about $150/month, but when the A/C goes on (June, July, Aug) it jumps to about $300.
To respond to Songkrai: I appreciate your wondering "why anyone would want to do this," because that's what we're trying to decide. We expect to have above ground tanks (not buried. We already have one small one for a propane fireplace [propane cost = $80/year, so far]), and install a high-efficiency system, which requires wall venting, as you noted. If we had to "dig up the yard" we probably would not do the conversion; and regarding tank rental cost, one Propane supplier said they don't charge for the tanks at all, they just let us "use them." We do have air ducts, but for A/C, not heating (which is forced hot water). We'd also like to use the propane for cooking and for a second fireplace.
To Broadhopper: I will give "Jeff" a call; his company is right in my backyard. Thanks!
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The circulators would be right near your boiler, they look like individual electric motors with wiring and piping going to them . With 7 zones it would be obvious if you have them. Your electric bill sounds fair. Mine was killing me due to the circulators running all the time. Our home is over 4000 sqft and has 3 stories so it isn't easy to heat with 3 zones. My system is hydro air, so I am running fhw to 3 air handlers which then convert it to forced hot air. Between running the circs and the air handlers my electric bill is awful.
The term "use the tank" is said often, but you are paying for it. The companies have to buy the tank then make up margin in your gallon price. Owning your tank will allow you to get a better rate and let you deal with anyone. How big of a tank are you looking at?
My system is a prestige solo 250. I was going with the 175 but felt it was going to be too close to maxed out especially if I want to expand zones or add one in the garage in the future. The unit I went with was almost $6k, the total job about $10,800. This includes switching to a zone valve setup, relocating my hw tank, a lot of parts, etc. the next size down unit is $1k less. My indirect hw tank was replaced a year ago, that was about $1800. I went with a super stor, which is the way to go.
I figure my payback at 3-4 years at most.