CHICAGO — As boiler manufacturers strive for peak efficiency, more are opting for modulating gas condensing configurations. And, not only are these units more efficient, but they’re easier to operate, as many come designed with Internet connectivity and controls. In turn, contractors are enjoying the simplified installation procedures and maintenance routines such new-age boilers provide.
Craig Lazinsky, marketing program manager, Bosch Thermotechnology Corp., said: “Contractors and service techs will undoubtedly see greater use of modulating gas condensing boilers in place of conventional cast iron boilers in 2015. Cast iron boilers have but one output: 100 percent capacity. Transitioning to a modulating, condensing, high-efficiency boiler allows the boiler to produce only the output required to satisfy demand. So, if there is a small load (one zone calling for heat, for example), the boiler will not operate at 100 percent output like a conventional cast iron boiler, but will instead operate as low as 20 percent — or a 5:1 turndown ratio — boosting energy efficiency, depending on model.”