Looking to Replace My Oil Boiler and Any Other Advise

...and as you sit comfortably for many years warmed by that boiler thinking of the thousands of dollars saved.....I'll bet a couple small glitches during installation will be long forgotten.

If it is made by human beings, there is a chance for an error, and the electrical schematic from the factory could use a 'user friendly update'. I didn't read all the posts, but did you remove an 'old beast' and go with the combo K-6? Nice small footprint.....quiet boiler.

Have a couple friends come by and show them the boiler in operation. They will say: it isn't running, but it is very warm.......not much happens to be that efficient. Not even a clink, gear sound, auger tube rattle or crunch......it is like magic. KISS works well for many of the coal fired units, hand or stoker fed!. Enjoy! Get you coal on order TODAY!!! We used Buck size, and have for years. Do not think that Rice is your only option.

I always forget to mention this: Remove the hopper......sand lightly on the inside , apply any type of rust retarder or protector you like. Apply another coat. If not, we will be having you with puppy tears three years from now when the hopper is rotted out. I have seen body undercoating, rustoleum primer and finish paints, POR, epoxy AND seem a few dozen with areas of large rusted out sections with some unique repairs. PLEASE try to remind yourself today, and that goes for all the folks who have a hopper before you re-fire for the season.

Good call. I appreciate the wisdom. I think I have some spray lacquer that may do the trick.

installation by the lowest bidder blues

That is also true. I find it acceptable in the end due to a $3K difference to the next bid. And most of the problems weren't foreseen or the fault of the installer. His only problem was his helper moved to florida so it took longer than expected. I did learn a good bit helping him. And I did get the K6 combo in place of my old boiler. I already think the oil side alone is more efficient than the old one. Has anyone been known to insulate the top jacket? I would think about doing it for warm months and pulling the insulation in winter to get some extra radiant heat in the basement.

Your going to enjoy the keystoker.. Buckwheat in my opinion burns better then rice did. I insulated the top jacket and it does help to hold the heat. If you have any question on ka 6 pm me and I'll be glad to help.

Zinj wrote: I think I have some spray lacquer that may do the trick.

Lacquer is not strong enough - will not hold out to moisture

B R U S H on a good enamel = http://www.rustoleum.com is a name brand

Zinj wrote: Has anyone been known to insulate the top jacket? I would think about doing it for warm months and pulling the insulation in winter to get some extra radiant heat in the basement.

Yes, and you should too. I doubt you will have to remove any insulation to get the basement warm...when the boiler is working hard things should be pretty comfortable down there.