Dual Fuel EFM DF 520

Becker · Post by **Becker** » Thu. Nov. 01, 2018 4:50 pm

Hi, I have an EFM DF520 coal stoker with a Beckett AFG oil burner as my duel fuel option. Does anyone know if I can replace that oil gun with a propane gun/burner? Thanks.

Post by **StokerDon** » Thu. Nov. 01, 2018 7:34 pm

Welcome to the forum.

I've never heard of anyone doing that but I'm pretty sure a propane burner is not shaped like an oil gun so, would it fit? If it fits, it might work.

You could always call EFM and ask.

-Don

Post by **Rob R.** » Thu. Nov. 01, 2018 7:37 pm

Welcome. There are plenty of oil boilers that have been retrofitted with gas burners, so I don't see any reason you could not do this. I suspect EFM will tell you they do not support this due to liability reasons, but that doesn't mean it can't be done safely.

Carlin EZ-Gas is one of the popular burners for this type of application - my Uncle works for a propane company and installed one of these burners on his Weil McLain oil boiler about 10 years ago. Riello also makes a nice gas burner for retrofit applications.

A good gas man should be able to get you setup. In addition to the burner itself, you will need a double acting barometric damper, and a vent spill switch.

Becker · Post by **Becker** » Fri. Nov. 02, 2018 4:38 pm

Thanks for the replies. I will have to do some more research and find a good gas man. Unfortunately, natural gas is unavailable in my area despite recent promises.

Post by **Rob R.** » Fri. Nov. 02, 2018 7:06 pm

Just curious - if you already have a functional oil system, why are you looking to switch to propane?

Scottscoaled · Post by **Scottscoaled** » Sat. Nov. 03, 2018 5:08 am

There are people who use their DF's oil burner for primary source heat instead of backup. It is horribly inefficient by today's standards. Can't see where it would be better with gas. A wall hung on-demand unit tied in with your DF would be a way better option.

David... · Post by **David...** » Sat. Nov. 03, 2018 8:42 am

There is a lot of moisture in the flue gas from propane and natural gas. Moisture and coal ash are a bad mix. That's the only reason I can think not to do it.

DAvid

Post by **Rob R.** » Sat. Nov. 03, 2018 10:48 am

Scottscoaled wrote: ↑
Sat. Nov. 03, 2018 5:08 am
There are people who use their DF's oil burner for primary source heat instead of backup. It is horribly inefficient by today's standards. Can't see where it would be better with gas. A wall hung on-demand unit tied in with your DF would be a way better option.

I like your electric boiler idea the best.