4 Adjustable Factors that Affect Commercial Boiler Efficiency
Frequent inspections and adjustments are vital for maintaining commercial boiler efficiency.
When it comes to the efficiency of a commercial boiler, system design is obviously very important. But, there are still many outside factors with the potential to affect efficiency and prevent your unit from performing to the high standard you expect.
If you have noticed your commercial boiler’s efficiency slipping lately, you may be able to reverse the problem by adjusting one of these 4 factors.
Flue Gas Temperature
Exhaust gas from your boiler is always going to be warm. But if it’s too warm, this could be a sign that the system is not extracting as much heat from the combustion in the boiler as it should. You may be able to adjust the system to capture more of the heat from combustion by installing economizers. If using a solid fuel like biomass or coal in your boiler, it is also important to invest in regular cleanings, which will improve heat transfer and keep flue gas temps in their proper range.
Excess Air
Some boilers consume excess air during combustion, which is a problem because the air will absorb some of the heat that should be used to warm the water in the boiler. This is especially likely to occur in low-emission systems, where excess air is introduced in order to decrease carbon monoxide emissions. Air consumption should be monitored religiously and recalibrated as needed to ensure it stays within specs and does not start reducing efficiency.
Ambient Temperature
Most commercial boiler efficiency calculations assume an ambient temperature somewhere between 70 and 80 F. If your boiler is not in an environment this warm and it is forced to take in cold air, you will not be getting the same efficiency that the design specs promise. This problem can be corrected by installing a combustion air heater to raise the intake air to the proper temperature.
Radiant Heat Loss
Just like any heating system, commercial boilers will lose a certain amount of heat due to radiation. You need to make sure the boiler is properly insulated and the insulation remains in good condition in order to minimize heat loss through its surface.
Need Commercial Boiler Service?
If it’s been a while since you had your commercial boiler professionally serviced, give The Stanley Louis Company a call at 800-217-6527. We will send an experienced technician to your property to check for these and other issues that could be affecting boiler performance and provide the necessary service.
