Tarm Excel Questions

[kevindauch]

I've been looking into buying a Tarm Excel 2000 with the external storage tank. I have 2 questions:
1) How long does the ceramic base last?
2) I've seen several topics on acids forming during the summer season from condensation when the boiler is not in use. I do plan on burning wood once a week for domestic hot water. Would it be worth it to set it up so that the oil will keep the boiler up to temp to keep condensation from forming?

 

[woodmaster]

If you have storage you will be able to burn year round with no problems , unless their is a chimmney draft prob in summer. In any case you could burn the oil side if that is a problem .

The acid problem happens because of a few reasons.

1) there is no storage and people are trying to heat DHW all year with wood.

2) the boiler is overloaded - oversized and sits and smolders.

So.... because you are planning on storage this will make your life much easier. You will be able to run the boiler hot. You let the tank temp come down and then fire the boiler so 1) you dont overheat the tank . 2) you dont overload the boiler for heat load , which would essentially shut the boiler down until there is a call for heat.

 

[webbie]

The interior ceramics should last 5-7 years.....maybe more. When I imported Tarm we hardly replaced any of them at all. So that is a guess!

As to condensation, follow all the manufacturers instructions. Storage will help avoid condensation. They may suggestion placing a light bulb in the firebox during the summer or other similar actions. They (Tarm) have enough experience by now to make the proper suggestions.