Using Data to Determine When Time to Clean Boiler / Brush Tubes

[KenLockett]

Data collection and monitoring system software can be very useful. By observing the trend data below I can see as the flue temps begin to trend upward over time. In my case I monitor these temps and generate an alarm that tells me when it is time to clean the boiler and even a danger alarm should the temps increase beyond the 'safe' limit. Just re-fired the unit this morning after thorough cleaning and of course return of the cold weather here in the northeast. Feeling warm.

 

[velvetfoot]

Pretty snazzy!

 

[woodsmaster]

I have a monitor too. It's a thermostat in the flu. LOL

 

[KenLockett]

I have a monitor too. It's a thermostat in the flu. LOL

That'll work to. This thing kind of a hobby for me. I probably go a little overboard but the wife likes it because it tells here when to re-load when I'm not here and when to call me if something seems wrong.

 

[velvetfoot]

It's awesome that your wife loads the boiler.

 

[KenLockett]

And the observed benefits of clean fire tubes as of this morning...max flue temperature before cleaning was as high as 653 Deg F and consistently above 600 Deg F at some point during each firing cycle. when clean max firing temps typically 450-500 DegF. Also heated on start up this morning the 55 Gallon boiler capacity from cold temp around 110 DegF to 192 DegF in about 45 minutes. Of course I used shoulder season wood to do this. Saving the dense stuff for the cold nights approaching this week with the arctic freeze being forecast.

 

[KenLockett]

It's awesome that your wife loads the boiler.

She'll load it if I ask her but generally prefer to do this myself unless I'm out of my home office on business.