Challenge:
Michael Long, owner of Michael Long Plumbing & Heating, in Whitehall, PA, was building his own “forever home.” Having grown up in a house with hydronic heat, he knew the comfort level that hydronics could provide. He also wanted a large, multi-head shower similar to the ones he has installed in the homes of numerous clients.
Solution:
Long ordered a 199 MBH Aspen condensing boiler, along with a 70-gallon Alliance stone-lined indirect tank for plenty of domestic hot water capability. The 4,000 square-foot home has 10 zones of radiant in-floor heat, controlled by U.S. Boiler Sage Zone Controls and circulators instead of zone valves.
He received help designing loop layouts from the PEX manufacturer, and Roger Prevost, at ROI Marketing, helped start the system up.
Result:
Long was surprised by how simple it was to install an elaborate radiant system, largely thanks for the user friendly combination of the Aspen boiler and the Sage Zone Controls. During the winter, the home is maintained at 70°F, providing even, draft-free comfort.
Throughout the 2018-2019 winter, the Long family used 1,800 gallons of propane, despite the large home, 10-head shower, heated 6-car garage and propane appliances.
“The Aspen boiler and heating system are extremely comfortable and very quiet,” said Long. “We never know if it’s running of not. With young twins in the house, that’s a big plus. Naptime is uninterrupted!”
Above: Above: Long’s 4,000 square-foot home on top of a hill in Northeastern PA.
Above: Michael Long operates the plumbing and heating company that his grandfather started in 1963.
Above: Long changes setpoints on his Aspen 199.
Above: The 70-gallon Alliance SL sidearm tank provides plenty of hot water for the “human carwash” multi-head shower in the master suite. Three U.S. Boiler Sage Zone Controls are also used for the house. Roger Prevost, at ROI Marketing, helped Long program the panels so the boiler fires according to the zone – or zones – calling for heat.