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August 18, 2009
Gas Conversion Questions
We just finished converting our 1 system oil steam heat to a 2 systems hot water gas heating. The domestic hot water is also 2 system. Each floor will be in charge of their own. The lead plumber will be turning on the system later today so that we can verify that everything is working (also no leaks in pipes) before we patch up all the walls and DOB comes in for an sign off inspection.
So the question is, what is there for us to look out for besides checking that the hot water and heating is working; also to check no leak in any of the pipes? When it comes to the heating system, I'm an idiot..so are there questions I should ask the plumber that I should know? (how to turn on and off system?)
Thanks in advance
Comments
Honestly, the work is done, you're waiting for a sign off...the time for questions was a long time ago.
You might've asked the plumber:
1. For this conversion, can we reuse any of the existing radiators/riser pipes/boiler?
2. If not, what method would you use to determine the size of these as they will be purchased new?
3. What are my efficiency options?
4. What does typical maintenance for the proposed equipment entail?
5. What does your warranty cover?
6. What does the manufacturer's warranty cover?
7. Will you be insulating the new pipes or can I save money by doing some of it myself?
I could go on, but what are your primary concerns right now?
Me:
http://www.GatewayPlumbing.com
Posted by: Master Plvmber at August 18, 2009 4:52 PM
I'm just trying to be cautious since the plumber we are using turned out to be very shady. They were referred by a family friend and initially before we signed the contract, they seem very good. After we signed the contract though, it was another story... everything was a lie and there was no follow-up/lack communication. The job was agreed to be done in 2 weeks but turned out to be a 4 weeks job and they are STILL not complete yet. The sad thing is there is nothing we can do now, this probably feels more stressful than the closing.
One last question I have is that if they were to go to DOB (ARA/LAA app) this Friday to schedule an appointment for an inspection. Is there anyway that I can that find out if they really went? Does it show up on the DOB website real-time? I want to make sure they schedule the appointment before I give them the 2nd payment. Oh man, I need a drink. =(
Posted by: namahs at August 19, 2009 7:58 AM
MP, as always you amaze me by comprehansive and consise replys.
I noticed you said "Will you be insulating the new pipes or can I save money by doing some of it myself?" Is it normal thing to ask? I would not mind to put pipes myself and use plumber for more critical things.
Posted by: bobjohn at August 19, 2009 9:34 AM
Thanks, bobjohn.
People ask me from time to time if there's anything they can do themselves if it saves them money.
Most often, I say it is not necessary to pay plumbers to install pipe insulation. It's a very DIY job. Still, most people prefer to have us do it.
The other thing I can offer to keep costs down is to leave the old boiler in the cellar, pushed off to the side.
Normally, part of our boiler replacement proposal includes the cost of removing the old boiler and debris from the premises and delivering it to a recycling facility.
That costs money that could be paid later.
Posted by: Master Plvmber at August 19, 2009 11:14 AM
They probably don't go to DOB to schedule. They most likely will either call into the call center and schedule a physical inspection, or request a self-certification appointment online. Either way, it's not real time, but should show up very shortly after the appointment is requested. Note that for an "self-cert" inspection, the lead time is a minimum of 48 hours. A physical inspection appointment can take longer depending on how backed-up the DOB inspectors are (sometimes over a week). Do you know how to look on the DOB site to check for the inspection appoinement?
Posted by: Brooklyn Plumber at August 19, 2009 10:41 PM
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