[Greenbuilding] can anybody help with my hot water heating problems?

[Benjamin Pratt]

I've asked this question on other forums, but have not received an
adequate response. I thought that there are some very smart people on
this list, so i would try here.

Unfortunately we still need heat this time of year in Saint Paul, and
my system is having problems.

Gas fired Hot water system with 3 zones--each zone has it's own pump.
When the main floor calls for heat, the pump runs but the boiler does
not fire. when another floor calls for heat as well, the boiler does
fire, and both floors get heat.

I needed to replace a pump on the top floor this winter, so my only
guess would be that this pump could be failing as well--but i don't
want to buy a pump is it's not needed.

Pressure in the system is good, and i doubt there is air in the lines.

Thanks in advance!


b e n j a m i n p r a t t

professor art+design
the university of wisconsin stout