Outdoor Wood Furnace Info

All-Purpose OWF Discussions => Electronics => Topic started by: Tim Guinn on October 24, 2016, 07:06:47 PM

Title: New Guy with A Zone Controller question
Post by: Tim Guinn on October 24, 2016, 07:06:47 PM

I'm new to the OWB world, currently installing a Portage and Main BL 2840 to replace a Propane fired condensing modulated boiler that was replace once under warranty for leaking, and then  the replacement lasted 4 yrs more.
 Boiler was for radiant floor heat in the entire house ( 3 Zones) and domestic hot water. I have separated the DHW from the radiant boiler as I don't wish to burn during the summer months. I installed a Geo springs heat pump for that.
The OWB will run to a heat exchanger, replacing the boiler entirely. My 3 zones are operated by 2 pumps on the supply side, (two basement zones share the same pump, and both zones share the same return pump.
My problem is finding a zone controller that will operate 3 zones  that will operate the return pump no matter which zone calls for heat.
When I look for zone controllers, a lot of the technical info is not listed. Anybody with any ideas? Thanks, Tim

Title: Re: New Guy with A Zone Controller question
Post by: mlappin on October 24, 2016, 07:17:02 PM

If I’m understanding your query correctly a Taco Zone controller should fit the bill.


http://www.supplyhouse.com/Taco-ZVC404-EXP-4-4-Zone-Valve-Control-Module-with-Priority

Title: Re: New Guy with A Zone Controller question
Post by: Tim Guinn on October 24, 2016, 07:26:53 PM

So, A dumb question, the return pump which has to be able to run from either zone wouldn't wire to the priority , but where?

Title: Re: New Guy with A Zone Controller question
Post by: RSI on October 24, 2016, 11:16:13 PM

You probably would want to use the end switch to run the common pump. I didn't find a rating on the contacts so you might need to use a relay if it can't handle the current or voltage.

Title: Re: New Guy with A Zone Controller question
Post by: Tim Guinn on October 25, 2016, 06:50:40 AM

I wonder if I can just use the zone controller I have and just add a relay then, it operates all three zones fine, but the circulator pump was operated by the now removed boiler.
Otherwise, what about;http://www.supplyhouse.com/Azel-Technologies-SP-82-2-Zone-Pump-Controller-Switching-Relay-with-Priority-Protection, this says will operate a system pump besides the zone pumps.
It appears that even though I have 3 zones, only 2 pumps because the basement zones share a circulator and are operated by Caleffi zone valves ahead of the current pump relay box.