A Homeowner’s Guide to NTI Boiler Maintenance in the GTA

05MarMarch 6, 2023

A residential boiler is like the engine of your heating system, powering your warmth and comfort through the bitter cold of a Toronto winter. It’s the workhorse that keeps your home and driveway toasty, and heats your pool during the summer months. You rely on it every day for hot water, and it’s easy to take for granted until something goes wrong. As a homeowner with an NTI brand boiler, you’ve made a wise investment in a high-performance machine. However, regular maintenance is critical to keep it running efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road. Just like your car needs regular oil changes and tune-ups to keep it in top condition, your boiler requires a little TLC to ensure it’s running smoothly. In this article, we’ll break down the importance of boiler maintenance and explain in detail what’s involved in a professional annual service, using lots of pictures with simple text to visualize the process.

The NTI models we work on include: VMAX, TFT, TX, TXc, FTVN and TRX.

How To Find My NTI Model #

*ATTN 7 error code reminding you to schedule an annual maintenance!*

THE HEAT EXCHANGER

Just like a car, your NTI boiler has an engine of its own – the heat exchanger. It’s responsible for producing the heat that keeps your home warm. Over time, just like with a car engine, the heat exchanger can accumulate dirt, debris, and other particles that can cause it to work less efficiently. Think of it like changing the oil, spark plugs, and air filter – regular maintenance is essential to keep your car running smoothly, and the same is true for your boiler. In the image above, you can see a high-performance car undergoing an engine teardown. This is similar to what we do when we perform a boiler maintenance. We carefully examine the heat exchanger, clean it thoroughly, and check for any signs of damage or wear and tear.

The fire tube heat exchanger is a critical component of your NTI boiler, where the combustion process occurs. Over time, debris can accumulate inside the exchanger and hinder its ability to transfer heat efficiently. This can lead to reduced performance, increased energy costs, and ultimately, the need for replacement. By neglecting the cleaning of the heat exchanger, you’re asking for issues that will only be noticed when you have a serious problem. In the four images below, you can see the drastic difference in the before and after cleaning of the heat exchanger, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance.

*Some warning signs like this one can be noticed quicker than others. Lets open the cover and look inside the combustion chamber of the heat exchanger.*

The accumulation of debris in the heat exchanger is a common issue with boilers, especially those that are not maintained regularly. In some cases, it may look like black soot, while in others it may resemble coffee grounds! The combustion process is the root cause of debris accumulation in the heat exchanger. During combustion, fuel is burned to produce heat, and the by-products of this process can accumulate on the surfaces of the heat exchanger. Over time, this build-up reduces the efficiency of the boiler and creates blockage that result in overheating and cracking.

Regular boiler maintenance, including cleaning the heat exchanger, should be performed by a licensed and experienced HVAC technician. They have the knowledge, tools, and experience to safely and effectively clean the heat exchanger without causing any damage to the system. By hiring a professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that your boiler is in good hands and that you’re doing everything possible to keep your heating system reliable.

*Boiler heating systems are incredibly versatile and efficient, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial properties worldwide*.

THE BURNER

The burner is the heart of your boiler, just like the engine is the heart of your car. It’s responsible for igniting the fuel and generating the heat that warms your home. Just like how an engine needs tune-ups, the burner also requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. During a maintenance visit, a technician will clean the burner and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. They will also check the spark plug and flame sensor. Neglecting the burner can lead to increased fuel consumption, and even dangerous carbon monoxide emissions. So be sure to schedule your annual maintenance with Blackrock HVAC to keep your burner and boiler running smoothly.

Below are some examples of NTI burner inspections.

THE COMBUSTION ANALYSIS

If the technician you hired doesn’t use a or own a combustion analyzer, you’re only getting half the job done. A combustion analysis is an essential part of any heating boiler maintenance. During this process, a professional tech will test the boiler’s combustion efficiency, flue gas temperature, and carbon monoxide levels. The goal is to ensure that the boiler is burning fuel efficiently and safely. A poorly adjusted boiler can result in decreased efficiency, higher fuel bills, and even dangerous carbon monoxide levels. Therefore, it is crucial to hire a qualified and experienced technician for this task. Additionally, make sure the company you choose has a good standing with the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) to ensure that they comply with all the safety regulations and guidelines. Don’t take any risks with your family’s safety and your home’s heating system, trust the professionals.

WHAT IF I OWN A COMBI BOILER?

If you’re a homeowner with a combi boiler like the Tx151c, there is an additional step in the maintenance process that you should be aware of: descaling the plate heat exchanger. Over time, the plate heat exchanger accumulates scale and calcium buildup, which can reduce efficiency and cause damage to the system. To prevent this, it’s important to have the plate heat exchanger cleaned regularly by a qualified technician using not just vinegar, but a phosphoric acid instead. Neglecting this maintenance step can lead to a range of issues, from reduced efficiency and higher energy bills to system breakdowns and costly repairs. Think of it like a coffee maker with a clogged filter: the buildup will impede the flow of water, leading to a weaker and less satisfying cup of coffee. Similarly, scale buildup in your combi boiler’s plate heat exchanger will impede the flow of heat, leading to reduced efficiency and a cracked heat exchanger.

These pictures show a before and after combi boiler descaling. We use a professional grade highly concentrated solution of phosphoric acid which has shown itself to be superior to a vinegar/water mix. This is how you keep your boiler working longer!

*Look at how black the water turns after only thirty minutes of flushing the plate heat exchanger with our descaling solution!*

SUMMARY

As a homeowner with an NTI brand boiler, you have made a wise investment in a reliable and energy-efficient heating system. However, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your boiler runs efficiently, prevent costly repairs, and avoid safety risks. Maintenance includes cleaning the heat exchanger, drain, interior cabinet, performing a combustion analysis, and, if you have a combi boiler, descaling the plate heat exchanger. Hiring a professional and TSSA-certified technician ensures your boiler is well-maintained and safe to operate. Don’t ignore these essential maintenance steps, as they will help extend the lifespan of your boiler and ensure it runs at peak performance for years to come. Remember, your boiler is like a high-performance car engine, and just like you wouldn’t neglect your car’s engine, you shouldn’t neglect your boiler. Contact us to schedule your annual maintenance today and keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long!

HOW TO FIND MY NTI MODEL #

You’ll be pleased to know that finding your model and serial numbers is a breeze. Simply locate the large sticker on the top right side (sometimes left on newer units) of your boiler cabinet, and you’ll have all the important information you need. It’s a good idea to provide this information to your technician before they arrive, as it will help them prepare and ensure a smooth maintenance process.

Don’t wait, don’t hesitate, book an appointment now before it’s not too late!

A Heating Contractor’s Guide to Installing Warmboard System

02MarMarch 3, 2023

Have you heard of Warmboard? It’s a type of radiant heating system used in residential buildings that provides consistent and efficient heat throughout the space. The Warmboard panel is made of high-density plywood with channels for the radiant heating tubing to be installed. Warmboard-S is 1 1/8″ thick, 4×8′ panels, Douglas Fir 7 ply plywood and is used as a structural subfloor. Warmboard-R is 13/16″ thick, OSB, 2×4′ panels, and is commonly used in remodels.

Warmboard is known for its quick response time and efficient heat distribution thanks to the innovative upper aluminum layer. It works by circulating warm water through the tubing to radiate heat upwards into the room. It’s an energy-efficient solution to traditional heating systems, providing comfort and cost savings. The panels can be customized to fit any room layout or size.

On your first day of installation, it’s important to get organized on the job site. After the Warmboard panels have been installed by the framers, the next step is to install the tubing according to the layout provided by Warmboard. This layout is more important for the framers, but as a heating contractor, you should also use it to visualize the predetermined loop layouts and where to make router cuts in the panels (have a few black markers with you). Take the time to review the layout and ensure you understand it before starting the installation. It can be frustrating at first, and you may make some unnecessary cuts, but take them as practice. Organize your tools and materials in a way that’s easy to access, and keep your work area clean and tidy (bring a good vacuum!). This will help you stay focused and efficient while working on the job site. Don’t forget to order some food for dinner because the work can get addicting one you get in the zone and you’ll likely be up late!

*Using a pipe uncoiler will make your life easier on every radiant installation by preventing tangles.*

*Cleaning construction debris from inside the grooves before installing tubing should’nt be taken lightly.*

*The pipe enters and exits the panel from underneath to create a new heating loop.*

*Pack yourself a metal file to smoothen out the aluminum after the router cuts. We felt much better installing the tubing this way. Remember, plastic expands when heated!*

To make the necessary routes in the Warmboard panels for the tubing, you will need to buy a router (or two). Get yourself a heavy-duty router and a few bits because making all these cuts in the panels takes a serious toll on the tool. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the router is set to the correct depth for the tubing, which is typically 5/8″ for 1/2″ tubing. By using the right router and bit, you can ensure that the tubing routes are precise and accurate, which will lead to a successful installation of your Warmboard system. Remember to have a good heavy weight rubber mallet for installing the tubing into the groove.

We start and end each loop at the manifold, which is located inside a closet wall. We mounted the manifold to a beautifully stained oak plywood, which will add to the visual appeal once the project is complete. To ensure the fitment of the tubing, we used protector plates at bends to hold down any pipe that may stick up, despite our precise cuts. These plates are almost flush with the floor, ensuring a smooth finish. It’s crucial to pressure test the system before leaving the job site to guarantee its stability. Once completed, you’ll have a sturdy Warmboard system that’s ready for your preferred flooring.

We had the pleasure of working with Simpson Properties Contracting Ltd on their modern home project, and we couldn’t be more impressed with the innovative and new products they utilized to create such a beautiful and comfortable home. It’s clear that Simpson Properties pays attention to detail, and this home is a true testament to their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and accurate scheduling of trades. As their HVAC contractor, we were honored to be a part of the project and bring our expertise to the table. We also had the opportunity to build a custom mechanical room that included a fuel-efficient boiler mounted on a stunning Picasso mural, which will be discussed in another article. Thank you, Simpson Properties, for allowing us to be a part of your project and for your commitment to excellence!

Discover Our Expertise: A Portfolio of Our Condo PM Plans

02MarMarch 2, 2023

As a company that provides HVAC services to condominiums in the Greater Toronto Area, we understand the importance of regular maintenance to ensure the safety and comfort of residents. That’s why we offer monthly visits to condominium properties to inspect and maintain all HVAC equipment, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and more. With our services, you can comply with condominium by-laws and regulations, while also protecting your investment and the well-being of your residents. Our experienced technicians use the latest tools and techniques to keep your systems running efficiently and prevent breakdowns, so you can rest assured that your property is in good hands.

Curious to know if your current HVAC service provider is meeting your needs? Get a second opinion and a detailed report from our team of G1 gas technicians. They’ll thoroughly inspect your equipment and provide you with a comprehensive evaluation of its condition and performance. If you’re satisfied with our report, we can create a custom proposal for scheduled maintenance that fits your budget and requirements. Don’t wait until it’s too late, contact us today to schedule your second opinion and take the first step towards ensuring the safety and comfort of your residents!

At Blackrock HVAC, we specialize in providing top-quality maintenance and repair services for a wide range of HVAC equipment in condominium across the GTA.

Boilers
System Pumps
Cooling Towers / Chillers
Make Up Air Units
Domestic Hot Water
Exhaust Fans
Ductless Air Conditioners
Heat Pumps

Take a look at some of the HVAC equipment we’ve serviced in the past, with our own collection of photographs showcasing our expertise and commitment to excellence.

DHW mixing stations, both traditional and digital mixing valves.

Booster pump service, sometimes you need to take things apart and see what’s wrong!

Boiler pump inspection showing signs of the bearing seal leaking. Fix it before it’s too late! This is what happens when decisions from management and The Board take too long, DHW out of service!

MUA units work 24-7 and need lots of attention all year round. These need cleanings and sometimes replacements.

Too often maintenance companies don’t want to get in there and get dirty. Power washing MUA coils is the most effective spring cleaning you can do!

Measure amperage readings to get an idea of electrical components. Keeping the electrical panels are important when up-keeping equipment.

Major failure and internal fire is what can happen when maintenance is not performed well. Why did this heat exchanger catch fire? Now the building is in for a replacement and the indoor temperature humidity levels will create complaints to your office and email!

Keeping our neighbourhood clean is important to us.

Our technicians are trained to work efficiently and minimize disruption to your property, so you can enjoy a clean and well-maintained environment! Our HVAC chats using WhatsApp gives your management a real-life conversation with the entire squad on your side.
Trust in our expertise – we have years of experience in the HVAC industry and a proven track record of delivering high-quality services to our clients. You can trust us to provide you with reliable and efficient service that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
We invest heavily in maintaining our vehicles to ensure they are safe, well-equipped, and don’t break down on your property, or embarrass yourself because this thing drips oil every time he parks here! This helps us provide you with the best possible service and maintain the safety of your property and less phone calls.

*These territory limits indicate where we can best serve you as a preventative maintenance customer.*

If you’re a mechanically inclined individual in a position of power with a corporate budget, you understand the importance of quality, expertise, and reliability in your HVAC service provider. At Blackrock HVAC we have years of individual as well as many combined experience years. We hold a valid TSSA certificate for fuels safety, WSIB clearances, UPONOR, Mitsubishi, and multitudes of other trainings our techs can tell you about! Let’s work together to keep your property running smoothly and efficiently.

WHY WORK WITH BRHVAC?

At Blackrock HVAC, we are a small HVAC Contractor based in the GTA led by Orest Omeliukh. Our company name was inspired by George Black, the creator of BR, who encouraged his team to strive for excellence in their work. We carry on this tradition today with our team of dedicated HVAC professionals who are committed to providing the highest quality service to our clients. We understand that managing a property can be tough, and we know how stressful it can be when things don’t go as planned. That’s why we’re here to make things easier for you. Whether you need a quick fix or a more complex installation, we have the expertise and experience to get the job done right. Sometimes it takes just one of us to solve a problem, and sometimes we need to assemble a team of specialists who are skilled in their craft. Whatever the case may be, we’re here to work with you and help keep your property running smoothly. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.”

Embrace the Freedom of Ductless HVAC Systems!

26FebMarch 2, 2023

This topic can go many ways, therefore we’ll write a few posts about it.

Introduction
Maintenance
Vlad’s Travel Blog
Limitations
Experience
The Future

An air to air heat pump is a type of heating and cooling system that uses outside air as a heat source in the winter and a heat sink in the summer. It works by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it indoors during the winter, and extracting heat from indoors and transferring it outside during the summer, providing an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to heat and cool a home a home or space in Ontario.

The 3 Wins of a Mini Split!

First: Ductless systems are highly efficient and can save homeowners a significant amount of money on energy bills. This is especially true when you’re fuel is propane. They are designed to heat and cool individual rooms or zones, which means that they can be used to heat or cool only the rooms that are being used, rather than the entire house. This results in significant savings.

Second: Ductless systems are extremely versatile and can be installed in a variety of different locations, including bedrooms, office spaces, workshops, and even apartments or condos. This makes them an excellent for anybody who wants control of their temperature.

Third: Better air conditioning will improve you sex life! Just ask anybody who has one.

Why are so many people happy with their mini-splits?

THE LONG ANSWER

A Mitsubishi Mr. Slim heat pump ductless system works by using an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units to heat or cool individual rooms or zones in a home or building. The indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit by a conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain.

When the system is turned on, the outdoor unit pulls in outside air and circulates it through a refrigerant cycle, extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it to the indoor unit. The indoor unit then releases this heat into the room, providing warmth in the winter. In the summer, the process is reversed, with the outdoor unit extracting heat from the indoor air and transferring it outside, effectively cooling the indoor space.

THE SHORT ANSWER

Mitsubishi Mr. Slim ductless units are particularly adept at providing temperature control in spaces where traditional heating or cooling solutions may not be practical or feasible. This is especially true in homes or buildings where no existing ductwork is in place, rendering it difficult and costly to install a conventional HVAC system that requires ducts to circulate air throughout the space. In addition, an office that has already reached maximum rooftop unit capacity may require a mini split ducted or cassette system as the solution. A ductless system offers maximum flexibility, often requiring only electrical power and a hose for draining condensate, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of situations

As a contractor with years of experience installing HVAC systems, I have found that Mitsubishi brand units consistently meet and exceed the expectations of my clients. My team and I have installed many Mitsubishi Mr. Slim ductless units around the GTA and remote parts of Ontario like Christian Island. I can say with confidence that they offer unparalleled reliability. Our customers are consistently impressed with the quiet operation. The Mitsubishi brand has truly set itself apart in terms of quality, and I am proud to offer their products to our clients. Whether it’s a residential or commercial installation, I trust Mitsubishi to provide you with the best modern solution.

THE OUTDOOR UNIT

The condensor varies is size depending on capacity, but expect it to look something like the ones in these photos. It needs a place to sit or hang, power supply, and room to breath & be serviced.

THE INDOOR UNIT

The evaporator needs to be sized per space being heated/cooled and strategically located This is where working with professionals like ourselves makes a difference. We have enough experience to make the system work better for you.

Are you ready to upgrade your home or business’s heating and cooling system? Let us help you! We’re passionate about providing you with a quality ductless system. Whether you are interested in ductless units, central air conditioning, or a customized system that combines both, we can help you choose the perfect solution.

Book a virtual call using the booking app below!

The Benefits of Steam Humidifiers

25FebMarch 2, 2023

Are you tired of the dry, uncomfortable air inside your home during the winter months in Ontario? Adding humidity to your home during the winter is crucial for your health and the integrity of your property. Dry air can lead to health problems and damage to your home. Fortunately, a humidification system can help you maintain proper humidity levels, improving your indoor air quality and overall comfort. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of a steam humidification system that we have installed in several homes, and love it so much we can’t keep this a secret.

The inside of a wall-hung steam humidifier unit.

A steam hose gets attached to the furnace ductwork.

One type of humidification system that is particularly effective in cold climates is the residential steam humidification system. This system uses electricity to create steam, which is then distributed throughout the home using the furnace fan and ductwork to raise the humidity levels. Steam humidification systems are ideal for any home and any homeowner expecting improvements. Where traditional humidifiers can’t keep up, these can maintain consistent humidity levels even in extreme temperatures. While steam humidification systems are generally low-maintenance, they still require regular upkeep to function properly. In the next section, we will take a closer look at the benefits and how it can improve the comfort and health of your home.

Water quality is an important factor to consider when installing a steam humidifier in your home. Water with high levels of minerals, such as calcium, iron, and magnesium need to be filtered. Depending on the quality of your water, you may need to install a water filtration system to ensure that the steam humidifier is operating at its best.

Comfort: One of the primary benefits of a steam humidifier is that it will improve the comfort of your home. Cold, dry air causes dry skin, a dry nose, throat irritation, and other discomforts. By adding moisture to the air, a steam humidifier can help alleviate these symptoms, making your home feel more comfortable.

Home: Another benefit of a steam humidifier is that it can help protect your home from damage caused by dry air. Dry air causes hardwood floors to shrink, wooden trims and furniture to warp. By maintaining the proper humidity levels of 40 – 60%, a steam humidifier will help prevent these types of damage.

Efficiency: Low humidity levels can make your heating system work harder, which can also increase your energy bills. Maintaining an appropriate humidity level can help reduce your home heating energy usage because it higher humidity levels we feel warmer.

In addition to the above benefits, many steam humidifiers come equipped with an automatic controller and outdoor sensor. The controller measures the humidity levels inside your home and adjusts the output of the steam humidifier accordingly, ensuring that the air is never too dry or too humid. The outdoor sensor can detect changes in outdoor temperature and humidity levels, allowing the controller to adjust the steam output to compensate for these changes. With an automatic controller and outdoor sensor, you can live at home without needing to constantly monitor and adjust the system yourself. This feature makes a steam humidifier even more convenient and hassle-free to use.

A modulating controller choose the correct amperage draw depending on demand.

Steam hose connected to the supply piping of an air handler system.

A modulating controller is a type of advanced humidistat that can be used in conjunction with a steam humidifier to provide even more precise control over humidity levels. Unlike a standard humidistat, which simply turns the system on and off as needed, these units can adjust the steam output based on the outdoor temperature and indoor humidity levels. This allows for more precise and consistent control. Modulating controllers help reduce energy costs by changing the circuit amp draw depending on demand. Steam units usually require a 20A / 240V circuit, or a 20A / 120V circuit.

Take control of your home’s humidity levels and experience the benefits of a steam humidification system today. You can buy the system here and book an installation date using our online booking app.

Work Vans Don’t Need To Be Creepy.

11SepJanuary 31, 2023

We Love Our Vans

The ability to carry tools and parts inside of our vehicles increases the confidence of our team and improves the chances of getting things done. Speaking for many trades: electrician, painter, carpenter, builder, etc, they maintain a lifestyle of self-reliance and express it through tools, including vehicles. This article begins with a short story, followed by pictures of our Transit XLT and ends with a video filmed somewhere in Ontario.

Shelving, partition wall, roof rack, winter tires, and a back-up camera will make you safe on the road but won’t fix the situation you’ve been sent out to diagnose. “The days of seeing a plumber with his ass crack showing are over”, says Will Gonell of Gonell Homes. Meaning, if you want to be involved with modern construction, you need to be up to date and carry everything you might need that day. Clients have expected professionalism since forever, lets deliver on this.

At Blackrock HVAC we accept this reality so we work on improving the comfort, fun, and functionality of our vans. Our company culture has lots to do with automobiles and engines. If your van or truck is a tool for business then taking care of it is money well spent. Don’t be that guy who drives a creepy rusty old van around town scaring women and children, we’re professionals by trade.

The End

@BRHVAC

Oil Boiler Replacement.

06OctJanuary 30, 2023

Written by Senior Technician.

October 2016.

Mission: To build a reliable and stylish modern mechanical room.

First you”ll need to know how a hydronic hot water heating system works using radiators.

Next we’ll have to explain how a “gravity system” works.

Then we’ll summarize what the owner had to do in order to upgrade his Etobicoke home’s heating system to a modern type.

Blackrock HVAC took on the job of removing the old and replacing with new. It wasn’t easy, but it was a lot of fun. If you are looking for HVAC contractors in Ontario to take care of your project from A to Z please keep reading. Continue reading →

Arriving Home Modern.

26SepJanuary 4, 2017

Written by Maks Marshall.

September 25, 2016.

My Experience as a First Year HVAC Apprentice.

Lots of people tend to believe that after graduating college it is easy to find a job, regardless of the amount of experience you have. However, in reality, even once you graduate college, having field practice is VERY beneficial. In this article, a graduate from the George Brown College will share his first experience in the field as an HVAC Technician.
Continue reading →