Case Study: Heating Modernization at Catholic Church
4/19/2024
St. Paul Catholic Church in Valparaiso, Indiana, took a significant step towards heating modernization by installing three Weil-McLain Stainless Steel Vertical (SVF) 725 boiler units. G.L. Jorgensen Heating & Cooling, the installation contractor, played a pivotal role in the hydronic heating replacement project.
St. Paul Catholic Church, spanning roughly 18,000 square feet with seating for 950 parishioners, sought a heating solution that not only accommodated the current space but also had the capacity for future expansions, including the installation of a storage tank hot water heater. The challenge for Father Douglas Mayer of St. Paul was to balance efficiency, comfort and the unique requirements of the church, particularly regarding humidity control for three pipe organs. The primary pipe organ resides in the main church, while two antique wood organs grace a secondary chapel and choir room.
The three existing boilers had reached the end of their service life and required ongoing maintenance, prompting the church to seek a high-efficiency upgrade. Gary Jorgensen Jr. of Valparaiso-based G.L. Jorgensen Heating & Cooling recommended the Weil-McLain SVF boilers, emphasizing their capacity to handle the load, improve occupancy comfort, decrease energy costs and maintain ideal humidity conditions for the delicate wood organs. The Weil-McLain SVF boiler line, ranging from 500 to 3000 MBH models, boasts industry-leading thermal efficiency of up to 98 percent.
The SVF boiler units were installed in October 2023 and set up as modulating, allowing for seamless load management and turndown capabilities. This feature is designed to adapt to varying occupancy levels, transitioning from periods when the building is unoccupied, and ramping up for church events when the chapel is full. This method is also designed to minimize wear and tear on the system, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
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The installation process faced challenges, particularly due to a narrow staircase leading to the boiler room. However, the compact design of the SVF units facilitated easy transportation and positioning, overcoming accessibility issues.
An auto lift and a battery-powered stairlift were ingeniously employed to navigate the narrow pathway, ensuring a smooth installation.
The project has yielded remarkable benefits thus far. Following a complete heating season, Father Mayer has already begun to observe notable energy savings.
The installation of Weil-McLain SVF 725 boilers at St. Paul Catholic Church not only addressed the immediate heating needs of the church but also positions them for future hot water requirements. St. Paul is experiencing improved energy efficiency, reduced operational costs and enhanced comfort for its community members.