[starshine1]

Hi -
I've got an old Weil-McLain gas boiler in my 1934 house that I bought last year that will need to be replaced someday (hopefully not too soon). It runs fine(though probably only 50% efficient according to energy auditor), and I just had it cleaned and checked out. But replacement is recommended. It is not wrapped in asbestos, but the pipes are. Therefore, when replacement time comes, asbestos abatement will have to happen
I'm wondering about cost of this service. There's about 10 feet of asbestos covered pipe that will have to be dealt with, plus whatever is in/on boiler (gaskets or other parts).
Any thoughts?

Thanks!

[wmproop]

Only the asbestos removal experts can answer that,, I`m sure like any other contracter they will come out and give you a price quote,, many/most HVAC contracters wouldn`t touch it till its free and clear

[EPMiller]

I don't know where you are or what the regs are in your area so I can't give you definite answers. Some places will allow the HOMEOWNER to remove the asbestos legally, but disposing of it can be a pain and is still expensive.

I will give you an overview so you have an idea what goes into it. Tools required:
1) an approved respirator that filters out asbestos. These are not sold at your local hardware store.
2) a disposable tyvek coverall that you can peel off inside out trapping anything that is on it at the end of the job. This goes in with the asbestos.
3) proper disposable gloves and plastic sheeting.
4) approved disposal containers. This stuff does NOT go in the trash. You would be exposing others to it. Anybody that does that is a despicable lowlife.

You have to keep the asbestos wet so it makes NO dust, and yet you don't want that water dripping and carrying asbestos dust to the floor where it will dry and get raised later when you walk around. You wrap a section of the asbestos inside heavy plastic, and with gloved hands, work it off keeping EVERYTHING inside. If you have to go inside the plastic, make sure that NOTHING escapes. Your gloves then stay inside. Double gloves help and you have to know how to remove them without contaminating anything else. Repeat for each section of insulation. Those packages must be put into the approved containers for disposal. Then you have to reinsulate the pipes without scraping the surface and possibly raising any remaining particles of the stuff. It is a real job. Call a professional.

EPM