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Carwash Tech is on the right track. Full port and reduced port valves are the price differences you are seeing. One thing to keep in mind when piping this system, is that a certain pipe size can only delivery so many BTU'S at a given temperature and flow rate (GPM)...and by using a reduced port ball valve, may undersize your bypass for the required amount of heat. As far as the gas rated ball valves...they are stamped and approved for gas use by the AGA (American Gas Association). You will not see a hot water or steam rating on them as you will a liquid service type ball valve. I would stay away from them for the fact that they are almost all of the reduced port type. Don't skimp on the valves or compromise any portion of your design. I work with the design of hydronic heat systems every day, and have seen the poor performance of cut corners. If a gate type valve is specified, use a gate valve (flow balancing)...and if a ball valve is specified, use a full port ball valve. Outdoor wood boilers are expensive, hot water coils are expensive, heat exchangers are expensive, so are the pumps that work in this type of system. If you use quality valves and equipment, and follow a correct design, you will be more than happy with the function of your system. Good luck! Billy
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