When I started shopping for a new 90,000 BTU natural gas boiler, I quickly realized three names kept popping up everywhere: Weil-McLain, Burnham, and Utica. Contractors had strong opinions, homeowners swore by different brands, and I was stuck wondering: Which one actually makes the most sense for me?
Weil-McLain CGi-4 Series 4 90,000 BTU Cast Iron Natural Gas Boiler
After digging into manuals, calling local supply houses, and asking around the neighborhood, I learned a lot about these three brands. If you’re trying to decide between them, this guide will walk you through the differences — and I’ll share which one I ultimately chose and why.
🏠 Why 90,000 BTUs?
Before we get into the brands, let’s talk about sizing.
-
90k BTUs is common for mid-sized homes (1,500–2,000 sq. ft.) in colder climates.
-
Cast iron boilers at this size are popular because they balance durability, efficiency, and cost.
-
Choosing the right size matters more than the brand. An oversized boiler will short-cycle, while an undersized one won’t keep up in January.
👉 I recommend reading Energy.gov’s boiler sizing guide before pulling the trigger.
🏆 Weil-McLain (CGI-4 Series 4, 90,000 BTUs)
Weil-McLain has been making cast iron boilers for over a century, and they’re one of the most trusted names in the U.S.
👍 Strengths
-
Durability: Cast iron heat exchanger built to last 20–30 years.
-
Service network: Easy to find parts nationwide.
-
Efficiency: Around 82–84% AFUE, standard for cast iron gas boilers.
-
Reliable ignition system: Consistent starts, even in cold basements.
👎 Weaknesses
-
Price: Usually the highest upfront cost of the three.
-
Weight: Cast iron sections make the CGI-4 heavy to install.
📝 Mike’s Note
This is the model I chose. After a year of running it through Midwest winters, it’s been rock-solid. My neighbor had one for 23 years before replacing it.
🔗 Weil-McLain Official Gas Boilers
🔥 Burnham (Series 2, 90k BTU Equivalent)
Burnham (U.S. Boiler Company) has a reputation for rugged, no-nonsense cast iron boilers.
👍 Strengths
-
Simple design: Fewer electronic components = fewer failures.
-
Good efficiency: 82–84% AFUE, competitive with Weil-McLain.
-
Serviceability: Contractors like working on them — easy to access controls and piping.
-
Made in the USA.
👎 Weaknesses
-
Slightly shorter lifespan than Weil-McLain, though still 20+ years if maintained.
-
Not as many advanced control options.
📝 Mike’s Note
When I asked three contractors which cast iron boiler was easiest to service, all three said Burnham. If you want simple and rugged, this is a great pick.
🔗 U.S. Boiler Company – Burnham Series 2
💧 Utica (MGB II Series, 90k BTU Equivalent)
Utica has been making boilers since 1928. Their MGB II series is their standard atmospheric gas boiler.
👍 Strengths
-
Budget-friendly: Usually the lowest upfront cost.
-
Compact design: Fits in smaller utility spaces.
-
Solid performance: Does the job for smaller homes or moderate climates.
👎 Weaknesses
-
Shorter lifespan: Typically 15–20 years.
-
Parts availability: More limited outside the Northeast U.S.
-
Not as widely installed as Weil-McLain or Burnham.
📝 Mike’s Note
If I was on a tighter budget, I would’ve strongly considered Utica. For a rental property or vacation home, it’s a smart choice.
🔗 Utica Boilers – MGB II Series
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Weil-McLain CGI-4 | Burnham Series 2 | Utica MGB II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan (avg) | 20–30 years | 20–25 years | 15–20 years |
| Parts availability | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate |
| Upfront cost | $$$ | $$ | $ |
| Efficiency (AFUE) | 82–84% | 82–84% | 82–83% |
| Serviceability | Easy | Very easy | Moderate |
| Weight / Install Ease | Heavy | Heavy | Lighter |
💲 Cost Breakdown (2025 Estimates)
Here’s what I found when I called around to three local supply houses:
-
Weil-McLain CGI-4: $3,000–$3,400 (equipment only)
-
Burnham Series 2 (90k BTU): $2,600–$3,000
-
Utica MGB II: $2,000–$2,400
Installation adds another $3,500–$5,500 depending on labor, piping, and venting upgrades.
🌬️ Efficiency & Operating Costs
While all three brands land in the same AFUE range, real-world performance depends on maintenance.
-
Weil-McLain & Burnham: Slightly better at holding efficiency over time, thanks to sturdier heat exchangers.
-
Utica: May drop a bit faster if maintenance is skipped.
According to Energy Star, keeping your boiler tuned annually can save 10–15% on fuel.
🛠️ Service & Parts Availability
This is where the brands really separate:
-
Weil-McLain: Parts stocked at almost every supply house nationwide.
-
Burnham: Excellent availability and strong contractor familiarity.
-
Utica: Great in the Northeast, harder to source parts in other regions.
👉 I went with Weil-McLain largely because my local supply house had everything I needed in stock.
🛑 When Each Makes the Most Sense
-
Weil-McLain CGI-4 → Best for homeowners who want long-term durability and nationwide parts support.
-
Burnham Series 2 → Best for those who want rugged simplicity and easy servicing.
-
Utica MGB II → Best for budget-conscious homeowners or smaller homes.
📝 Mike’s Final Recommendation
If you’re looking for a 90k BTU cast iron boiler, you really can’t go wrong with any of these three. But here’s how I’d rank them for most homeowners:
-
Weil-McLain CGI-4 → My personal pick for reliability and long-term value.
-
Burnham Series 2 → A close second, especially if you value simple servicing.
-
Utica MGB II → Great if budget is your top concern.
After comparing features, costs, and service availability, I chose the Weil-McLain CGI-4. It’s been reliable, efficient, and easy to maintain — and that’s exactly what I needed to keep my home warm in a Midwest winter.
In the next topic we will know more about: Do Natural Gas Boilers Qualify for Rebates or Tax Credits in 2025?
