vents and sizing

Gregory

hello, I plan to replace all the vents in my steam system, probably with varivent. what about the one vent in the basement at the end of the main line? will the same type of varivent suffice? also is there a resource here or elsewhere that will give me the info neede to check my boiler sizing/radiation load? thanks

Steamhead (in transit)

For the vents on the steam mains

measure the length and diameter of each main, and tell us what vent is on it. We can tell you what you need.

"Steamhead"

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Gregory

one main - approx. 2 3/8 OD, 2 inch ID? 43 feet long with two 90 degree turns. has a vent at the very end, where it turns down to become a wet return I guess? the vent in question seems to have the same size connection as the vent on the radiators but it is larger, maybe just due to it's age? thanks, greg

Steamhead (in transit)

Then the vent is too small

Replace it (or have a pro replace it) with a Gorton #2. If you have trouble finding Gortons in your area, try the State Supply or Pex Supply online stores.

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Gregory

thanks for the response. I see the Gorton #2 is a straight valve. what's there now is an angle valve as the fitment hole is on the side of the main.

Steamhead (in transit)

Is that angle vent

screwed into a tee, or drilled and tapped into the side of the pipe?

"Steamhead"

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Gregory

drilled and tapped. into the side of a 90 degree elbow fitting.

Gregory

I should also add

that i don't think there would be enough space to have a valve installed on the top. unless maybe I moved the location of it which would then not be at the very end of the main.

Steamhead (in transit)

Not a problem

increase the size of that hole to 1/2" pipe thread. A "horizontal" pipe screwed into this hole should slope back toward the main slightly, so water can drain off. If you're wary, have a pro handle it.

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