Another term for \"balancing the system\"?

McKern_2

I've already checked the list--the only company in our vicinity is still several miles away and does not seem to be a good match in terms of what they service/what we need. (I'm in Oak Park, IL, just the other side of Chicago's west border.)

At least 2 of the companies we've used in the 6 years that I've lived here have passed along info that demonstrates a serious gap in their understanding of steam heating systems. (I didn't know so at the time. I've since found this website and I now own a copy of "The Lost Art of Steam Heating.")

I'm hoping to avoid hiring another knucklehead, but I have yet to come up with a good method for screening companies. Recommendations from customers aren't necessarily reliable, unfortunately.

McKern_2

Am I asking the wrong question?

There are a few issues with the steam system in my condo building (6 identical units, smaller garden-level unit)--e.g., uneven heating, noisy/hissing vents, increasing heating costs. There hasn't been an annual inspection of the system for at least 3-4 years.

Based on what I've learned on this website, I suggested that we have the system balanced. The board eventually agreed and I've been charged with choosing the service company from a list of 4 recommendations.

I've talked with service techs from 2 of the recommended companies and when I mentioned "balancing the system" they both responded with a version of "steam systems balance themselves."

Is there another term for the process? Am I asking the wrong question?

JohnNY

Who recommended those companies?
Let me guess: your managing agent.
If ever there was an industry drawn to the lowest bid, it's Property Management.

You need to find a company that understands how a steam system works.

You're asking the right question using the right terminology.

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Steamhead (in transit)

Where are you located?

I'm sure there's someone near you who knows steam. Have you tried the Find a Rrofessional page of this site, under Resources above?

"Steamhead"

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Concerned Apartment Owner

Find a Professional

I've actually tried the find a professional section twice this season. No one responded. I'm giving it one more shot though.

Concerned Apartment Owner

Balancing a System

John, thanks for you post. I know I would find it helpful if there were links on here to help explain what balancing a steam system means. It's a great question. I'm looking forward to the answer.

Unknown

there are,

under Hot Tech Topics, above, in "Resources".

Balancing....

Noel