vent for single-pipe steam

tms_2

Hello, clueless layperson here trying to be proactive before fall...
I live on the 2nd floor of a brownstone with a single pipe steam system. First off, my heat levels are fine and consistent. However, my bedroom radiator's air vent blows steam (and eventually, a few drips of water) and hisses tremendously for as long as the heat is coming up (10-15 minutes at a time). I've read here that it could be a clogged vent. Unlike my living room radiator, the vent for this one is on the top, rather than halfway down, and appears to be of the Maid O Mist #72 variety--i.e. just a little stubby thing. Is this OK? Can I simply replace it with another of the same? I thought steam systems are supposed to have a float-style vent? The final factor is that the design of the radiator is such that no larger vent could screw in because it would be blocked by a 3/4 inch protrusion from the center of the radiator. Any thoughts on my best approach? Thanks!

Steamhead (in transit)

The placement of that vent

likely contributed to its demise. Vents shouldn't hiss constantly. Also, that's probably a hygroscopic vent which is not a good choice for steam.

Have a pro drill out and put threads in the tapping lower down the side of the rad and install a proper vent there. The opening in the top, like the lower one, is 1/8" and should be closed with a plug of that size.

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Steamhead (in transit)

The placement of that vent

likely contributed to its demise. Vents shouldn't hiss constantly. Also, that's probably a hygroscopic vent which is not a good choice for steam.

Have a pro drill out and put threads in the tapping lower down the side of the rad and install a proper vent there. The opening in the top, like the lower one, is 1/8" and should be closed with a plug of that size.

To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"