Can I eliminate a condensate pipe??

Steve Garson_2

I am managing a bathroom renovation for our building. There is a 1-1/2-inch condensate pipe that goes along the bathroom wall that we would like to eliminate, since it is in the way of many things we would like to do.

This pipe used to carry condensate from two radiators, but now only one uses it. I have photos attached that show the steam feed to the wall that then goes up to the kitchen one-pipe radiator. The pitch of the feed is down from the main, so the condensate goes into the pipe in question.

I am thinking that if the feed is properly sized, the pitch can simply be reversed, so it drains back into the main. The radiator has 42 square feet of radiation.

Is this feasible?

ttekushan_3

which way is that main pitched

Which way is the main pitched? I see a non-eccentric reducer in the main (middle of the picture) which hasn't caused a problem since all the take-offs are pitched downward (as the kitchen feed is). The question is if that much condensate will cause problems elsewhere down the main.

Since radiation served by that wet return is less than it was, it can be downsized. Is it possible to move the drip into the wet return over to another wall? In other words, can you take that return in reduced form, say a 1" pipe across the ceiling and then drop it down at the wall or even to the other side? This would be my first choice.

-Terry

Steve Garson_2

Terry:

Thanks for your interest. The Main is pitched downward, that is, where the take-off is located is lower than the feeding part of the main, and then the main continues downward as it takes the corner.

Moving the drip is not really an option, unless we can collect and pump it. The mains have had around 50% of their EDR load removed over the years.

ttekushan_3

with 50% of edr removed

you should be able to get away with it. You have to be careful of the venting rate, however. Don't use the fastest vent in the west.

The good news is the supply line is now one size larger than necessary for just one remaining radiator in parallel flow, but is now the right size for counterflow operation provided its pitched back towards the main about 1" in 10 ' or as close to that as practical.

Terry