Pressuretrol doesn’t cut-out

Paul Fredricks_9

If the pig tail, and any associated piping back into the boiler, is clean, then it sounds like the pressuretrol is out of whack. I'd recommend replacing it rather than trying to recalibrate. If it went out once it will go out again.

JC_12

Pressuretrol doesn't cut-out

Have a Honeywell PA404A 1009 Pressuretrol that is set for cut-in at 0.5 and cut-out differential of 1. However, it doesn't seem to activate at the cut-off (1.5) and boiler slowly edges up to 5 psi before I shut it down manually.

The "pin" from the top of the pigtail does seem to move in the pressuretrol and close the gap to triggering the cut-off, but never gets all the way there. I cleaned the pigtail and no improvement.

Is there a calibration on the pressuretrol to set where the “pin” should be at a given psi, or is this a fixed point and it's time to replace the unit?

Ted Robinson

A clogged pig tail?

I had a similar problem and found that the iron pig tail steam connection had clogged with corrosion and boiler gunk.

Brad White_199

As Ted said

(and Paul elaborated!) I would start at the pigtail. If clogged, the burner has no idea what is going on within.

Given a choice I would pipe the instrumentation and controls in red brass screwed pipe. A plug ended tee here and there will facilitate filling before start-up and cleaning. Plan on replacing the controls if they were exposed to steam for long or are themselves suspect.

The pigtail ("siphon loop" is another term), protects the gauges and 'trols from direct steam contact. This is why I like to have a means to fill them with water first.

JC_12

Thanks for everyone's responses.

As it seems I'll replace the unit, any idea the difference between the 1009 and 1033 versions of the Honeywell PA404A? Seems they are listed as replacement parts together, but not clear what the difference is as both are still sold?

Also, figured I'd replace the pig tail at the same time, where would one find one of these in 1/4", plumbing supply store?

Paul Fredricks_9

It seems the 1009 is an obsolete number, though they may still be out there for sale. 1033 may be the replacement.

From what I can see, the PA404A 1025 is the right one. When the pressure drops it makes at the set point, minus the differential. The lowest you can set these is 1.5 PSI. With the differential set at 1, that would give you a cut in of .5 PSI and a cut out of 1.5.

Help me out guys, is this correct? My mind goes for a swin sometimes.

Paul Fredricks_9

On second look, it looks yours is the same, only reversed. I see the replacement for the 1009 IS the 1033, so either would be fine.

JC_12

Thanks for the info.

tim smith

What about a vaporstat

Maybe a Honeywell L408J1017 or L408J1009 might work better depending on what range you need.