What is that sound?

SteamedInOhio

> Rad or line to rad may not be pitched back <BR>
> towards the boiler, condensate "hammers" and <BR>
> makes that sound. It is water, trust me..<BR>
> <BR>
> Tim <BR>
<BR>

I would have never guessed hammer... it sounds way too metallic and regular and it is so different from the other water and steam collision noises I have had in the past. BTW all of those were pitch issues... so who knows.

I pitched all of my radiators this fall... I will double check that one. Hopefully it isn't sagging.

Could the fact that last three feet of piping are not insulated have anything to do with it?


Thanks.

SteamedInOhio

One Pipe Steam Heat (Noise)

I have a one pipe steam heat system in my house... buit circa 1929. Everytime my heating cycle starts up and air and steam start moving I get a lot of noise coming from inside of or around my largest radiator. It sounds like a chunk of metal bouncing around (think a can a spray paint while you shake it). I have not been brave enough to attempt taking things apart to look for the source. Beside for all I know it is normal? So I was hoping someone could help me figure out what exactly is that sound? Thanks in advance.

Timco

Rad or line to rad may not be pitched back towards the boiler, condensate "hammers" and makes that sound. It is water, trust me..

Tim

EasilyFound_2

Faulty Valve?

Might it also be a faulty valve with a loose part rattling around inside the valve?

Timco

When I go to a service call and it is not making the sound, I use my wedding band and bang the pipe (titanium 8mm) and they always say "that's the sound!"... May need to have the line flushed if all pitched back, or need to slow the steam down with slower vent. Doubt the lack of insulation would do it unless that has really cold air blowing on it..the pipes heat up pretty quick as the burn on the inside of my arm will tell you...

Tim