Is it ok to completely shut off radiator valves in empty rooms?

Leslie_3

Is it ok to completely shut off the valves to radiators in the rooms we aren't using? I feel like I'm creating water hammer in the supply lines to these rooms. I'm wanting to save some $$. Our Dec. bill was $850.

Jamie Hall

Depends

a little on whether it's one pipe or two pipe steam. In one pipe, you have to be sure that the valve really truly does shut off the radiator. Otherwise, some steam will get by, condense, and you will get water hammer. Generally I'd prefer to close the vents on those radiators as a way of keeping steam out of them. Two pipe, it's generally OK, in my opinion, with one real caution: if the valve doesn't shut off all the way, the radiator will still get a little steam (and many valves don't -- they get tired). If the room drops below freezing, the small amount of steam isn't enough to keep things warm, and the condensate may freeze in the radiator or trap -- which will definetly keep steam out, but may damage the trap.

FJL

Closing Vent

How do you close the vent? If it is a hoffman, I know you can turn it upside down, and that will close the vent and keep steam out. Doesn't work with Gorton.

Is there some kind of plug that you could screw in? Like a nipple, but solid?

Big Ed_4

Then remove the vent.......

..... and replace with a 1/8" pipe plug.

Unknown

Saving Money.

Closing a couple of radiator valves might not have a big impact on your fuel cost. It might cause more issues.

Have you looked at the system? Is the near boiler piping done properly? What system pressure are you running? Are your main vents working properly? What is the cycle rate/anticipator set to on your thermostat? Are your mains insulated?

These items will have the bigest impact on savings.

bob young

tape

put a piece of scotch tape over vent hole = no heat. leave valve open = no problems