Help w/ an older HW convector - flush? / replace? / options?

Just_Another_Rick

I've just switched from an older (1940) oil heat HW system to a gas HW system.

We split out the 2nd floor to a new zone, and kept the old pipes / convectors.



The problem:

The 2nd floor, though it is on a different circulator, doesn't seem to get very hot.  However, the temperature of the pipes feeding the convectors, both input and output are _very_ warm.

Is it possible I need to 'flush' one of these convectors? - does crud build up in them, and that could be why the transfer of heat isn't happening?



What are my options - can I replace the small - 4" x length little radiator inside?



If it turns out that the 2nd floor just doesn't have enough radiation (from when they built the house) is there a place I can calculate what the heating requirements would be?



Thanks,

-Rick

Robert_25

Dust

Have you cleaned the convectors to make sure the fins inside are free of dust?  You would be suprised how much a little dust inside the convectors can reduce the heat output. 



How are the convectors piped now?  Were they on a single monoflow loop before?

Alan Welch

air

Have you bled the convectors? you would be surprised how much a little air will reduce the output.