Radiator help what is the difference between these?!

Lauren

I have 4 radiators in my condo, and 3 of them have the Gorton Vapor Equalizing knobs, and one has a key. All of the radiators but the one with the key shut off periodically in the winter time. Does this mean i need to buy all new valves? Or is there any way to have the key? Because the key seems to let the air flow through the radiator fully and keeps the heat on... any help would be appreciated! my dad is my landlord and he isn't any help and never wants to call a heating and plumbing place to come out! so thanks so much! i attached 2 photos of what i am talking about!!

JStar

...

Looks like the key is a manual air vent.  How old is the house?

Steamhead

That must be REAL old

only the original steam heat systems used manual key-operated air vents.



I wouldn't leave that key vent open. If steam blows out of it for any length of time, the system will need the addition of fresh water. Over time that can corrode the boiler and piping.



If the other radiators aren't heating well, the air vents on them might be the problem. Or they may not be. You'd really have to prevail on Daddy to call a Steam Man in to look it over.



Where are you located?

Lauren

Radiator help what is the difference between these?!

Thanks for the help! The building was built in like 1920's i believe!

I will most definitely give someone  a call about this! I am located in St. Paul, MN...

when would be the best time to have someone come out and look at it? when the boiler is on still or after they shut it off for the summer? because i have a feeling that will be soon!

Steamhead

Call them

before the season is over. Try the Find a Professional page of this site.