Radiator vent leaking

Saintnh

I have a 2-pipe system that has a radiator vent leaking water intermittently. It is enough to pool on the floor. The radiator is pitched towards the return side. the vent is on the return side. I have changed the vent and taken apart the check valve in the trap under it and cleaned it out but it is still doing it. Any ideas? Thanks.

Enreynolds

On (most) 2 pipe systems

there should be no radiator vent.  If your radiators have a valve on both the supply and return pipes, then this may be correct, otherwise the air vent has been installed to try to overcome some other problem in the system.  To get started, you would be well advised to pick up one of Dan's books, at least, "We got steam heat", found in the "Shop" section above.  This will help you understand your system, and what to expect.  Additionally, please post some pictures of your system and radiators, taken from a ways back so we can see and trace piping.  Also take pictures of any odd cast iron parts that may be hanging around the boiler room.

Eric

nicholas bonham-carter

2-pipe vent?

Most 2pipe systems should have no radiator vent. The air in the radiator should be leaving through the condensate return connection. Pictures of both ends of the radiator will show us what sort of system you have, and pictures of the boiler and piping will disclose any potential problems there.

It is possible the trap on the end of the radiator is not working causing the condensate to build up you could rotate the vent so it points down and shuts itself off, and see what changes result.

What pressure is showing on the gauge? Unfortunately the gauges supplied with most boilers is useless for diagnosis. Your system may be one designed to run on 2 ounces of steam.



http://www.gwgillplumbingandheating.com/webapp/GetPage?pid=260

Have a look at the above for a better explanation of the vent issue, and more, written by a couple of geniuses!



-NBC