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Insulating Wet Return in One Pipe Steam System?

Jeff_H
Jeff_H Member Posts: 37
in Strictly Steam
I have a one-pipe steam heat system. I understand the importance of insulating the mains, but should I be insulating all the pipes (such as the wet return)?

Comments

  • Jamie Hall
    Jamie Hall Member Posts: 24,528
    Frankly, I wouldn't. Why? Well, first place it shouldn't be that warm, so there isn't much gain. Second, you really don't want to trap moisture next to the outside of the pipe, which would corrode it.
    Br. Jamie, osb
    Building superintendent/caretaker, 7200 sq. ft. historic house museum with dependencies in New England
  • Jeff_H
    Jeff_H Member Posts: 37
    Thank you! Interestingly enough, I had corrosion on those exact pipes and had them replaced. Would you insulate the Hartford Loop piping as well?
  • Fred
    Fred Member Posts: 8,542
    Jeff_H said:

    Thank you! Interestingly enough, I had corrosion on those exact pipes and had them replaced. Would you insulate the Hartford Loop piping as well?

    Nope, just not necessary. Besides it's just carrying the same water that's in you wet return.

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