Radiators added to system in the basement - Steam

Dan Grieco

I am adding radiators in the basement to a one pipe system. The return is the level of the floor. I plan to mount them on the wall and pipe the supply into the top and return through a steam trap out of the bottom. I am looking for suggestions or comments so I stay out of trouble if it is eminent.

Jamie Hall

The key to doing that is really simple -- and critical. The outlet from the steam trap must be at least 28 inches above the boiler's water line for every pound of pressure you have set on your pressuretrol. You may have to mount the radiators high, or even hang them from the ceiling (which works fine, by the way -- just make sure they can pitch to drain).

ImYoungxD

Have you thought of adding an aquastat and heating up the basement with hotwater baseboard?

I think that would be easier and more efficient than radiators.

I have steam on 1st and 2nd floor while basement is hotwater baseboard.