Adding TCV's to control steam convectors?

Chuck_17

Things to consider if adding thermostatic control valves to steam convectors in a building?


A church auxiliary building with three floors. The building has one thermostat on the second floor controlling a zone valve. (the boiler serves the church and two auxiliary buildings)

The basement rooms over heat so the thought is to add thermostatic control valves to the convectors in the basement.

nicholas bonham-carter

What sort of steam system is it-1-pipe, 2-pipe?
How is the system controlled, beyond the second floor valve/thermostat?—NBC

JohnNY

You should think of how the zones temperatures are being read and controlled first. I like Thermostatic Radiator Valves just fine but they are frequently used as Band-Aids in lieu of a proper fix to somewhat flawed system.

Chuck_17

Two pipe.
One zone thermostat on second floor for a 11,000 square foot building.
The TCV's would be on some lower level (basement) convectors to control over heating.

JUGHNE

Fixed orifices in the overheating convectors would be my suggestion. Start small and you can drill them larger if needed.

10% of the cost of TRV controls.
It is a certainty that some one will fiddle with the TRV and assure themselves they would turn the heat down when done with the area.....but forgets. Then you are right back with the overheating.
This is from servicing 3 churches, 5 schools and a community center with 10 Tstats.
The simpler and less adjustable controls are the better.

Steamhead

Chuck_17 said:

The basement rooms over heat so the thought is to add thermostatic control valves to the convectors in the basement.

Are the basement steam pipes insulated?

Where are you located?

Chuck_17

Good question - pipes are insulated.
Upstate NY