Sectional boilers intermittently shutting down on low water

HeatingApp

Can equalizing line cause fluctuating/ phantom water levels. There is a condensate pump on this loop so heartford method is not needed. Can equalizer line be replaced by steam trap. 

Jamie Hall

No. And it can't be replaced by a steam trap. The equalizer must have a direct connection from the boiler header to the boiler return inlet. The purpose is to equalize the pressure in the return with that of the boiler. It has steam in it, and is meant to.

You mention a condensate pump -- which, presumably, is in a condensate receiver tank? This arrangement has to be designed and installed very carefully, and can cause all manner of mischief (including very erratic boiler water levels and boiler flooding, as well as water hammer problems, poor condensate return, no or poor heat, etc. etc.) if not done correctly.

If you are having problems with water levels in the boiler, that's as good a place to start looking as any.

HeatingApp

Thanks appreciate the info.