Radiator too hot! Put a wooden box on it?

chuckadoo

We have a tenant with a one pipe steam radiator that is too hot. My “higher ups” want to build a box around it. I suggested a TRV. The box won. This seems like a crazy way to fix the problem. Does anyone know the pros and cons to enclosing a steam radiator? Thanks!

STEVEusaPA

It’s done all the time.
Pros, less heat.
Cons, probably will look ugly.

chuckadoo

Do you have experience with TRVs with vacuum break? Do they work? TRV would be cheaper than building a box

Ironman

How about just installing an adjustable vent?

chuckadoo

An adjustable would only slow down the temperature rise in radiator? But radiator would still get to temperature, correct? Doesn’t a TRV “hold” the desired temperature in radiator? 

Ironman

A TRV is the better method, but may not be necessary. The key to a properly functioning one pipe system is BALANCING the venting correctly.

If the venting was correct, the radiator would heat up at a rate that's commensurate with the heat loss and therefore provide a comfortable heating cycle.

If the boiler pressure, main venting, and venting rate of others rads in the system is not right, then you'll have trouble getting the venting right on any particular rad.

The system has to be balanced.

Jamie Hall

chuckadoo said:

An adjustable would only slow down the temperature rise in radiator? But radiator would still get to temperature, correct? Doesn’t a TRV “hold” the desired temperature in radiator? 

A TRV can only close the vent on a radiator, which only alters the output if and when the system cycles. As @Ironman said, you must get the system balanced properly with the venting first.

ethicalpaul

The box is foolproof, I don't hate it

Erin Holohan Haskell

Here's more info on how radiator covers affect heat distribution: https://heatinghelp.com/systems-help-center/radiator-covers/

JUGHNE

Some years (+5?) ago there was a story here about a start up company that made the equivalent of a "teapot cozy" cover for CI rads. It put the rad inside a "dog house" with a small fan.
There was WIFI control of the fan for temp regulation of the room.
You could change temps with your smart phone from anywhere.

It may have been a newspaper/magazine article reprinted here that did feature Dan with the start up people for the launching of production.
I thought the project was going to get off the ground.

KC_Jones

I think I need some clarity from the OP on exactly what the issue is here. Is the room being overheated, or is a tenant concerned about a steam radiator injuring someone because it's "too hot"?

If it's the second one, no control will address that and you are left with an enclosure as the only option.

I only ask because we have had many people come here with concerns about burning.

EdTheHeaterMan

A decent cabinet maker (Pro or Hobiest) could make a nice box with adjustable openings to regulate the overheating radiator. Isn't that what the little damper is for on those inexpensive copper tube aluminum fin baseboard radiators?

Just trying to think outside the box.

Yours Truly,
Mr.Ed

EdTheHeaterMan

Maybe I should think Inside the box That is where the adjustment should. (Pun intended.)

Erin Holohan Haskell

JUGHNE said:

Some years (+5?) ago there was a story here about a start up company that made the equivalent of a "teapot cozy" cover for CI rads. It put the rad inside a "dog house" with a small fan.
There was WIFI control of the fan for temp regulation of the room.
You could change temps with your smart phone from anywhere.

It may have been a newspaper/magazine article reprinted here that did feature Dan with the start up people for the launching of production.
I thought the project was going to get off the ground.

I think you're referring to The Cozy from Radiator Labs: https://www.radiatorlabs.com/