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What's this buzzing sound? Coming from a baseboard steam convector.

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ariccio
ariccio Member Posts: 44
in Strictly Steam
Pretty straightforward!

This is in a 1961 NYC multifamily apartment building with a low pressure steam vacuum system. Using baseboard convectors and classic thermostatic steam traps.

This sound occurs anytime there's heat. Seemingly more when there's more heat.

I can't upload it, the m4a is not accepted, I will try to share a link in a reply?

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  • ariccio
    ariccio Member Posts: 44
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    The sound did not improve after replacing the trap. Using a Mechanic's stethoscope, I can tell it's either coming directly from the trap, or right next to it.

    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GTXrHFAVi60tMqGYG19UDJYV48fWEp6B/view?usp=drivesdk
  • bburd
    bburd Member Posts: 917
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    What steam pressure is the system running?
    —
    Bburd
  • ariccio
    ariccio Member Posts: 44
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    No idea why I missed this! Well, probably has something to do with having 47 different social media accounts and apps.

    I have this picture from around the time of the post. I can't make out the numbers, but it does look like this on the very low end of the gauge 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️
  • ariccio
    ariccio Member Posts: 44
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    This appeared to be a vacuum pump. Not 100% sure, but, well, the gauge showed a vacuum.
  • ariccio
    ariccio Member Posts: 44
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    (sorry to multi-post in a row, something about uploading images messes up the edit box for me here)

    Incidentally, the co-op board has decided they're moving forward with a fancy boiler replacement without any steam trap replacement and maintenance program. I'm certainly waiting to see how that goes! I suspect I will be able to "I told you so!" A few people.
    bburd

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