Question about Hoffman Model 1A Vents

pcolburn2

Apologies if this is a rudimentary question.
If the top nut on the Hoffman 1A is not screwed down firmly on the bottom nut, will this allow steam to escape and water loss to occur at the boiler?

I am chasing down some water loss in a multi-family building and noticing lots of loose nuts on the vents.

Jamie Hall

It shouldn't let steam or water escape if it's loose -- but it will lose its adjustment almost immediately, and those are finicky enough to begin with.