How bad to turn on/off a steam radiator daily?

bipbap

We live in a multifamily building, 4 apartments, about 20 radiators total.

My wife’s allergies and breathing really act up with the steam heat all night so she likes to shut it off at night and turn it back on in the morning. She knows to fully close it and fully open it.

I know this is generally not a good idea on a single pipe steam system but if we have to do it, how bad is it and what could be the effects?

If the issue is the valve may wear out sooner, I’d be ok with replacing that every so often if it keeps her happy and feeling Ok. But is there more at risk doing this on a daily basis?

ethicalpaul

It's fine, but what I did was to install 1/8" fittings in front of the vent (assuming 1 pipe steam) including a tiny 1/8" valve that can be opened and closed.

Why do you think it's not a good idea on a single pipe steam system? As long as the valve is working it's fine.

The effect is that steam doesn't go into that radiator, causing your boiler to become slightly more oversized.

TKPK

the bigger issue with 1 pipe steam is to not attempt the throttle or moderate the steam by partially closing the valve.

full open or full close are ok

There is not usually enough room for condensate return and steam entry in a partially closed valve.

Fine to moderate the air exit or eliminate air exit as Paul suggested

bipbap

Oh ok. For some reason I had gotten the impression that the valves wouldn’t hold up to frequent/daily opening/closing and that there were some other negative implications from doing that.
But if that’s not the case, then that’s great.

Does it matter if it is shut off while the radiator is full of steam, therefore trapping the condensate inside? Or does this not really matter in the scheme of things?

delcrossv

As long as the valve is in good condition, shouldn't be an issue

pecmsg

maybe a blanket to cover the radiator and no messing with the valve.

neilc

steam shouldn't really be pushing alergies, unless venting is leaking badly, and too much moisture is in the air and apartment, mold? mildew present?

are radiators dusty? is the apartment prone to dusts?

if dusty, could be that the humidity is too low, and adding moisture might help, get a hygrometer from the hardware store, 40 - 60%, closer to 40 as temps drop outdoors, watch for moisture on windows,

a simple pan of water on top of a rad or 2 makes a difference