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Can't reduce pressure

WestpoPub
WestpoPub Member Posts: 3

Hello!

In my single pipe steam system, I'm trying to reset the max pressure to 1#, but the device doesn't seem to be working.

Any thoughts on how I can reduce the pressure?

Doug in CT

Comments

  • AdmiralYoda
    AdmiralYoda Member Posts: 694
    edited 1:24PM

    Wow that is some high pressure. Does the system eventually turn off on pressure or does it keep going and going? The first thing I'd do is remove the pressuretrol and blow through and clean the pigtail just to make sure it is clear. Maybe run a brush through it too. If that pressure is indeed real I imaging your radiator vents are screaming and are probably damaged by now.

    You may also want to remove the gauge and clean that pipe as well just to make sure there isn't any crud in there.

    Last but not least you may want to buy a Tee and install a low pressure gauge along side of the 30psi gauge. You'll have a heck of a time dialing in 1psi using the 0-30psi gauge as they are notoriously inaccurate at low pressures. Perhaps even replace the 30psi gauge with a new one if that one is ancient, who knows if it is reading correctly or not.

  • Grallert
    Grallert Member Posts: 844

    Everything @AdmiralYoda and you could remove the gauge and see if the pressure it reads goes to zero. Also I would trust that gauge too much. Another thing that can happen is when you turn the adjustment screw too far in an attempt to lower the setting sometimes the screw becomes disengaged from the setting lever.

    Miss Hall's School service mechanic, greenhouse manager, teacher, dog walker and designated driver

  • WestpoPub
    WestpoPub Member Posts: 3

    Thank you, Yoda. The pressure has been crazy high for a while and yes, I've had some whistling vents.

    I had a professional in here last month and he removed and cleaned out the pigtail.

    Could there be debris in the Pressuretrol itself?

  • ethicalpaul
    ethicalpaul Member Posts: 7,054

    Don't trust that pressure gauge.

    NJ Steam Homeowner.
    Free NJ and remote steam advice: https://heatinghelp.com/find-a-contractor/detail/new-jersey-steam-help/
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