Oil Boiler Small Water Streaks on Cast Iron

dmalk118 · February 27

Had my yearly tuneup and when the tec removed the side paneling on the boiler he noticed small, fine, water marks on the cast iron. The tec last year also mentioned these to me. They didn't look any different to me from year to year. Last year's guy didn't seem to think much of it in terms of an emergency. Does anyone have any opinions on this situation? Cast Iron oil boiler is about 22 years old.

Grallert · February 27

It could be a few things. Are you losing water? You can tell if you are by shutting the water supply to the boiler off. If you have steam the level in the gauge glass remain at a set or marked point. If you have circulating hot water the pressure should never drop below 10 or 12 psi or so.

dmalk118 · February 27

Thanks for responding. No, I am not losing water.

ethicalpaul · February 27

Try to get a picture next year 🙂

Grallert · February 27

I'd venture to say, unless there's been some big changes to the system, after 22 years there nothing to worry about. But yes if you could get some pictures we would be more sure.

STEAM DOCTOR · February 27

Steam or water? Would highly doubt it's something to be concerned about

dmalk118 · February 27

I can take the side off myself, will try for a pic tonight. it's water

mikedo · February 27

is it a burnham cast iron boiler ?

EBEBRATT-Ed · February 27

Check your return water temp. It should get above 130 within 15-20 min from a cold start.

Sounds like condensation running down the boiler maybe from the clean out covers,

dmalk118 · February 27

yes, It is a Burnham cast iron boiler.

dmalk118 · February 27

attaching a zoomed in picture. it's between the 3rd and 4th sections.

Oil Boiler Small Water Streaks on Cast Iron

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