Location of steam valve on radiator in two-pipe system

LCAMES

I am a home inspector having just inspected an apartment building with a two-pipe steam heat system. The radiators are installed in fixed enclosures. The steam valves are located on the supply pipe at the bottom of the enclosures for access. I expect they are piped to the top of the radiator, but that is not visible. Is the steam valve down low a problem? All diagrams i have seen shown the steam valve at the top of the radiator. Is that necessary, and if so why?

STEAM DOCTOR

Nothing wrong with piping it on the bottom. Certainly possible that the steam enters from the bottom of the radiator.

mattmia2

The steam rises so it can be supplied from the bottom of the radiator. most recessed style radiators have the tapings at the bottom. most convector elements have some sort of end tank, either a separate part or cast in to a cast iron version that the supply connects to. If it is one pipe the valve needs to be arranged in a way that the condensate can drain through it, that it won't hold an appreciable amount of condensate in itself or the pipe.

LCAMES

Thanks!!!

CarterNash

Low steam valve placement is okay; proper piping ensures effective heating.