One pipe steam pitch and noise question

heatinghelp819

I have a single pipe steam system. This second floor radiator has a vertical riser that feeds it and connects into the radiator through a small (4”?) horizontal part, which is connected to the valve. If pitching the radiator so it’s higher on the right than the left, won’t condensate get stuck in the left corner of that horizontal part before being able to drain down the vertical pipe? If pitching it so the right is lower than the left, the condensate won’t leave the rad. I’m confused on how this should be structured so that the condensate makes its way back down, given this small horizontal part that connects to the valve and vertical run.

Second, even when this valve is completely shut off and closed tight, it is warming up. Does this mean the valve is not sealing properly and needs to be repacked, or something else? There is also a water swooshing sound somewhere in it or near it when this system is running. So water is stuck somewhere….

Jamie Hall

Don't worry about condensate in the radiator — it won't hurt anything. Pitch it so that that short horizontal can drain.

As to shutting it off — that's best done with the vent. It is a rare valve like the one you have which seals tightly, and those valves aren't meant for control — they're there for maintenance. If you want to reduce the heat from the radiator, use a smaller vent. If you want it as off as it can be, most vents will shut off it you just turn them upside down.

EBEBRATT-Ed

Just keep the rad level. The valve is probably leaking by. You can replace the valve which could be a hassle. You should be able to control the heat with the vent.

Are you getting pipe banging or water hammer?

Danny Scully

Radiators such as these with interior connects need to be dead level. Pitching them in anyway is misguided for the reasons you suggested.