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Steam Vents - HELP!!!!

Andrew_2
Andrew_2 Member Posts: 2
in THE MAIN WALL
The steam vents on my radiators (second floor) are waking up my kids at 5am.

Air is rusing out of them very loudly and when air stops, the vent makes a loud click when it closes. Also, a little spittle sound. I plan on replacing the vents.

Is there a kind/brand that is quieter? Should I look for an adjustable kind?

Comments

  • DanHolohan
    DanHolohan Member, Moderator, Administrator Posts: 16,598
    You need

    main vents in the basement. That gets rid of most of the air so that there's less coming from your radiator vents. It also helps to balance the system.
    Retired and loving it.
  • Andrew_2
    Andrew_2 Member Posts: 2


    How about the loud click that the vent makes when it closes?

    Should I get adjustable vents?

    Where can I purchase these air vents either in NYC where I work or at home in Scarsdale?

    Thanks for the help
  • DanHolohan
    DanHolohan Member, Moderator, Administrator Posts: 16,598
    Adjustable vents may not make a difference

    and main vents are really a job for a pro if they're not already in place. It involves cutting and threading pipe. Check Find a Contractor on the navigation bar.
    Retired and loving it.
  • HeavyP
    HeavyP Member Posts: 52
    Steam Vents

    If you need a contractor I am located in Harrison. You can E-Mail me if you need my help. Good Luck
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 17,342
    Vents that don't click

    try Gorton or the similar Maid-o-Mist or Armstrong. These are made in several sizes to go with whatever size your radiators are.

    But before you buy all new radiator vents, make sure you have properly-sized main vents. Then size your radiator vents to your radiators.

    Also have them check to see if your boiler is heating up too quickly. An over-fired boiler can make vents whistle too.

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  • louie_2
    louie_2 Member Posts: 5
    radiator \"sizing\"

    How do you measure the "size" of a cast iron radiator to correctly vent it? This is for a one pipe steam system.Who determines the vent size after you size the radiator,the mfg?...Thank you
  • tombig
    tombig Member Posts: 291
    Steam Vents

    Main Vents are a must. It gets the steam to the risers in a hurry. No system should be without them. Radiator vents are not sized to the radiator itself as much as where it's located in relation to the boiler. Gorton and Dole have charts that assist in location and size. (never did like adjustables) Sizing vents is best way to insure even heat throughout the structure every time 'ol bad boy' fires up.





















  • tp tunstall
    tp tunstall Member Posts: 63
    steam vents

    dan and steamhead are right on the mark. we've been distributing steam vents for 35 years. those old pros know what they're talking about!!!! main vents first!!!
  • Cariguy
    Cariguy Member Posts: 9
    Vents

    Is there a way to test vents (such as blowing through them) to determine if they are bad?
  • Kevin O
    Kevin O Member Posts: 1
    I have screaming vents too.

    Can you describe what the main vent would look like and where I might find it in relation to the system?
This discussion has been closed.

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