One Pipe Steam Radiator Valve Dilema

Richard Koochagian

I am having a new one pipe steam system installed this week by Dan Foley and we have come across a problem with a few of my radiator valves. Up until two years ago the valves worked fine. The old system was decomissioned (total renovation of the house) so the valves have sat in storage waiting for the rebuild. Today, Dan hooked up some of the radiator runs and got the boiler going. Two of my 1 1/4" radiator valves are now leaking water from where the shaft of the handle goes through the packing nut on top of the valve. Dan (who does not have access to the Web tonight) has indicated that it is possible to replace the packing but he has not personally done it nor is he sure if he can still get packing. He asked me to get feedback from the Wall on this subject. Any information on this procedure or where the packing can be purchased would be greatly appreciated as he and his crews will be back again tomorrow to continue the job.

Thanks......

[Deleted User]

Radiator valves.

Richard,

Sounds like you are in the Wash Metro area. 2 things.

1. After the old packing gets wet. Tightening the valve packing gland might solve the problem.

2. If you are near D. C., Southern Utilties has a complete stock of packing materials. They are in the phone book. Great bunch of guys and gal.

ChrisL

Teflon packing

I've had good luck using teflon thread to seal old valves. Leave the old packing in, and wrap the teflon around the stem a couple times.

Chris L

Chauncey

Hey Ron, Keep December 19th open.

Riello Live Fire in Upper Marlboro. Mike

tim from Reed Wright

packing

Teflon packing material is usually very available at supply houses. We buy it in 1/16th, 1/8th and 1/4 diameter to fit the needs of different sizes of packing glands.