Ideas to improve steam boiler efficiency

Mark A Bruns

I have a two year old steam-outfitted gas fired boiler. It runs smoothly, but I am exploring ways to possibly improve its efficiency. The gas valve has a single set rate of firing. Once the boiler generates steam (but the house is still cold), it seems inefficient to have the burners run at full volume. Do modulating valves, connected in some way to a heat sensor at a radiator, make sense? Or what about a timer that trips with the pressuretrol to reduce boiler short cycling once radiators are hot? Any and all ideas are invited. Thanks.

Robert O'Connor_2

ways to save

A pressuretrol or vaporstat should be the only control on the burner. Properly set it will be as eficient as posssible. A competent contractor will be able to help you with this.

Are your distribution mains insulated?. Thermostaic valve on the radiators will help save fuel if it is a larger building. This allows for some "zoning".

Insulation and new windows or doors may provide your best oppertunity for energy saving.

regards,
Robert O'Connor

Steamhead

And

if the air can't get out of the pipes readily, the steam can't get in. Make sure your steam mains are properly vented. If you measure the length and diameter of your steam mains and tell us what vents they have on them (if any) we can tell you if they're the right ones, or which ones you need.

To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"