one pipe steam radiators

Kevin_8

When installing a new one pipe steam system should you flush the old radiators,or would that stir up leaks and or problems? Also are there any not so obvious problems I might encounter throughout the system?

Steamhead

If you're starting from scratch

and installing used radiators, I'd hose them out as best I could. But if you're just replacing the boiler, I'd leave them alone unless they're so full of gunk that the water can't return.

It's also a good idea to flush or replace the wet returns on a boiler replacement.

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Kevin_8

Thanks for the input. The job is a one pipe steam system
change out. The boiler is hurting and it was piped
150% wrong. The only thing staying are the radiators. Any other input would be helpful thanks.

Steamhead

Best thing you can do

if you haven't done so already, is read "The Lost Art of Steam Heating". Everything you need when re-piping anything on that system is in there.

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Kevin_8

Good Advice

Thanks. I read Lost Art and Lost Art Companion and watched Dan Holohan's video seminar (twice). With that, and being a competent pipefitter, I think that I am well off. However, sometimes talking with good tradesmen such as yourself offers very helpful knowledge. Anything you would be willing to share would be greatly appreciated and again thanks for everything.

Jeffrey Eichenwald

one pipe radiators

Kevin,
How large is this system. If this is a one or two storey house, then I would strongly consider changing over to a hot water heating system. If the radiators can be reused (are the sections connnected top and bottom?) then you should make the switch. Consider using multilayer pipe(also known as pex-aluminum-pex tubing) and press fittings. The increase in savings and maintenance will more than cover the expenses, especially if you are replacing steam distribution piping.

Jeff Eichenwald