One-Pipe System Thermostat-Controlled Air Vents

Bill Clumpner

Presently involved with optimization of one-pipe steam system built in 1903. No drawings, no prints, no memory of where risers are or if there are air vents. Upper floors of five-floor building have heating problems. Most likely trapped air/non-condensibles. Am interested in finding out if one can effectively computer simulate/model steam energy efficiency improvements from installation of thermostat control valve between radiator and air vent to better manage air in the system. Any pitfalls to installing the valves? Are there any recommended manufacturers. Thanks.

Steamhead

Bill, the way to solve that problem

is by adding main-line air vents at the tops of those risers. One way to do this is shown in Dan's book "The Lost Art of Steam Heating" which you can order on the Books and More page of this site. Highly recommended.

If you can find out what pipe sizes are used in each riser, and how much length of each pipe size, the vent sizes can be figured mathematically. If not, trial and error will have to do.

With the steam mains in the basement properly vented, and the risers properly vented, each radiator will get steam at about the same time. Then you can add TRVs to serve as limiters.

Where is this job located? We have plenty of steam men here who can help you- go to the Find a Contractor page of this site. If you're in or near Baltimore, e-mail me!



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