Convert Steam to Water?

JD_2

I posted a message last week, and several people asked for pictures. Here are some basic ones. To review, I need a new bioler. No contractors in my area specialize in steam -- they are recommending a conversion to hot water. Some of you mentioned there are other issues (besides the pressure) in this kind of conversion. What are some things I need to look out for? Or am I better staying with steam? If so, why? I have been told water will be easier to control, maintain, and quieter.

Thanks!!

JD

Unknown

That's a vapor system



Made to run well below a pound of pressure. Check this article out.

http://www.heatinghelp.com/newsletter.cfm?Id=54

Noel

Unknown

Your low pressure 2 pipe steam system

is a gem and shouod be retained. thinkof the heating system as an investment.

When you convert to hot water you will need pumps and possibly zone valves. Filling an old steam system with water may caise you damage in the future if you have water leaks. There are a host of other things too consider.

Lower the steam pressure to about a pound. When you install the new boiler make sure that you buy a steam boiler.

Make sure that the boiler is near in phyusical size as the old boiler.

Burnham makes a boiler that is perfect for coal job replacements. The model is a V8A. The smallest boiler is 3 sections and will heat at about 330, 000 BTUH.

If that boiler is to large youi can look t the Peerless Boiler Company.

You can replace the steam traps one at at time over a period of time to space out the cost of the steam trap replacement. If you do it that way change the traps on the first floor first.

Steam traps love to operate at low pressures. They will last much longer in that environment.

When you replace the boiler install a Honeywell Vaporstat. See Attachment.

JD_2

boiler brands

Thanks for the information -- yes, I currently run about 1 pound pressure on the steam. So far, people have only quoted me Weil-McClain steam boilers. Are the ones mentioned above a better choice? If so, why?

JD

Mad Dog

Hey JD...lsten to these wise Living deadmen.....

they know what they are talking about stay with steam. Mad Dog

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Unknown

There are many brands

The installer that you choose is more important than the brand. Make sure he measures the radiation and doesn't "Wing it" like many are prone to do.

I like Slant/Fin boilers, myself.

http://www.slantfin.com/spec-galaxygxh.html

Noel

Steamhead

Amen, MD

no way would I convert that beautiful old Vapor system.

JD, when that system is running properly it will equal the comfort and approach the efficiency of hot water. There are too many pitfalls in converting it, some of which are mentioned above.

A good boiler is a good boiler. All the brands mentioned so far will give long, trouble-free service if taken care of properly. The installer is the most important thing!

I forgot where you said you were located- Ohio, maybe? I sometimes do consulting outside the Baltimore area- e-mail me if you need this.

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