Hissing, spitting, leaking....

Joe Galluccio

Hi,
I just purchased a 90 year old house in Massachusetts with one-pipe steam heat with gas boiler. When I turn on the heat, SOMETIMES, the vents on all the radiators will hiss and spit water. ALSO, where the supply line enters the radiator on two of the radiators, it starts to slowly leak!

I'm not sure why this happens only some of the time - I can only guess that perhaps it is only when the system get very hot since the house is usually cold at the time when this occurs.

There are four runs from the boiler and I can only find what appears to be a main vent at the end of one of them. From what I see on this website, I am guessing that I need to add main vents on each run. If so, should I attempt to do this myself? (no real experience with plumbing, but eager to learn....)

Any advise would be appreciated.

Dan - great website. very helpful. look forward to getting one or more of your books!
Joe

Al Letellier

spittin'

Joe, it sounds like you have venting problems at the radiators and some loose connections or stem packings at the valves. With no experience, this should be left to a pro. Check the Find a contractor page on this site, hire one who is willing to show you the ropes and work with him in reparing your system. The education will be invaluable!!

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