Return Air Vents

rbog110730

Enclosing additional pictures. There are actually (3) returns
to the boiler. The original two pictured earlier and a third one that is coupled to the down pipe with the smaller vent. The third return does not have a vent at the top of the down pipe, the top of the "T" has a plug in it.

rbog110730

Return line air vents

1922 era 2-pipe residential steam system appears to have (2) return lines to boiler, originating from different areas of the house. Radiators on return line with what appears to be a small vent (picture below) heat very slowly and only get hot when thermostat is pushed way up. Radiators on the larger return vent (rounded top - attached picture) heat quickly. When boiler fires and steam is coming up you can hear and feel air venting from the larger vent. You cannot feel or hear any air movement from the smaller vent? Any helpful information would be appreciated....thanks!

Steamhead

The larger vent looks like a Trane

and it looks like it's been leaking. The smaller is probably a little Dole.

I think you may have a Trane Vapor system there- take some more pics and post them! I'd replace both those vents with Gorton #2 vents. These have more capacity than either of your present ones, and will make the system heat even faster.

If you can't find Gortons in your area, call Gorton at

908-276-1323

www.gorton-valves.com

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

rbog110730

Air Vents

Steamhead --- thanks for info. I'm located in central part of VA and have had little success in finding anyone in the area that is knowledgeable of steam systems, beyond the boiler itself. I'm also in the process of installing new capsules in the radiator return traps. I'm using Tunstall capsules to replace Hoffman #18 (Waterbury, CT) capsules that appear to be the originals. Tunstall was only company I could find with a replacement. Hoffman Co. said I would have to replace entire trap with their #17. Will take more photos and post 11/14 or 11/15.. Will also contact Gorton. Thanks again for info.

rbog110730

Additional Info & Pics

I've attached additional pictures to the original post.

There are actually (3) returns to the boiler. The original two pictured earlier and a third one that is coupled to the down pipe that has the smaller vent. The third return does not have a vent at the top of the down pipe, the top of the "T" has a plug in it. The point at which return line #3 joins
return line #2 is below the boiler water line. I don't see how this third line can vent air through the boiler water and back up pipe #2?

Steamhead

I noticed that too

the third return can't vent thru the water seal. Do all these returns come back from radiators, or is one actually the end of the steam main?

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