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Steam expert near Springfield MA
Ralph Slate
Member Posts: 1
Hi, I live in Springfield MA and have an older one-pipe steam system. I have a copy of Dan's "Lost Art..." book, have read it intently, and have also read much on steam heat on the internet. I have come to the conclusion that although my system performs pretty well, it is in need of some optimization.
My problem is that no heating contractor I talk to seems to fully understand steam heat. I've had a "turn up the pressure" suggestion, I've had someone suggest that I install hot water heat, but no one has shown me that they are an expert on steam. Most people don't even know what I'm talking about when I mention "main vents". No one can tell me the best level at which to keep the boiler filled.
My system is somewhat bizarre; the first floor has just 3 radiators on it, with the rest of the rooms being heated by convection ductwork from a large radiator situated in the basement on top of the boiler. That radiator is made up of 4 sections, each with separate vents, and I even believe that the returns filter through it somehow so that the hot water's energy gets reused. But don't quote me on that.
I have searched in vain for main vents, but came up empty; they just don't exist. When the system starts up every vent in the house hisses like crazy, so I assume they're venting all the air from the system. I replaced all the vents when I moved in, so they're all working, but they have a nasty habit of hissing, then loudly "pinging" shut once the steam fills the radiator. That doesn't seem normal. I could use some advice as to what types of vents to use -- I'm using Hoffman #1a (the adjustable one).
According to my pressure gauge, I see the pressure in my system at 5-10 psi -- which I understand isn't very good. My understanding is that it should be about 1/2 psi.
I have a 3 floor house, and have turned off the valves to the radiators on the third floor under the assumption that there's no need to heat it. I don't know if that is buying me any savings or if it is just causing me other problems -- I don't get any water hammer, so that's not an issue.
So after all that, my question is, does anyone know a good steam heat contractor near Springfield MA? I'm willing to hire someone, but just can't find the right person.
Thanks,
Ralph Slate
Springfield, MA
My problem is that no heating contractor I talk to seems to fully understand steam heat. I've had a "turn up the pressure" suggestion, I've had someone suggest that I install hot water heat, but no one has shown me that they are an expert on steam. Most people don't even know what I'm talking about when I mention "main vents". No one can tell me the best level at which to keep the boiler filled.
My system is somewhat bizarre; the first floor has just 3 radiators on it, with the rest of the rooms being heated by convection ductwork from a large radiator situated in the basement on top of the boiler. That radiator is made up of 4 sections, each with separate vents, and I even believe that the returns filter through it somehow so that the hot water's energy gets reused. But don't quote me on that.
I have searched in vain for main vents, but came up empty; they just don't exist. When the system starts up every vent in the house hisses like crazy, so I assume they're venting all the air from the system. I replaced all the vents when I moved in, so they're all working, but they have a nasty habit of hissing, then loudly "pinging" shut once the steam fills the radiator. That doesn't seem normal. I could use some advice as to what types of vents to use -- I'm using Hoffman #1a (the adjustable one).
According to my pressure gauge, I see the pressure in my system at 5-10 psi -- which I understand isn't very good. My understanding is that it should be about 1/2 psi.
I have a 3 floor house, and have turned off the valves to the radiators on the third floor under the assumption that there's no need to heat it. I don't know if that is buying me any savings or if it is just causing me other problems -- I don't get any water hammer, so that's not an issue.
So after all that, my question is, does anyone know a good steam heat contractor near Springfield MA? I'm willing to hire someone, but just can't find the right person.
Thanks,
Ralph Slate
Springfield, MA
0
Comments
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steam
hi ralph
couple things to check 1 make sure pressuretorl is working and also make sure that the pigtail isnt plug. 2. by shutting of the thrid floor you have decreased the load and may need to down fire boiler. you may need to install main vents if there arent any. gorton#2 are great vents
just my thoughts hope it helps
joe.g.0 -
Is Scott Milne near you??????
He be good with steam...Mad Dog
To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"0 -
Gary Wilson
who posts here on the wall is near you. Check his company out at www.wilsonph.com or e-mail him at gary@wilsonph.com.0 -
hello
Thanks Tim-
I may be able to help, I know the basics.
Gary Wilson
To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"0 -
I know what a main vent is
Sounds like you've been talking to the wrong companies!
Sounds like the pressure is way too high!
Give us a call on Monday
413-527-3317
Gary Wilson
Easthampton, MA
To Learn More About This Contractor, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Contractor"0 -
Scott is on the....
Coast...Manchester I belive..Springfield id way over near on the west off I 91...or the other end of the Mass pike. kpc0 -
can help
Sounds like you need help fast. Call Rodenhiser plumbing and heating. They have great steam mechanics. I know because I am one of them. I have been working on steam for 15 years and have fix more screw ups than I want to remember. Our # is 1-800-633-PIPE. Good luck. Travis0 -
You should be listed
in Find a Professional. More people like this would find you.Retired and loving it.0
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