1 pipe steam system problems

[Deleted User]

problem that is boggling.. this is a 1 pipe steam system with the main running through the basement and branches going up obviously.. 2nd floor has 2 radiators that are 1st off the main, 1 bathroom riser with a air valve 1 middle room and two far radiators.. 1st floor has 2 1st off the main, bathroom riser middle capped at the floor and 1 far.. the homeowner changed all the air valves about a year ago with quick vents.. the problem now is the 2 2nd floor far radiators dont get hot at all.. the middle very little..also, few radiators on the 2nd floor are banging.. the only way those get hot fully is if the thermostat is on high 80's and runs for a while which sweats out the 1st floor tenants.. the thermostat is in the middle room on the 1st floor with the capped radiator. i recently changed all the air valves according to the gorton chart and still the same.. checked the radiators for pitch and is ok.. what else should i look for? thanks guys..

Steamhead

Check your main vents

they're either too small or not working.

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[Deleted User]

believe it or not, i cannot find any main vents on this main through the basement.. but if there are none, then how could this system work in the first place? thanks

Mad Dog

The air will eventaully

push out thru the air vents - however slow. You need tocut in main vents my friend. If you can't cut tees in, drill and tap the top of the main. Mad Dog

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[Deleted User]

ok the gorton manual shows to tap the ell by the return off the main.. if i have to tap the top, what size should i tap? 1/8. 1/4? which would be the best air vale to use? also, i keep the pressure at 1 lb.. that enough? mike thanks

[Deleted User]

also, the mains runs about 50' of 2" black accross the basement..

Steamhead

Use a Gorton #2 on each main

Drill and tap for 1/2" pipe. If you can't get to the top, drill the side and install an elbow pointing up. I prefer to drill into the side of the last tee on the main- not the ell that turns down into the drip. This moves the vent away from the drip.

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