Positive pressure on return side of 2 pipe system

Denis McDowell

I live in a 48 unit co-op and a 2 pipe steam system. There are approximatly 200 radiators the smallest ones being in the bathrooms. Only the smaller radiators have a problem and it seems that there is positive pressure on the return side of the radiator stopping the steam from passing through. If I open the cover on the trap and let it vent into the room the radiator gets instantly hot. Could this be from one or more traps being stuck in the open position letting steam into the return? Our heating guy hasn't been able to figure it out. Any help is appreciated.

Steamhead

It could be that

but it also could be an air-venting problem. How does the air get out of that dry return?

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Dave Meers

cold bathrooms in co-op

Denis, it could be two things. But first a SAFETY WARNING!
Don't take the cover off a steam trap with the boiler on.
You are right, there could be steam blowing through traps that are stuck open. This happens frequently as steam systems suffer from poor maintenance. Steam in the return lines causes a variety of problems, one similar to what you describe. The traps need to be surveyed for operation. Do they work or not? Fix all the traps that need it. It may solve this problem, but it will lower your energy consumption.
The other thing is the removal of air from the system. If you don't get the air out of the radiator, the steam won't come in. On two pipe systems, the air passes through the trap to the dry return and finally out of the system through the main air vent. If the vent is not working, undersized, or has been removed, this could be you problem.
Go to "find a professional" to get a heating guy that knows steam systems, they are worth it.
Go to "books and more" to get some reading material. If its a co-op where you pay for your heat, it is in your best interest to make sure this system is operating at peak efficiency.

Dave Meers

hey steamhead

Missed you at Wetstock V. Not much steam conversation going on, would have been nice to talk to you about a few things. If you have some time, McDonnell-Miller has an idea they want discussed among the industry. Drop me a line if you can give some input.
Best regards, Patrick Linhardt

Steamhead

Done

Check your e-mail. Missed you all too, just couldn't get away this time, we all know how that is!

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Denis McDowell

Pressure on return side

Thanks for the answers so far. We have a board of directors meeting tonight and we are looking for a good professional in the Philadelphia area. Any more ideas will be appreciated and I'll check back.
Thanks again,
Denis

Dave Meers

contractor in Philly

Funny you should mention Philly. I was at Wetstock in Providence over the weekend and met two knowledgeable guys from Media, PA. A father and son who impressed me with their knowledge of steam and how they rescued a few systems. Call Jim or Jamie Pompetti at 610-565-4778.

Let me know how it works out.

Best regards, Patrick Linhardt

Thad English

Big Jim and Jamie P.

I second the recommendation of the Pompettis. They have worked for me and my neighbors. They know what they are doing and it shows in their completed jobs.