Pressuretrol vs. vaporstat

Matt_11

I have a one pipe system that runs without any noice. For
the most part the system is in good balanace, but on occasion
I have a radiator that does not heat along with the rest.

The pressuretrol is set at 0 on both the cut-in and cut-out
and in all the time we've had the house, it's never been a
factor in the way the system runs.

I'm wondering if:

A) It's totally shot

OR

B) the system runs at such low pressure that I need a
vaporstat?

Any thoughts?

Mad Dog

Either could be the case

Vaporstats are great, but very sensitive and not as durable as a standard, non-mercury pressuretrol. I've blown brand new ones because the boiler was not cleaned long enough. The violent action of the steaming boiler blew the crap outta it. They are also expensive. You might be just as well off with a standard mercury pressuretrol with very low cut in cut out settings. Try a large Gorton D vent on that trouble radiator. You also should check that you have a good, new main venst. Gorton or Hoffmans are excellent. Mad Dog

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Jeff_41

Thanks Mad Dog,

How do I test the current mercury pressuretrol that I have
to know if it's in working order?

Mad Dog

Carefully take the cover off

and lift the fulcrun arm up when boiler is running to see if she shuts down. DO NOT HIT THE WIRES!!!!!! If you can't figure it out, it will be time for a pro. You can find us here. Mad Dog

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Matt_11

If I physically move the arm, the boiler shuts off. But I've
never seen the boiler generate enough pressure to move the
mercury enough to move the arm.