Setting Steam cut-out and Differential

Steve Garson

I just replaced the two main air vents. One was completely clogged and the other way to small to matter. Venting is now as Steamhead spec'd.

I understand that steam pressure should only be around 1 pound. But what should the differential be at? My cut-in is now at 0.5 pounds and the cut-out is at 0.5 pounds. My guess is that this means the burner stops firing at 1 pound and starts at .5.

With that in mind, is this the proper setting?
Should I plan around and gradually lower the cut-in setting a little bit each day and see if all the radiators get hot?

Leon in NJ

I had questions myself about the cut in/ diff/ cut out settings. See page 14 of the "Bible"(aka "Lost Art of Steam Heating") for a good run down on settings of the pressuretrol.Happy Heating

Steve Garson

Can someone help me with this. I have a number of Dan's books and I'm sure many of you are knowledgable on this.

How do I optimize the efficiency by setting the cut-in and differential? I know the cut-out equals the cut-in plus diffenetial. Both are less than 1 pound.

This is a good cold weekend, so I would love to make adjustments while the weather can show me the effect.

Steve Garson

Leon: Since I don't have the book, can you tell me what he suggests?

Steamhead

Steve, you have it right

with a standard Pressuretrol, the settings should be as low as they will go- cut-in (front of unit) at 0.5, differential (white wheel inside of box) at 1.

If these settings result in cold radiators, you need to look at why the steam is not distributing at low pressure like it's supposed to.

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