Another Main Vent Question

Bob C

My system has 2 steam mains(2 1/2 inch pipe). The first one runs 12 feet in one direction, the second one runs 35 in the other. Could you tell me what the proper venting is for each run. I beleve each run currently has 1 Gorton #2. Is this correct or should the longer run have 2 Gorton #2.

Thanks

Steamhead

You really only need

a Gorton #1 on that short main. The #2 on the longer one is fine.

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Bob C

Thanks Steamhead. I just went on Gorton's web site and just noticed something. The Main vents are at the ends of the pipes before the return. On my system, the vents are back near the Boiler at the end of the return before it drops back to the boiler. Is this correct?

Steamhead

As long as those dry returns aren't terribly long

you should be OK. If you want, you could drill and tap the end of the steam main to install the vents there. But try them in the existing locations first.

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Bob C

They are the same lenght as the mains. Basically, the mains go out, turn down, and return to the boiler. So I guess I am venting double of what I originally posted since the vents are at the furnace????

Steamhead

Not really

if the dry returns are smaller pipes than the steam mains, which they usually are. You'll have a bit more air to vent, but it shouldn't affect the main filling with steam before the steam starts rising to the radiators.

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Bob C

Thanks Steamhead. Yes, the dry return is 1 or 1 1/2 inch pipe. As always, you have given a homeowner some valuable information.

Thanks,
Bob