Hartford Loop

Rob_21

I have a residential steam system with a VERY long hartford loop connection, which I believe is the cause of some major water hammer in the system (see picture).

I realize that I need to have a very short hartford loop, however my question is more about how high that loop should be relative to the default water level. As of right now, it's pretty much AT the level of the water ... should it be lower? Higher? If I decide to have that piping redone, I want to make sure that the height is done properly while I'm in there ...

It seems as though much of the system was installed incorrectly from the get-go, I'm just now understanding things enough to be able to make changes here and there that are helping out (ie, changing wet returns to dry) but this seems to be the last major problem.

Thanks in advance!

michael_15

A few inches below the water level

Probably two inches. Keep in mind that you may want it about two inches below the running water level, which is lower than the cold water level since when running some of the water is up in the radiators as steam.

-Michael

Geno_15

correct

if memory serves minimum is 1 1/2 below and that section between your return and loop with the union in it, that should be a close nipple or as short to that as you can get.

Rob_21

Right now the connection is probably about 6-8 inches.

This morning, the hammer was unbelievable and I was finally able to get down to the boiler in time to "catch" where it was happening ... it certainly seemed to be coming right from where the loop lives.

So, I'm now looking at a job that consists of moving the loop down about two inches, and in about 6 inches. Looks like it will also require me to move my new dry returns in a few inches as well. Thank god it's only money ...

michael_15

While you're at it

If you're going to have someone come in an reipie, you might as well post pictures of the rest of the near-boiler piping to let people here tell you what they think about it.

From the picture, down about two inches wouldn't really push it 2 inches underneath the waterline, but that might just be perspective.

In terms of "in" about 6 inches, just tell them to use a close nipple or what not. As short as possible.

-Michael


-Michael

Rob_21

Will do - I'll post a picture of the system later on.

Steamhead

Rob, you need to check

the instructions that came with the boiler. If you don't have them and the boiler maker is still in business, they should be able to get them to you.

The instructions will have a piping diagram that is supposed to be used when installing the boiler. Among other things, this will show what sizes of pipe are to be used and what their configuration should be- including the Hartford Loop height. Make sure the repiping is done according to the instructions.

The installer should have read and followed the instructions. Sadly, some just use them for knee pads. I think that's what happened on your job.

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Rob_21

Yeah, the whole system was pretty much a hack job IMO. The house was previously owned by a couple whose children were electricians, plumbers, and carpenters ... and I'm finding that they cut a LOT of corners in the house.

Case in point - at the water main connection from the street, they used a foot of gas piping to make a connection to the copper used in the rest of the house. I had water pressure problems soon after moving in, and when the plumber took that piece off it looked like rusty Cream of Wheat inside it ... I'm surprised ANY water got through!!

Anyway, I've attached a pic of my boiler and near-boiler piping as promised ... any feedback would be great!

Thanks,
Rob