Replacing steam traps

Rodney Summers

I have an old two pipe system with warren webster steam traps. I have read that traps only last 3-5 years. Should these be changed? I have been here 13 years and have never changed them. Recently one radiator stopped working, I opened trap and found it stuck closed. I am wondering if others are stuck open, and how much energy does this waste. System is quiet and other 20 radiators work. Great expense to replace all the traps ($35/each).

If I do change them is the Barnes and Jones or Tunstall replacement design better?

Thanks

Fred Harwood

traps

Some will last and last. Most WW traps fail and block the condensate and air, which will show up as a cold rad and some loss of boiler water due to the radiator retention.

The Barnes and Jones work well. Remember to remove the old seat. I keep a couple on hand, but I've never just changed traps for change sake.

They close when steam arrives at the trap. In most balanced systems (radiator steam supply = condensing rate) the thermostat will cancel before any rad fills, unless you set back the thermostat or fire less than two to three times an hour.