main vents advice

Brad White_105

I particularly like the comment about the "accessory 80 year old house", Chuck.

Your priorities check out just fine!

Brad

chuckNJ

looking for a bit of guidance

I recently aquired a one pipe steam system (along with an accessory 80 yr old house!) I'm enjoying figuring out and learning about just what I've got. One thing is certainly clear to me from what I've been reading, the main vents need attention since they currently are fitted with radiator vents.

My mains are both 2", 35 feet and 24 feet. What vents would be appropriate?

The existing vent tappings are 3/4" on the longer main and 1/2" on the other. both are located on the down elbow where the main drops into the wet return. Immediately ahead of this elbow in both cases is the last T off the main. Both mains are asbestos insulated, which is well encapsulated and runs all the way down to the final elbow. Any advice on piping the vents off these existing end of the line tappings would be appreciated. thanks!

Steamhead (in transit)

That's easy

a Gorton #2 on the longer one and a pair of Gorton #1 vents on the shorter one. The two #1 vents can go into a tee with suitable elbows to position them vertically.

If you can't find Gortons in your area, call Ken Kunz at Gorton, 908-276-1323. He will see that you get them.

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chuckNJ

thanks Frank. My question about piping the vents in my specific case went to the need to provide a horizontal run away from the down elbow to protect the vent (since the tapping is right at the end of the main, certainly not the recommended 15 inchs before)? How long should such a horizontal be, and should there also be a further stub past the tee where the vent would be mounted? thanks!

Steamhead (in transit)

Doesn't need to be long

just make sure that horizontal pitches back toward the steam main, so water can drain out. Should work OK.

"Steamhead"

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