wet pipes?

Bill_76

Is it normal for the supply pipe to get moister on it when you start a single pipe steam heating system when it has been off for a long time? I am suspecting a leak but a friend told me that they will sweat for the frist little while when the system is first turned on! Any one wana give me an explanation? Thanks Bill
By the way... I am not refering to the water supply pipe. I am talking about the main pipe that starts the loop in the house.

Steamhead (in transit)

There might be a leak

somewhere close to the pipe which produces some steam before the steam actually reaches the pipe. Since the pipe is still cold, this would make the steam condense on it.

Another cause might be a leak in the combustion zone or flueway and a marginal draft condition, which would leak some cool, moist flue gas on startup.

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[Deleted User]

Or...

THe boiler is not drafting correctly when initially started, resulting in a substantial humidity build up. Best have a pro look at it and make sure your not spilling products of combustion.

Only other thing that could cause it would be EXTREMELY cold (doubtful) return water temperatures,

OR, as Steamhead said, a leak in the system somewhere. However, a leak would be continuous, and you should have noticed water somewhere, or a high water bill, or a high electrical bill (well).

Or....

ME