just ordered \"we got steam heat\", but i'd like to start now, wh

Al Letellier_9

Jason, the vents are the heart and soul of a steam system and making sure they all work properly is the first step to comfort and efficiency. Sure you can do it yourself, just make sure you are buying properly sized vents. As to insulating the mains, yes, by all means do it. Fiberglass pipe insulation, at least 1" thick...2"is even better is the way to go. DON"T USE FOAM INSULATIOn. It will melt at he high temps of a steam system. You should be able to find a supplier that carries the fiberglass, or contact an insulating contractor in your area.

jason_28

i'd like to know what to do about steam main valves???

it looks like the main valves on the ends of each main haven't been touched in years. can i buy new ones? and change them myself?

i bought this house in august, it's just getting cold in NJ and i'm burning through oil like mad. i just ordered "we got steam heat" to get started on fixing my problems, but i'd love some advice on where to start while i wait for the book. can i change those main valves? is that a good/safe place to start?

also, i'm hearing it's a good idea to insulate the mains, but what do i use.

thanks,

burning oil and freezing cold in NJ,

jason

Cast Iron

Do it up right!

Hi,
Homeowner here. This place is a great source of info that has taught me a lot. Yes you can change the air valves and the good people here can tell you what size you need if you provide the dimensions of your steam mains. I got mine at pexsupply.com. The have good prices and fast shipping.

I also insulated my mains, I purchased fiberglass insulation. It came in 3' sections is one inch thick and has a slit down the side where you can slide it over the pipe and then reseal with the attached self sealing strip. Don't go to Depot. go to your local plumbing supply house and get it there. better quality, and they have stuff that is not avail. in HD. It will be worth the investment.

Finally, you might want to also order the e-book that describes Balancing Steam Systems with a Venting Capacity chart. It explains the flow rates of the various vents that are on the market and is great primer on balancing your steam system.

Good luck!

jason_28

thanks. i'll head to the plumbing store tomorrow and get insulation. i'll go measure the mains too for the replacement valves. as dan h. suggested, about 8 inches from the end of the main is a T and that goes up six inches and that's where the valve is. so i'll get that measurement too.

thanks again. man, this is overwhelming. i'm a carpenter, not a plumber!