Is it ok to plug a radiator vent to shut off?

Jerry_15

If you do opt for the plug without replacing the valve, remember that the valve must still be left open, and cracked back a tad so the packing doesn't freeze on the stem, but that's true of any valve of course. Good luck

Don_180

Shutting down a radiator

In a one pipe steam system I need to shut off a radiator (way too much EDR for the room). I read here that shutting off the valve is risky since some steam could get in if the valve is not working properly and the condensate could not return, leaving water in the radiator. So is it ok to simply put a brass plug in the vent hole?

Long Beach Ed

Yep...

...probably the best way to do it with a one-pipe radiator.

Long Beach Ed

Don_180

Follow-up...

Thanks. Does it matter when you do this, other than when the system isnt firing of course. Do you have to wait until it's cold or ok to do it inbetween cycles?

Jerry_15

Just turn off the valve, have the plug doped up, and go for it, of course you could always replace the valve, or hire a professional. I sense you will be soon anyway.

John S.

wait til it's cold

so that rust-inducing water isn't sitting in the radiator.

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Jim Pompetti

how about getting two slow venting valves.

Jim Pompetti

how about getting two slow venting vents

Jerry_15

I don't want to be too simplistic, again, but if you don't want to remove the rad, why don't you just put in a new valve??? With a positive shut off: if you needed more heat you could just, well, open it. If you don't, well, close it. You could also convert to a Euro valve on the vent (Danfoss is one), with a thermostatic head, which will allow you accomplish the same thing and be able to use the radiator whenever you want. Workin to hard, my friend, workin too hard.

Jerry_15

Wait till it's cold? You must charge by the hour.