Bubling out of one air vent and fluctuating water level

Steve Garson · October 2005

My new WM SGO-4 steam boiler fired up this morning for the first time on my one-pipe steam system. A few questions:

1. The water level in watch glass moves up and down when boiling. How much movement (in inches) is normal versus how much movement means I should skim the boiler again?

2. One of the radiator vents was bubbling water which has never happened before. What does this mean?

Thanks,

Unknown · October 2005

If it's truly

the first time firing , it needs to be thoroughly cleaned and skimmed . Dirty and oily boiler water can cause the symptoms you describe .

Another cause can be an improperly piped boiler header . Any chance of posting a pic of the boiler ?

Steve Garson · October 2005

Well it isn't really the first time, just the first time since the summer install. The header is installed to spec. The installer did skim the boiler, let the water sit for several weeks this summer and then skim again.

ed wallace · October 2005

bubling out of vent and fluctuating water line

Steve why didnt you call me today i am happy to come back and skim the boiler again i stand behind my work unless you are not happy with something i did on your installation

To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"

Steve Garson · October 2005

Ed: that's why we left the ball valve for skimming. I don't mind doing it. I just need to know if that's what I need to do. It's no big deal. Is that what I need to do?

ed wallace · October 2005

skimming

yes it needs to be skimmed more try some tsp or equvelant in boiler as for the vent spiting air that sounds like to much pressure in boiler

To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"

Unknown · October 2005

Sorry about

the first post . Ed does outstanding work , without a doubt .

Bubling out of one air vent and fluctuating water level

Comments

Categories