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Steam convector element clicking when heating comes on

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anatori25
anatori25 Member Posts: 18
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Hello guys,

Two years ago, I asked the Wall community regarding banging/clicking noises my circa 1930's Arco steam convectors were doing. I received a lot of valuable advices, and thank you all for them. I adjusted 2 convectors in living room, and no more major issues so far (fingers crossed). But as for my bedroom, I decided to replace very big convector with more compact modern steel convector. When heating season started, I was very disappointed that the clicking noise I was upset about was still there…I had to wait till the next summer to disconnect the radiator valve and inspect the supply pipe. So, when the season was over, I disconnected the convector and steam valve and didn't see any obstacles but noticed that the pipe itself was slightly inclined to the right. I could move the pipe several inches to the right-left and up-down, but incline was always the same. Because of that incline the elbow between the valve and convector was inclined as well and I suspected it may be one more possible noise source; so, when connecting the valve back, I decided to reverse it to the left (See attached picture). Incline in still there, but I am sure there is no water hummer in the elbow. I understand that due to the valve alignment the connector pitch is extreme, but in all less extreme scenarios (I tried all possible combinations) the result is a leak. I tried several air vents and sizes from 4,5 to C and D, but the noise was still there. It can be more intense at night, when the system cools down and the cycle starts. When the valve is closed, I can feel slight vibration when the cycle starts. What I did wrong and what can be done to minimize the noise? Thank you in advance!

Comments

  • Jamie Hall
    Jamie Hall Member Posts: 27,355

    You are describing the noise that's bothering you as a click? Or is it more of a bang? I ask, because if it is more of a click — particularly if it repeats but not that loudly — I'm going to go with expansion noise, rather than some condensate/hammer type of problem.

    And I'm going to be a real pest… and say that it may be coming from some of the fins interacting with each other as they warm up. And no, I have no clue as to how to fix it if that is the case!

    Br. Jamie, osb
    Building superintendent/caretaker, 7200 sq. ft. historic house museum with dependencies in New England
  • anatori25
    anatori25 Member Posts: 18

    Hi Jamie,

    It is definitely more like clicking, but in times very loud.