Hi,
Have a small residential steam system(2 section boiler) which will go low water twice per week. Cant see leaks(returns are above the basement floor). Not observing any leaky steam(air) vents. Don’t see steam out the chimney.
Anyone have a slick way to figure out where the water is going? Gotta figure the boiler jacket is leaking water into the flue exaust but hate to replace a 10 year old boiler on a guess.
Thanks, Jon
Replies
You will get some good advice shortly. But I would recomend going to heatinghelp.com You can post your question at the 'wall' and there is also a ton of free info available elsewere on the site.
I have exactly the same problem. again. the first time it happened, I found a cracked fitting in my basement ceiling which was leaking steam pretty badly.
This time, I don't know where it's going. I have thought about filling the system with pressurized air first, to maybe 5 to 8 lbs and then listening for leaks. Next thought was a water fill. My system is an odd one, 2 pipe with no vents.
carpenter in transition
Tim,
I would use an auto feed valve but the oxygen in the all the added water causes corrosion.
2 pipe systems were installed in larger buildings to overcome the problem of trying to return the condensate through the same steam pipe. Plus it allows better heat control/balance.
Jon