|
On this page, I'll answer your questions and provide some
nuggets of wisdom.
Q: "Our association in entertaining converting our
steam system over to forced hot water. What should we look for and is this advantageous?"
A: "Converting steam heating systems to forced hot water CAN be advantageous
providing that Boards and Managers do their homework. A conversion such as this will not come
along without its costs. I recommend that a qualified engineer be engaged to complete a diagnostic
on the entire heating system prior to conversion.
Two key advantages
of converting from steam to forced hot water would be the elimination of any "banging pipes"
experienced with steam heat as well as the anticipated fuel savings from the conversion.
Two great disadvantages to converting from steam to forced hot water would be the costs
involved with the conversion as well as the probability of success with the conversion, which is only
approximately 50%. Unfortunately, this is due to the difficulty in working with the original
design of the piping system in comparison to how a new forced hot water system is piped.
There are several components that must be addressed prior to converting from
steam to forced hot water:
Removal
of thermostatic trap interiors from radiator traps
Re-piping of
any exposed piping in basement areas such
as condensate drips which connect the supply to return lines
Removal
and re-piping of any condensate pumps or tanks
Removal of any large
steam traps usually found in basements
Removal of any steam vents
from mains and branches
(often found on supply
risers as well)
There are several components that should be considered
prior to converting from steam:
Removal of shut off valves on radiators and reinstall either new shut off
valves or thermostatic radiator valves (preferred), that would automatically
open and close to maintain a more comfortable temperature
Install an outdoor reset control
on heating system to lower boiler
water temperature on warmer days for fuel savings. In situations where
underground piping is prevalent it is difficult to determine by visual
inspection if there are any leaks on the system. Areas such as this would
need to be tested and examined. Several Associations have converted their
steam systems to forced hot water and been successful while realizing
savings on fuel consumption. Prior to implementing this plan, an engineer
or qualified HVAC contractor should inspect your heating system in its
entirety and be aware of the above mentioned "musts" and "shoulds".
|
