Understanding the Steam Heat System
As indicated by the term itself, a steam heat system is a method of providing heating to a house or building through the use of steam. Although steam heating used to be very popular, many newer systems have surfaced lately. Still, it is undeniable that steam heating systems are more dependable and easier to maintain compared to any other modern heating system used nowadays.
In addition, a heating system upgrade can be a very complicated and expensive process. If you own a building that uses a steam heating system and you have no plans to upgrade, you just have to understand its basic operations and how to fix it.
Understanding the Steam Heat System
There are four components of a steam heating system – a burner, a water boiler, pipes and radiators/convectors. The system functions in a rather straightforward manner. The boiler turns the water into steam by applying heat to it. The steam then makes its way through the pipes and into the radiators and/or convectors in each room. This is the manner in which steam heat is distributed around the building. With energy spreading, the temperature of the steam goes down, converting it back to water, which will now be heated by the boiler all over again.
How the Boiler Is Heated
There are different ways the burner can heat the boiler. Natural gas, electricity or oil is often used. Electrically heated boilers are generally pricier to run than those compared to those which are oil or gas-heated. However, they are also way easier to maintain and don’t become as damaged as the other two when they actually break. Electrically heated boilers can be seen in larger buildings, while boilers that run on gas or heat are more common in homes and smaller buildings.
Radiators versus Convectors
Radiators in a steam heat system transfer heat through fully exposed pipes. Convectors, on the other hand, are heating devices that work in a setup in which pipes that transfer heat are partially covered. Convectors and radiators are made in different shapes and sizes, and convectors are generally safer to touch because they are cooler than radiators. Still, both must be handled carefully.
How to Maintain a Steam Heat System
Steam heating systems may be low maintenance compared to the others, but this still require periodic maintenance to stay in good condition. A qualified service professional should come to check the system at least once every twelve months.
The user can manage the system’s day-to-day care needs. This includes, for example, watching the boiler’s water level and pressure gauges. If the water level dips too low, the boiler will only keep getting hotter and hotter without actually heating the building. Water must be added as soon as possible. If the pressure level is too higher, the danger could explode. By loosening the air valves temporarily, the pressure can return to normal. Lastly, the air valves should also be oiled every now and then.
Source: may xong hoi kho