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Author:
bathjo (NY)
My apartment building was built in 1926 and I am having a hard time replacing my old cast-iron radiator with something more modern looking. All the modern-looking radiators I like require hot water heat, and my building uses steam. Can I connect a hydronic towel warmer to a 2-pipe steam (not hot water) system? The bathroom is small, approximately 40 square feet, and I'd like the towel warmer to be able to at least take the chill off the room on winter mornings. (I live in NY) Thanks for your help.
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Author:
hj (AZ)
Steam is going to be at least 240 degrees, which would leave a nasty burn if you were to come in contact with the towel warmer.
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Author:
packy (MA)
also the steam vent tapping needs to be 1/2 way up not at the top.
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Author:
m & m (MD)
The towel warmer must be rated specifically for steam heat. If not, it won't work.
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
packy,
assuming 1 pipe steam
which it most likely IS
but the OP's ? was two pipe steam
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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
OP,
remove the cast iron radiator
have it sand blasted to bare metal
apply several coats of FLAT FINISH hi-temp paint in the color of your choice
it will be $$$$$ but will look very very nice
==============================================
"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
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Author:
hj (AZ)
Two pipe steam units do NOT have vents.
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
correct
1 pipe steam = thermostatic air vent (inlet @ bottom)
2 pipe steam = steam trap (inlet usually @ top)
(not necessarily 'Hoffman' brand, but same principle)
for 1 pipe temperature may be 213 - 219 degree F.
for 2 pipe temperature may be 228 @ 5psi - 240 @ 10 psi
==============================================
"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
Edited 4 times.
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Author:
bathjo (NY)
Mine is a 2-pipe system. The Hoffman supply valve is at floor level on the left, and the trap is at the top right, with a long pipe leading back into the floor. (so everything comes from the floor) How difficult is it for a plumber to move either the valve or the 2nd pipe? Since my options are limited in terms of space, I might have to relocate the radiator.
Thanks for you help.
Edited 1 times.
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Author:
bathjo (NY)
This was done with the other radiators in the apartment, and yes, it looks great--but I am trying to use less space than the radiator takes up in the bathroom.
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Author:
bernabeu (SC)
what you said about the steam supply entering on the bottom and the (condensate) trap being on top should result in very loud 'banging' and steam 'hammer' at start-up
perhaps you are in error
steam will condense as it gives up it heat forming condensate which is a liquid and will run downhill - if it 'fights' the newly entering hot steam it will 'flash' back to gaseous steam and 'hammer'
a competent plumber/pipefitter can do any change you desire
==============================================
"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638
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Author:
bathjo (NY)
You are right, I had it backwards! The return is on the lower left.
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