The Basics of a Steam Heat Systems

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 was once widespread, many other newer systems have cropped up over the years. Still, it is undeniable that steam heating systems are more dependable and easier to maintain compared to any other modern heating system used nowadays.

Additionally, upgrading a heating system can be a very complex and pricey endeavor. 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.

Basics of the Steam Heat System

A water boiler, a burner, radiators/convectors and pipes are the major components of a steam heating system. The way the system works is rather straightforward. The boiler applies heat to the water and converts it to steam. This steam then goes down the pipes and into the radiators and/or convectors in every room. This is the way stem heat is distributed all over a building. As the energy spreads, the steam reduces its temperature and converts back into water, which is then reheated by the boiler.

How the Boiler Is Heated

There are several ways the boiler can be heated by the burner. Usually, oil, electricity or natural gas is used. Boilers heated by electricity are generally more expensive to operate than those that are heated by gas or oil. However, they are so much easier to maintain, and, when they actually break, cause less damaged compared to the other two types. 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. On the other hand, convectors are heating devices in a setup where heat-moving pipes are partly shielded. Radiators and convectors come in various shapes and sizes, and convectors are generally safer to touch as they are cooler than radiators. Still, extreme care is necessary when handling either.

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. Every part of the system should be checked by a qualified service professional at least once a year.

The daily care needs of the system can be handled by the user. For example, the boiler’s pressure and water gauges must be monitored. If the water level dips too low, the boiler will only keep getting hotter and hotter without actually heating the building. Water should be added at the soonest possible time. With a very high pressure reading, the boiler could actually explode. By loosening the air valves temporarily, the pressure can return to normal. Finally, air valves should as well be oiled on a regular basis.

Source: May xong hoi