How to Clean Steam Radiators to Ensure They Remain Up-to-Code

If your home or office building has a steam radiator, there are some steps you can take to make sure it reliably gets you through winter each year. Inefficient radiators cost you money and make the space uncomfortable, sometimes even intolerable.

A steam radiator is a piping system that heats up radiators with steam from a central boiler. Air is vented by the unit and condensation from the steam runs back to the boiler through the pipe. Radiators are usually made of iron, steel, aluminum, or copper, providing a consistent heat that isn’t dry like forced-air heating systems.

Radiator units are exposed year-round and easily collects dust and cobwebs over the years. Take advantage of warm seasons when the radiator isn’t running to wipe down and dry the unit to keep it clean. Vacuum around and under the units to be sure to clear dust from those hard to reach spots.

Radiator units have two valves: the single-pipe supply valve and the air valve. The air valve prevents cool air from accumulating in the unit. Cool air results in cold spots on the radiator and encourages condensation, which can result in water accumulating in the unit. You can keep air valves clean by taking them off when the unit is cold and soaking them in a water and vinegar solution.

Make sure the supply valve is completely open or closed so the water will drain freely. When steam runs through the system and encounters cool water, it makes the clanging and banging that radiators give off. The temperature differences of the steam and water result in a loud, explosive reaction.

Checking the water level in the boiler will help you be sure that there is enough water and steam available to heat your building. The water level meter will show how much water is in the system, and whether or not you need to add more. Your manual will let you know the appropriate level for your model.

The combustion chamber for the boiler should be cleaned by a professional service every year to get rid of any buildup from the fire. It can become hazardous if left unattended.

Make sure pressure levels are appropriate for your building. Residential systems work with a lower pressure, below 0.5 psi, with larger buildings needing more pressure for vertical heating to reach higher building levels.

If you’ve recently moved or decided to do a renovation on your building with an old radiator system, you can have a professional service clean and paint your units to keep them in top condition for years to come. They will disconnect the radiator to clean it at their shop, using an abrasive blast cleaning process to give the metal a deep clean that also protects from rust and corrosive buildup.

Sandblasting radiators is a great opportunity to have them painted. A special heat and rust resistant paint will keep them in good condition, looking great, and won’t interfere with radiating heat into the room.

Homeowners in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have chosen ELCO for over three decades for their home renovation needs. To schedule a consultation for your radiator’s cleaning or painting needs, contact us today !