How to Heat a Steam Boiler

While furnaces heat and distribute air throughout the home, steam boilers send steam through pipes that connect to steam radiators. After the steam vaporizes, it returns to the steam boiler for reheating. Because they operate at higher temperatures than water boilers and consume significant amounts of water to generate steam, steam boilers are less energy-efficient and require more maintenance. Moreover, water feeders must be monitored constantly to ensure a steady supply of make-up water to the steam boilers.

Manual or automatic water feeder
Water level gauge
Pressure valve
Low-water cut-off valve

Instructions

- 1
  Determine whether your steam boiler has an automatic water feed valve or manual water feeder valve. The water feed valve supplies water for the boiler to heat and generate steam. Locate the “manual water feed” button or lever if you need to override the automatic function or use it as an alternative if the automatic feed valve is broken.
- 2
  Look at the sight glass or water gauge to check the boiler’s water level. For manual feeders, add water if the water level has fallen to the “add” mark. Lift up the pressure release valve near the bottom of the boiler until you hear the air release. Release the valve once water begins to flow to the boiler.
- 3
  Locate the “Feed” button on the water feeder if you have an automatic feed valve. Use the counter to check and record the number of gallons required during an automatic feed cycle. Set the water feeder according to the time it takes for the water to reach the middle of the gauge or the make-up limit recommended by the manufacturer.
- 4
  Flush water from the low-water cut-off valve approximately once a week during the heating season. This improves heating efficiency and removes sediments, which can clog the boiler and cause the valve's cutoff controls to malfunction.

Types of Delta Shower Cartridges

How to Change a Drawer Belt

Other Home Appliances