As an active broker of century homes – I feel the need to make a case for radiators. While on many property showings, I generally watch prospective purchasers accustomed to forced air furnaces, recoil at radiators. However given here in Toronto we have months of severe dry weather; radiant heat offers a more consistent heat with the added element of moisture. The radiant heat does a great job of adding a much less dry heat, adding moisture to the ambient air.
Here are a few tips on Radiators and in particular their maintenance:
1. Don’t throttle a one-pipe steam radiator. The steam and condensation have to share that confined space. Keep the valve either fully open or fully closed to avoid water hammering and squirting air vents.
2. Create a perfect pitch. One-pipe steam radiators must pitch toward the supply valve. Use two checkers under radiator feet—they’re the perfect shape and size.
3. Gain control. Thermostatic radiator valves are a great way to zone any radiator and save fuel. Hot-water and two-pipe steam radiators get them on the supply side; one-pipe steam radiators get them between the radiator and the air vent.
4. Get a great finish. Pros agree that sandblasting followed by powder coating gives the best, long-lasting, non-sticky finish—we suggest a professional to assist you with this!
