Posted by Keith on April 30, 2000 at 07:07:43:
The Hartford loop was a valuable tool in the days of gravity return steam systems but is it of any value today? If installed in conjunction with a forced feed system (condensate return tank, feed pp etc) the Hartford Loop is a detriment to safe boiler operation.
If the check valve in the condensate line between the feed pump and the boiler fails, or leaks, the boiler will force the boiler water out of the boiler and into the condensate return tank resulting in boiler failure or explosion. I open this subject for discussion because a reputable boiler mfg. recommends using a Hartford Loop when installing their CIS L/P stm boiler with a forced condensate return system.