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Posted by Don on April 14, 2002 at 02:29:55:
In Reply to: Re: water level posted by Ken on February 16, 2002 at 07:39:29:
: : I have a H B Smith steam boiler in my townhouse. Last year the feed water control (McDonnell #67) was replaced. I have noticed that this year the water level is only 2 inches above the low end of the water glass, the automatic feed will go on if I drain water from the boiler but only refills to this low level. The water feed also seems to come on more often but only for a short time. What is wrong?
: This is normal. 2" above the bottom of the gage glass is the spot virtually all boilers equipped with automatic feeders will stay.
: Be careful however, reliance on autofeeders will frequently 'mask' the problems associated with steam and water leaks within the heating system. Feeders typically make a snapping sound when triggered. If possible, try and recall how frequently you hear the feeder 'sanp' a day or week. A general rule of thumb is to not have to add more than 2" of water to a steam boiler in any week if very cold. If mild, 2" a month. If you suspect the feeding is occurring more frequently, perhaps some checking around needs to be done - and quick! Steam boilers do not last very long when subjected to high water usage.
Leak