Removing a steam radiator primarily involves disconnecting it from the steam riser using its union. However, safety is paramount and requires careful preparation.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
-
Shut Off the Steam Supply: This is crucial. The entire system needs to be turned off before starting. Contact your building manager or heating professional to ensure the system is off and the pressure is released. Never attempt to remove a radiator from an active steam system. Serious injury could result.
-
Allow Radiator to Cool Completely: After shutting off the steam supply, give the radiator ample time to cool down completely. Working on a hot radiator poses a burn hazard.
-
Locate the Union: The union is a fitting that connects the radiator to the steam supply pipe (the riser). It usually consists of two threaded ends and a middle section that can be unscrewed.
-
Prepare for Water: Steam radiators often contain water (condensate). Have buckets and towels ready to catch any water that spills when you disconnect the radiator.
-
Loosen the Union: Use two wrenches. Place one wrench on the pipe leading to the steam riser to hold it steady, and the other wrench on the union nut. Carefully loosen the union nut. It may be tight and require some effort. Penetrating oil can help.
-
Disconnect the Union: Once the union nut is loose, carefully separate the two halves of the union.
-
Tip and Drain the Radiator: Carefully tip the radiator to drain any remaining water into your buckets.
-
Remove the Radiator: With the union disconnected and the water drained, you can now lift and remove the radiator. It can be quite heavy, so get help if needed.
-
Cap the Pipes (Important!): If you are not immediately replacing the radiator, you must cap the open steam riser pipe to prevent steam leaks when the system is reactivated. Use a properly sized threaded cap and pipe dope for a tight seal. This is essential.
Summary of Steps:
| Step | Action | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shut off Steam Supply | Ensure complete system shutdown |
| 2 | Cool Down Radiator | Avoid burns |
| 3 | Locate Union | Identify connection point |
| 4 | Prepare for Water | Buckets and towels ready |
| 5 | Loosen Union | Use two wrenches; Penetrating oil if needed |
| 6 | Disconnect Union | Separate union halves carefully |
| 7 | Drain Radiator | Tip and drain into buckets |
| 8 | Remove Radiator | Get help if needed; Heavy! |
| 9 | Cap Pipes | Essential to prevent leaks; Use pipe dope |
Disclaimer: Working with steam systems can be dangerous. If you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, it's best to hire a qualified heating professional.
