Posted by Harold Kestenholz - Hydronic Network on June 12, 2001 at 15:24:50:
In Reply to: Re: Summer shut down clogged system posted by jtown on June 12, 2001 at 06:41:42:
J - did you catch that? The owner has had sludge continuously for 9 years, without knowing how to drain the RETURN system. Can one ASSUME that the sludge came from the SUPPLY? I wonder where the sludge was taken from.
Sludge is a natural product of steam systems and needs to be drained regularly. There would be little reason to turn off the power to the unit over the summer, as a good thermostat would keep the burner off - a bad thermostat would therefore be discovered by heating the house when there was no need.
Dan, a call to a knowledgeable heating plumber would be helpful. Ask him over the phone before he gets there if he can show you how to drain and service the system. It is money well-spent.