New Steam Boiler First Firing & "No Return" Flush

[@ChrisB-xl4tq]

Looks like my Utica steam boiler I put in last fall Always nice workmanship!!

[@Ericbakereb1]

Nice and clean install.

[@davidlampe4153]

Interesting video thank you. Never occurred to me that no return flush would be from wet return, but it makes sense that collecting the dirt would be in the lowest part of the system. Now it’s clear why the dead men left long dirt pockets at the end of the steam mains and the wet returns are 6 inches above the dirt legs. I will need to get the dirt legs replaced in the next boiler.

[@JamesBrown-db9pk]

xcelent as allways nice work gordy

[@captainwho1]

No shutoff valve on the Hartford Loop on this one? If I had one of those I'd be able to do your no return flush. The list of things I wish the previous owner had done is very long ha ha. The wet return has a 1-1/4 copper going to a 1/2" concentric bushing to a gate type drain valve. Lots of mud probably in there that never comes out.

[@gordonschweizer5154]

The newer copper return was unlikely to have many issues, so I opted to get the boiler in operation test mode asap and isolate any likely issues with the old steel wet return.

[@jazzcornertv]

Just curious of a good place to dispose of the sludge without eventually clogging the drain line?

[@gordonschweizer5154]

Most of the time, its just rusty water, and that's not a problem going down the drain. The water with "chunks in" can be decanted off, and the stuff at the bottom dumped outside in an unobtrusive location.

[@jazzcornertv]

@gordonschweizer5154 Thank you. I was concerned about how sediment builds in a pig tail, then multiply it on your drain but your explanation and suggestion of a less obstructive place is a great balance when needed.

[@mikerefrigeration5736]

Quick question is it possible to replace a mechanical low water cutoff with a probe type on an older steam boiler?

[@gordonschweizer5154]

It is possible if there is a plug on the boiler in the manufacture's "approved" location that can be removed. Beyond that, you will need to hang a Hydrolevel 711C manifold on the sight glass assembly and go from there.

[@dannywilkins887]

How long will the return flush take Gordon?,im guessing it would never be completely clean

[@gordonschweizer5154]

The best result is to show that the return is not clogged. After that, you are absolutely correct, there is no reasonable end-point of "cleanliness" for such returns.

[@BOSS_805]

IS THERE ANY WAY TO CONTACT YOU THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA OR MESSAGING? I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS THAT ARE PROBABLY SIMPLE TO YOU REGARDS TO STEAM HEAT

[@gordonschweizer5154]

Your best bet is to post your questions and pictures on HeatingHelpDOTcom.