Steam Radiant Heating System

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Steam Radiant Heating System
Steam radiators are nostalgic and not often used today. They are characterized by cast iron upright radiators radiating heat with steam.
Steam systems come in two varieties, one-pipe and two-pipe systems. With one-pipe systems the water and steam travel in the same pipe but in opposite directions. In two-pipe systems steam flows in one pipe and water condensate returns in another set of pipes.

Distribution

Heat is distributed with steam piping and radiator units
Fuel Sources

Steam boiler may be fueled by natural gas, propane, oil or electricity
Advantages

Efficient and warms spaces quickly
Radiant heat is comfortable
Old hot water system radiators can now be replaced with smaller convection units or vertical wall panel radiators
Disadvantages

Radiators can be unsightly
Radiator locations may limit furniture placement and window coverings
Air conditioning requires a separate ductwork distribution and cooling system.

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