loud steam from home raiator (NYC)?

Question

hello,
I just moved into an tenement apartment building in nyc(brroklyn). My apartment was newly renovated with central AC and covered radiator heater. The heat is controlled by the landlord. Every time the the radiator comes on, It's steam valve is too loud for comfort. I actually have to shut off the radiator in the evening because the sound of steam releasing is extremely loud.

Does anyone have suggestion to how i might fix this? There's no "hammering" sound, just loud steam. I have my doubt going through the super.

thanks

Answer 1

I have 3 cast iron radiators in my apartment and only 2 of them work. The one in my bedroom doesn't make that much noise, mostly a clicking sound and occasionally an almost silent hiss. The one in the living room hisses so loudly and violently that you have to blast the TV if you want to hear it and you practically need to shout to be heard. I've tried replacing the steam valve three times but nothing will stop the noise. If I shut it off altogether, it leaks all over the floor. I removed the little steam valve just to see what would happen and the entire room filled up with steam and all the windows/mirrors fogged up, BUT it was silent. I had no choice but to put the valve back on. I think there is a pressure problem that I'm unable to fix without involving a professional. There's nothing else I can try on my own and my super is a drunk who only speaks Polish so I just have to live with it.

Answer 2

First of all, make certain there is plenty of room between the cover and the radiator. This could pose a safety hazard. Secondly, the air vent is most likely in need of replacement or cleaned.

There are other issues that can be evident here, such as excessive pressure, leaks, etc.

If you have doubts about the super, call an reputable HVAC tech or plumber to assess the problem.

Hope this helps.