Tridicator Readings

[Bill Smith]

Do any of you take tridicator readings at boilers?

I record the readings ( I find it interesting) and use them as an indication of a possible water-logged expansion tank or a system that requires servicing, but don't include them in my report.

As I understand it : A single level house should read about 12 lbs. pressure. A two-story home (or one with three or more zones) should be about twice that.
Does that seem about right?

[Larry D. Kage]

Yes, I take tridicator (single guage giving both temp/psi) readings and they should not typically exceed normal operating limits of 200 degrees F or 30 psi.

[Jason A. Sieg, CMI]

lkage Yes, I take tridicator (single guage giving both temp/psi) readings and they should not typically exceed normal operating limits of 200 degrees F or 30 psi. Today 10:44 AM

Right next to the gage there should be a TPR valve. It normally is a 200 degree F or 30 psi TPR. If you see signs of water below it that would be a sign that their could me a problem... (water logged expansion tank)... Usually the problem is that someone has tightened the "Valve Stem Cap" on the top of the expansion tank. It should be loose so it can let out water. The cap is designed with cut-out slots on the sides so that the water doesn't shoot out into the air and burn someone or other hazards.

Here in Michigan you have to be licensed to install a boiler system (No Homeowners Permit at all). They are best inspected by a licensed professional. (On that note, it is still good to know something about them. I installed an entire baseboard hot water heat system myself for a couple that I do handyman work for (their business) on their own home. We had a licensed Engineer to pull the permit, look over my work & be their for the inspection. Both felt I did the nicest, cleanest job installing the whole system they have seen in a long time. Made me feel proud that day.

[Larry D. Kage]

Originally Posted by bsmith

As I understand it : A single level house should read about 12 lbs. pressure. A two-story home (or one with three or more zones) should be about twice that.
Does that seem about right?

Bill, I believe most pressure reducing valves come pre-set at 12 psi. I usually find about 12 psi up to about 20/22 psi, depending on the height to push the water ( 1 psi raises it 2.31 feet), but below the pre-set relief at 30 psi. While operating, I’ve seen them running 120/140 to180/200 degrees F.

Here is some good info:

http://www.inspect-ny.com/heat/asheat01.htm#boilers

http://www.bellgossett.com/homeowners/PressureReducingValve.htm

[Bill Smith]

Good info - thanks guys.