What to do when my radiatoris missing a knob?
I purchased an apartment this summer and just realized that one of the steam radiators in the apartment is missing the knob which is used to adjust the heat. How do I deal with this? Can I easily get and install a new knob?
I purchased an apartment this summer and just realized that one of the steam radiators in the apartment is missing the knob which is used to adjust the heat. How do I deal with this? Can I easily get and install a new knob?
A steam radiator control valve should either be opened all the way or shut all the way. It isn’t used to “adjust” the heat. A partially open valve will not let the steam return quickly as water to the boiler resulting in banging, hissing, and other unpleasant noises.
If you want to adjust the heat from the radiator I suggest getting an adjustable air valve. The bigger the opening, the more heat will be provided.
You could also do research on this site. I believe there’s another type of temperature control valve you could add, but you’d need to get a plumber to do it.
You can buy a universal handle at any decent hardware store but don’t use the valve to regulate the heat if it’s a steam heating system.
You’ll cause a lot of trouble that way.
it can probably be replaced but wuithout seeing it it’s hard to say. in the mean time: vice grips!