Used or New Radiators?

You are puzzling me a little, as baseboard steam radiators are unusual. Most baseboard radiators, even sectioned cast iron, are hydronic – hot water not steam. Cast iron radiators are generic, in that they have threaded connections that accommodate various diameter connections. The conversion to the size your system uses is accomplished through the use of adapters called bushings. These bushings are inexpensive and available at all plumbing supply houses. This technology is mature, and old radiators are the same configuration. To adapt a used radiator may involve removing a bushing and replacing it with a different bushing. Sometimes the threads need to be repaired using taps of the correct size. Often, tradespeople don’t want to take the time to “futz” with ornate, older radiators. I wouldn’t be remotely concerned with smell coming off a hydronic radiator, they just don’t get hot enough. I seriously doubt a radiator used for steam would bean odor problem once it has heated up a few cycles. We usually spray them with Rustoleum high heat paint, and we haven’t had problems.

brucef

in About Brooklyn 11 years and 11 months ago

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elisenew | 11 years and 11 months ago

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We are replacing two baseboard radiators (too small, wrong kind) with larger steam ones. Any advice on whether to buy used or new ones? We are concerned about off-gasing smells with new ones, but old ones might be painted and possibly have unseen problems? Also, should we buy them, or, have a plumber take care of buying and installing them? As you can tell, we don’t have any experience with this. Thanks so much.