Steam Heating System Vibration

Hoping anyone can help. I have lived in our brownstone since 1996. Boiler and system have been reliable for many years. Starting 2 years ago, I noticed a vibrating noise that would come and go. I have had several “repairs” made as recommended by a heating company I have used for many years. Nothing has worked. When I have been near the boiler when this happens, the water lines going to the boiler and a separate hot water heater are actually vibrating. The noise occurs only at the time the boiler is on and pushing steam upstairs. It can go on for anywhere from a minute to several minutes. It also stops the second I open the manual water feed valve at the boiler. Has anyone experienced a similar problem?

Guest User | 6 years and 7 months ago

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Master Plvmber | 6 years and 7 months ago

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john@72FLLC.com

Guest User | 6 years and 7 months ago

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Master P, how do I get in connect with you?

Master Plvmber | 6 years and 7 months ago

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Bobk, I don’t know your setup of course, but the 47-2 is sort of an archaic device for controlling the water level in a residential system and I was wondering why a homeowner was posting a question about it. The “-2” in the model number denotes it handles two functions: it’s a *low water cut off* and *automatic water feeder* in one. So, to replace it means you’d probably want to separate those two functions into two different devices. Of course, you don’t actually need an automatic water feeder. You could just add water yourself every few weeks or however long it takes for your system to deplete it’s contained water. I have a strong preference for using the water feeder, especially one with an integral digital water meter, but that’s not everyone’s first choice. Replacing the 47-2 with a new LWCO and autofeed unit is going to take some piping changes and a little re-wiring, but yes, I’d do it if that device is failing now. Tracking water usage with the digital me ter in the newer feed units reveals a great deal about the overall health of the system beyond the boiler itself.
https://hydrolevel.com/vxt-24-and-120-steam/
Good luck.

Guest User | 6 years and 7 months ago

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So I got down to the basement this morning when the vibrating started. Chris, it is pure vibrating not knocking. Following eman134’s advice, I turned the the auto feed valve off and the noise stopped. Waited 30 seconds, opened the valve and the noise started again. Once I put some water in manually the noise stopped. However, now I have another issue, an air valve that was replaced a year ago on a vertical line of the system in the basement is hissing and spitting water and soaking a wood beam.

Master P-would it be better to just to replace the 47-2? I never had this model before it was installed 4 years ago and also never had any problem like this until after it was installed.

Master Plvmber | 6 years and 7 months ago

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Bob, the slow-opening valve in that 47-2 is somewhat notorious for squeals and chatters. It’s a pricey unit and so are the replacement parts. Here’s what you’d need to make that sound go away: https://www.afsupply.com/mcdonnell-miller-sa47-101-102-341600-cartridge-and-strainer-assembly-for-47-247-847.html

lkrshacmzcy | 6 years and 7 months ago

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Is it pure vibrating and not knocking or banging?

lkrshacmzcy | 6 years and 7 months ago

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Is it pure vibrating and not knocking or banging?

eman134 | 6 years and 7 months ago

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have you been able to shut off water feed when it vibrates? That is a simple float activated unit . …if the vibration stops, it indicates the unit is fouled…its a pretty easy fix if that is the case

Guest User | 6 years and 7 months ago

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I have a McDonnell Miller 47-2. It was only installed about 4 years ago.

eman134 | 6 years and 7 months ago

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what kind of auto water feed do you have? next time it happens shut the water supply and see if the noise stops…if so its a problem with the auto feed