A tragic accident occurred recently in temporary housing in the Bronx that has raised questions about the safety of a steam radiator. Two young sisters were found deceased, lying next to the radiator. It appears the radiator malfunctioned. The investigation is ongoing as answers to many questions are sought. What was the nature of the malfunction of the radiator? Do radiators need to be inspected? Are malfunctioning radiators dangerous?
Most steam radiators have two valves. People may have minor problems with the valves, especially at the beginning of the season of cold weather. Valves can break off when they are used to turn the radiator on and off or to control the temperature of the room.
Most injuries from steam radiators occur from contact with the hot metal. Injury from steam is rare. We encourage you to inspect your steam radiators before you turn them on and often during the winter months. Contact us to answer your questions and insure the safety of your home and family.
Erik Gitli, owner and master plumber at Aladdin Plumbing, stated valves could be easily replaced.
Most steam radiators have two valves, according to Erik Gitli, owner and master plumber at Aladdin Plumbing Corp. in Brooklyn. “Those can be checked periodically and replaced as needed.”
He said it is not unusual to have minor problems with the valves, usually at the beginning of the season when radiators are turned on.
Valve breakages can be caused by repeatedly using the valves to turn the radiators on or off or to control the room’s temperature. “Those valves tend to leak after doing that too many times,” he said. If a valve completely breaks off, the room can fill with steam, creating condensation that can warp wood and damage paint. “It’s like being in a steam room,” Mr. Gitli said.
Steam radiators take water from a furnace and push the heated water to the radiator. The steam heats the radiator. Subsequently, the heat rises from the radiator and warms the room. Radiators are one of the most efficient ways of heating a room. Keep your system clean for optimal warming ability and savings on energy cost.
The tragedy in the Bronx earlier this month continues to be investigated. If you have questions or concerns about a steam radiator or heating system, contact Aladdin Plumbing today.