Steam Radiator and Air Valve Repair

By Bob Formisano, About.com Guide

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Steam Radiator Does Not Get Hot

Steam Radiator Does Not Get Hot

A radiator air valve may be stuck shut, retaining cold air in the radiator and preventing steam from entering. Try to clean the valve as outlined in the tutorial How to Clean Steam Radiator Air Vents.
If the valve does not open and close after cleaning, then the steam radiator air valve needs to be replaced.
Radiator supply valve is shut. Make sure supply valve is fully open (turned counter-clockwise)
Radiator is improperly sloped. It should slop slightly toward the end of the radiator having the supply pipe/valve. Shim as necessary to achieve proper pitch of 1" for every 10 feet toward the supply pipe / supply valve.
Check that the thermostat in the room is requiring heat and is set above room temperature.
Check for proper boiler operation.