This was my first book and a true labor of love. I spent decades studying steam and the work of Dead Men, in both old buildings and on library shelves. I traveled the country, haunting used-book stores, looking for engineering books that held the answers to questions that nagged at me. I was obsessed with this topic, and when I finally sat to write, I poured all that I had learned into this book, and as I wrote, I tried my best to make the words sound good to you - like we were together and having a conversation. I wanted you to know what I know and I wanted you to be able to do what I can do when it comes to old steam systems. This book arrived in 1992 and has since gone though dozens of printings. We've sold it in every state as well as in foreign countries. Steam heat is everywhere there are old buildings, so why shouldn't you be the one with the answers? Dan Holohan

If you're a homeowner with steam heat, know that I wrote this one for you. If you'd like to fix uneven heat and squirting air vents or want to reduce your fuel bills and silence clanging pipes, then arm yourself with this book and smile. This is not a do-it-yourself book. Here's what you'll learn: How your steam-heating system works (and why it might not) What each component does (or what it's supposed to do) Why high pressure in a steam-heating system won't work How the choice of fuels can affect your system What causes all that noise (and how to get ride of it once and for all) Simple ways to lower your fuel bill What you can do yourself When you should keep your hands in your pockets How to find a steam-heating pro (and how to avoid the knuckleheads) Things that should be in every contract you sign for steam-heating work The right questions to ask when replacing a boiler How to fix, move, clean, paint and/or replace an old radiator How to have a hot-water zone added to your steam-heating system How to know if you can have your steam-heating system converted to hot-water heat And a whole lot more Arm yourself with this book. You will not be sorry. Dan Holohan