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

A reference you'll warm up to From the background and basics of heating systems to the newest chip-based technology, this first volume of Audel's HVAC Library gives you comprehensive information you need on the job. Whether you're installing, servicing, repairing, or troubleshooting an old or new heating system, you'll find what you're looking for, from wood and coal furnace maintenance to new calculations and the latest environmental technologies and regulations. * Review the basics of installation, wiring, and troubleshooting for different HVAC systems * Choose the correct system for the space, climate, and needs * Compare the economy and efficiency of various fuel types * Install, maintain, and troubleshoot conversion units * Find formula cross references, data tables with conversions, and listings of trade organizations and equipment manufacturers

“Steam heating systems come in many varieties and sizes. Steam systems need regular maintenance, or small problems will occur. When the small problems are not addressed, they will cause other small problems to arise. A large steam heating system with scores of small problems will not heat properly and fuel consumption can increase dramatically, but worst of all, the banging in these systems, as my mentor would say, is like the ‘hammers of hell.’” Jacob (Jake) Myron wrote this book as an easy-to-understand self-help guide for those in the occupation dealing with steam systems. He feels a huge gratitude to this industry, and he shares his over forty years of successful experience in this book to give something back to his beloved profession and colleagues.