STEAM

Steam Department

Department Head: Corey Lubovich 262-7725

Helpful Hints

After over 100 years of providing steam service to the city of Hibbing, the Hibbing Public Utilities remains fully committed to the continued operation of the steam district heating system. This unique system has been and will continue to be a viable, effective energy source for the residents of Hibbing well into the future. As the typical heat system in Hibbing ages, the HPUC realizes the need to support and assist in evaluating residential systems. We are committed to helping our customers maintain their systems. Through consultation, we can and will evaluate systems and advise the customers in maintaining a cost effective steam heat system as an energy source.

Signs of System Problems
Maintenance checks

Water dripping from meter dial housing indicates a trap problem.

Steam blowing from dial housing or elsewhere on the meter indicates a trap problem.

A very hot meter indicates a system problem. Possible bad trap or motorized valve stuck open.

Traps should be very hot. A cold trap indicates a bad trap or motorized valve stuck shut.

An unusually high steam consumption indicates a bad trap, stuck motorized valve, or a coil leak. A coil leak will typically be accompanied by a high water consumption.

A lack of hot water may indicate a fouled or plugged coil. In most instances, a lack of hot water can be remedied by an adjustment of the mixing valve.

Banging pipes indicate a possible trap problem.

Helpful Hints

A water softener is recommended for use in steam heating systems.
3/4 inch diameter tubing is recommended for use in heating coils, especially in unsoftened systems.
Often, a lack of hot water can be remedied by an adjustment of the mixing valve on the hot water tank.

Our staff will be happy to help assess problems with your steam heating system. We will help diagnose problems, or review recommendations from plumbers.
Contact: Corey Lubovich at 262-7725 or the Service Clerk at 262-7712
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