How & When do I know when the boiler is full?

[Alucard41]

Hi again, and thanks for the help. In a previous thread, I got some advice on removing a 5' section of a radiatorfrom my kitchen. I found that I can just cap off both ends as that won't disturb the flow.
However, I do have a couple of questions concerning draining and filling the boiler:
1. I assume that since the boiler, about 6 years old, is in the basement, that I will need to drain almost the entire system or at least below the Kitchen level. How do I know when I've drained enough, other than cutting the pipe and hoping that I won't get wet?
2. How do I know when it's filled and how much? There is a valve with an end that I can put a garden hose onto in order to fill it.
3. I also assume that I need to sweat the caps on and not use compression or some other type of fitting, as this would be too convenient. Am I correct?
Thanks very much as I really appreciate it. Normally, I would have a professional do this but I'm in a time crunch.

[bob100]

I'l take a stab at your questions.

1. When no more water comes out of the drain, the system will be empty. Close the incoming water valve and turn off power before draining.

2. When water comes out of the highest bleeder valve, the system is full. By the way, that valve with the garden hose end is probably the drain valve. There will be a connection to the water lines of the house with a auto-fill valve/regulator.

3.yes, sweat cap on if copper.

[KField]

A good way to drain only what is necessary is to put a hose on the drain valve. If you have one other than the one on the bottom of the boiler, use that one. Sometimes the one on the bottom of the boiler is a cheapo and there is always some gunk in the boiler that may ruin the valve if you use it. You won't know until you refill and it leaks. Now back to the real question. Put the drain hose end at a level that is below the kitchen floor level. Maybe in the driveway or where ever. Don't let it syphon by putting the hose up over a pipe in the basement and then putting the end in the sump. It will drain the entire boiler that way. It is a thermal shock to your boiler to drain it all the way and then refill it with cold water. It is much better for the boiler to let it full if possible. Sorry for getting long winded but I don't want your job to be any more difficult than necessary.

Ken

[Ed Imeduc]

Not there dont see it But you sure you can cap the lines on both ends. Might want to tie them in. Id put a bleeder on each just for kicks :confused:

ED ;)