The good, the bad, and the ugly.

In response to the number of complaints we have been receiving it's time we examined our current steam generated heating system in closer detail.
The good:
1)Steam heat generated by a boiler is good for tall structures as the steam rises easily to the upper floors.
2)Steam heat warms quickly.
3)Our system let's us switch between oil and gas in order to save money.
 The bad:
1)Boiling water into steam is inherently dangerous. Possibility of explosions and dry fires.
2)Efficiency rating up to 80%, other systems as high as 98%
3)Oil tanks can leak causing environmental damage. A problem we experienced in the past.
4)Uneven heating. Radiators (contrary to their name) fail to radiate heat evenly.
5)Boilers require more maintenance than other heating methods.
6)No individual thermostat for each apartment or room.
The ugly:
1)Radiators have had little improvement other than aesthetic.
2)Radiators that do have higher efficiency use smaller diameter piping and smaller boilers (Not helpful).
3)New model radiators are expensive. Large living room units cost up to $1000*. not including installation.

Conclusion: It is too expensive to replace radiators and it offers very little benefit. Cleaning them will improve heat transfer, and valves should be replaced when they fail to close or openly completely. This is due to sedimentary deposits that have built up over time. N.Y. law requires VV to maintain a temperature of 68 degrees from 6 A.M.-10 P.M., and 55 degrees between 10 P.M.-6 A.M.**  If your apartment fails to meet those guidelines please call the maintenance office.
* http://www.steamradiators.com/pricing.html
**www.nyc.gov/html/hpd/html/pr2006/pr-10-01-06.shtml