Some losses of steam/heat energy will occur during the distribution of steam. These can be minimised by investigating the following actions.

Correctly size and install pipework

Steam and heat losses can be minimised in pipework by:

1. removing redundant pipework

2. not over-sizing as the larger surface area will increase heat losses as well as increase insulation and maintenance costs

3. not under-sizing as the pipes will require higher pressure (and therefore additional pumping energy) and consequently often have high leakage rates

4. ensuring correct layout, for example, valve outlets from the distribution headers allows unused sections of the plant to be turned off

5. sloping down pipework in the direction of flow

6. using steam traps at any low points where condensate collects. 

Rectifying steam leaks

Steam leaks are hot water lost from the system and require colder feedwater to be added back into the system. Chemicals and fuels are also required to treat and heat that water. These leaks should be identified and repaired as soon as possible.