American standard Ideal boiler

[Craig]

We bought a house last year with the original 1920s boiler. The boiler works great. I am looking for information on it. There is no pump and it has the old expansion tank in the ceiling. I was wondering how much pressure should be in the system? I doubt the pressure gauge is correct but in the dead of winter with it cycling, the pressure does sit right at 12psi according to the gauge. The boiler does have to run awhile for the hot water to make it upstairs. I think its normal but others I have talked to don't think its normal. Also I know nothing about the old expansion tanks on whether its working correct or not. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Fitter30]

Gauge is called triacator gauge shows temperature, altitude and pressure. Boiler pressure is determined by system height from boiler gauge height to the top of the highest radiator plus 3-5 lbs look at the altitude on the gauge for your height or height divided by 2.31. On the radiators at the top of a end section your will find a coin vent and it will have a square shaft and a little spout on its side. Its used for bleeding air from the radiator. Need a coin vent key to operate the valve. After system is filled boiler coming up to temp pressure rises more than few lbs expansion tank is full of water and has to be drained and all depends if there is a valve in its line or whole system has to be drained. Don't know how many boilers are in your area but might want to ask around for recommendations for a company
When your system was designed gas was cheap boiler efficiency wasn't even thought about.
There a safety device that your pics don't show it might be built in behind the front cover its a low water cut off that shuts the burner off if the boiler runs out of water for any reason.