5 Ways to Keep Your Hydronic System Clean

A hydronic system must be cleaned and treated frequently to protect the system components and maximize its efficiency. There are several signs that a system needs to be cleaned, such as a noisy boiler, seized or noisy pumps, leaks, no heat or reduced heat production, and valves that are closing properly. Having a routine cleaning schedule in place will prevent any of these situations from happening to your system.

1. Flush New Systems
   When a new system is installed, it should be flushed to remove any debris, solder flux, pipe dope, oil, etc. This step should never be skipped as you’d be surprised by what you may find in some brand-new systems. It’s best to rely on experts in hydronic fluid treatment and system cleaning. They can prescribe a cleaning and treatment regime appropriate to the materials in your system and to the condition of the local water.
   
   
2. Install a Filtration Device
   Filtration methods pull iron oxide out of the system. Iron oxide can build up and create sludge in a hydronic system and can reduce heat transfer by as much as 15%.
   
   
3. Use Cleaning Chemicals
   There are a wide range of chemical cleaners available that are specifically formulated to clean and condition hydronic systems. Cleaners remove sludge and prevent clogging and corrosion. Chemical cleaning products also extend the life of your system and allow them to run more efficiently.
   
   
4. Establish & Maintain Good Water Quality
   Water is the lifeblood of hydronic systems. Your best bet is to use demineralized water for your hydronic system to avoid any corrosion issues. You can either fill the system with demineralized water or fill the system with source water and then demineralize it.
   
   
5. Perform Routine Cleanings and Flushes
   As an older system becomes fouled by sludge, rust/lime scale, algae, etc., it needs to be cleaned and flushed. Regular maintenance checks should include draining fluid samples and checking pH and chemical inhibitors.

These tips will help you extend the life of your hydronic system and help it work at peak efficiency. If you need advice or help in keeping your hydronic system clean, contact our team of heat transfer specialists.