Why perform chemical washing of the heating system?

The chemical washing of the heating system is a maintenance procedure useful to clean the water circuit from all impurities that form and accumilate in the pipes. The washing is able to remove the incrustations, sludge and limestone residues that are deposited “naturally” over the years and can also cause major obstructions in the path of the circuit, causing a reduction in water flow and the consequent decrease in the efficiency of the plant itself. Therefore, chemical washing (remediation) is as useful as it is indispensable, especially for old plants. In addition, the characteristics of the water itself, the metal residues developed by corrosion within the circuits (e.g. corrosion from stray currents) and the small organic components (such as algae) circulating in the heating/cooling system may cause, over time, also damage to the operation of the machines (boiler, heat pump) or the plant itself (radiators, collectors, circulators, heat exchangers).

There are also cases in which this type of intervention is mandatory. In UNI 8065:2019 rule concerning the regulations for the treatment of water in winter and summer air conditioning systems, in solar systems and the production of sanitary water, we can read that the chemical washing of the system is mandatory when:
– A new system is realized;
– A building is renovated and it is included the heating system;
– A traditional boilers is replaced with a condensation boiler.
Chemical washing must always be carried out by professionals, as the use of chemical agents and hydraulic equipment is not common use, but especially to avoid further damage to the system. To ensure the correct operation and efficiency of the system, it is recommended to perform periodic washing according to the instructions of the maintainer and a verification of the chemical physical condition of the annual water (protective present in the system). Such operations result in great cost savings in bills and improved energy efficiency.

Tecnogas offers 4 solutions for the treatment of plants to meet different needs. The LiquidBlue line includes:

LiquidBlue 100 (SKU 70085): is an INHIBITOR liquid with anti-fouling action that prevents the formation of corrosion residues in closed or semi-closed circuits with temperatures from 10ºC to 130ºC. Its passivating agents create a protective film to protect the metal tubes. In addition, the biocidal agent penalizes the formation of bacterial flora and other organic by-products. The product should be diluted according to the data sheet. LiquidBlue 100 has a neutral pH, is not corrosive and should be allowed to circulate permanently inside the plant.

LiquidBlue 400 (SKU 70087): is a liquid CLEANER with anti-mud action on existing deposits and facilitates the dispersion leaving impurities in suspension in the circuit. The product is stable up to 130°C and is active in a pH range between 6,5 and 10. The active ingredients bring in solution the calcium salts and disperse deposits of silica and metal oxides. LiquidBlue 400 is designed to exploy a pickling action for a complete cleaning in the circuits of new and old systems. The liquid is to be diluted according to the specifications given in the data sheet. The product must be discharged from the heating circuit once the washing is finished.

LiquidBlue 700 (SKU 70086): is a biocidal liquid with a wide spectrum anti-algar action for heating and cooling circuits at low temperature. The product is biodegradable and non-corrosive and is effective even at low dosages. It can be used in closed, open and recirculated circuits, pasteurizers and evaporative condensers. It also reduces the formation of hydrogen sulfide of bacterial origin. Its effectiveness against legionella has been proven, after a contact of at least 5 hours. The liquid is to be diluted according to the specifications given in the data sheet. In remedial-disinfectant action the product must be discharged from the circuit once the washing is finished, while in biocidal protective action the product must be left permanently circulating in the system circuit.

LiquidBlue ZeroScarico (SKU 70095): is a PICKLING product, a protective cleaner that prevents the formation of corrosion deposits in closed or semi-closed circuits and can be used with magnetic filters. It removes corrosion and contaminant deposits inside central heating systems and facilitates the transport of debris to the magnetic filter for quick containment and easy dirt removal. It also provides long-term protection of domestic heating systems against internal corrosion and limestone formation. Particularly suitable for systems in which no treatment has been previously used, the liquid has a passivating action and its action in closed circuits is guaranteed in a range between -10°C and 130°C. The liquid is to be diluted according to the specifications given in the data sheet. LiquidBlue ZeroScarico has a neutral pH, is not corrosive and should be allowed to circulate permanently within the plant.