Proper protocol in replacing a circulating pump

Jeff Joseph

Hi,

Is there a published protocol for replacing a circulating pump in a heating system? Let's say someone replaced the pump, and pressurized a system that had not been used for a period of time. And let's say that some hours later, water leaked out of the system from the overhead radiators (perhaps bleed valves that failed?) - Is there some protocol in a text book or code that would specify that the system be checked for leaks after pressurization? Or is there some other principle involved that
a plumber would be expected to adhere to in order to avoid liability?

Ken_40

Jeff,

Your question has two componets that are unrelated. Circulaters and the "protocol" to size them, and the issue of protecting a system that will be unused over a period of time and if there's a way to do so - in writing?

There is no need to have a running circulater/pump to test for leaks. Simply filling the system up with enough house water pressure to fil the system and exceed that pressure by a small margin, while listening for air escaping or seeing water - is common sense, requiring no "written protocol."

The sizing of a circulater/pump does require some baisc design or engineering skill, but is hardly an exact science anyhow.

Regarding a "protocol" for draining a water based system to protect it from damage while unoccupied for extended periods, there is no protocol needed. "Drain the system" is it. That also implies ALL THE SYSTEM. Any remainin puddle of water anyhere in a home subject to freezing, inluding all drain traps, is a commonplace experience and common knowledge.

If someone left any water in the heating system of a home left unattended for a period of time when the normal weather cycle is prone to frost, there would be liability indeed.

Jeff Joseph

Proper protocol in replacing a circulating pump

Hi Ken,

thanks for your response. I think I may have phrased my question improperly. I wasn't referring to the correct scaling of a circulating pump's size per se, but more the liability involved for leaks that occur within 24 hours of replacing a failed pump in a system that had not been pressurized for at least a year. (although, if one put in a pump that put too much pressure into a system I would assume some liability exists) So is it reasonable to assume that when you replace a pump in a system that you would need to check for leaks? And what would be the normal steps taken?

Jeff

Ken_40

Now I have it...

The new circ.pump has NOTHING to do with the leak! The pump MAY increase pressure slightly in a fewareas of the system but not beyond the system's inherent capacity to handle - unless: there was a component that was already comrpomoised by frost or similar malady!

Assuming the system was already filled, and the circ./pump replaced because the existing one did not function, would not logically require someone replacing a part in an already filled system to check for upstairs leaks.

In a perfect world, anytime anyone did anything to a system, they would wait a few hours and see that EVERYTHING related to the heating system is okay. The 'stat setting, all the pipes, the combustion properties, the chimney condition, CO presence, water leaks everywhere, valve stem packing, room by room comfort, ad naseum.

But if the circ./pump was bad, and someone replaced it, found it worked after the change out...

No. I would not consider failing to do anything other than what was asked; namely to replace a circ./pump - as being expected or necessary.

[Deleted User]

Are you an attorney or a lawyer??

Just wondering... The only phraseology you didn't use was "standard of care"...

ME

tim smith

protocol

Been here, we have had this happen over the years and it is quite frustrating. Some times system is low on water, someone else has opened a bleeder and not closed it. We arrive to find system low on water, no leaks present. Fill system and dang, overhead shower. Learned quickly to check for any bleeders open before filling, check attic expansion tank if there is one as roofers like to cut off the old rusty line on roof as it looks abandoned. Had this happen a few times. Protocol through learning and spending. Hope this helps..