Cleaning a Heat Exchanger

Brad White

A typical detail we use has full-port ball valves inside the isolation valves such that the exchanger can be isolated from both systems serving it.

The ball valves are fitted with hose-ends or a means of connection for power back-flushing and any de-scaling chemicals to be used. Vinegar to dilute muriatic acid, depending on your material and targeted fouling.

I leave the chemicals to the treatment guys; just mentioning the detail should you find it convenient.

Rob L_3

Cleaning a Heat Exchanger

I have a FlatPlate style heat exchanger in the field that has become caked up with lime scale from several years of service. System has worked well but now it needs cleaning out.
Have you needed to do this before? How did you clean it out? I suppose a soak in a mild acid solution would work.

Rob L

hot_rod

Is it easily removed?

If so take it to a radiator repair shop. They will safely "cook" 'em clean for a few bucks.

If you can install HXers with Webstone purge/ ball valves. This allows you to pump a de-lime solution through them. I use hercules Sizzle. An acid blended for this exact purpose.

I always suggest a water softener to my customers. Some just won't have one, so they learn that clean outs could be a yearly or by-yearly task.

Ball valves and unions make for a quick removal. Several of my "non-softened" customers do their own HX maintenance on those Danfoss HX ZCP panels I installed on their water heaters for radiant. in fact one turned my onto the radiator shop fix.

hot rod