cleaning new cast iron boiler installations

Rick Rolston

Thanks for the tips on using TSP (I found that a handful in a half full bucket works for me)

What I really wanted to know is why would a boiler manufacturer (with push-nipples) would not recommend a routine cleaning of a new boiler. The reason I asked is that by not cleaning the new boiler and system, problems are arising with water lubricated pumps, flow control valves and probe type LWCO's

Rick Rolston

Cleaning New Cast Iron Boiler Installations

I've been finding an above average amount of NO HEAT calls due to electronic low water cut-off failures on relatively new forced hot water systems with new cast iron boilers. Upon further investigation, I'm finding the LWCO probes on the 24V units coated with an oily black deposit coating, thereby electricly insulating the proble from the boiler water.

I contacted the Boiler manufacturer about their recommendation of CLEANING new Cast Irton boiler installations, and much to my suprise, they had none!

Any thoughts?

hot_rod

The best way

is to use a boiler specific cleaner. Rhomar has an excellent one. I believe RectorSeal (Stewart Hall) and many other plumbing "chemical" suppliers have them.

Many folks use plain old TSP, a strong soap really. I've used dishwasher detergent in the past, it doesn't foam up.

Just be sure you flush it well.

hot rod

GW

HR

what ratio do you go with? I've never used tsp.

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kevin coppinger_4

really Dawn...

how much in a 5 gallon bucket...that would be a lot cheaper than the rhomar....kpc

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hot_rod

TSP tips

www.pseg.com/customer/home/install/about/boiler.jsp

hr

hot_rod

Depends on how dirty

the system is, I suppose. Be sure it is automatic dishwasher soap, not dish detergent. The latter will suds like crazy.

Keep in mind the Rhomar cleaner contains about 30 ingredients. it's designed to be multi metal friendly, and safe for all the components in the system.

Always check the ph after you use a cleaner.

hr