When to Skim Burnham Boiler for a Steam System

Julian Ku

We installed a new Burnham Oil-fired Boiler in our home, which has a pretty venerable steam heating system. We had lots of problems during the first winter, but after lots of help from folks on this wall, we managed to solve most of them during this heating season. Still, I do have a question about off-season maintenance.



As we have noticed, the water in the boiler is getting pretty dirty, even after we flush the boiler weekly. In the past, we have had the boiler's water "skimmed" and treated with KEK. Do you think this is worth doing before the end of the heating season or whether we should wait until next fall?



Many thanks in advance for advice folks might have.

nicholas bonham-carter

off season maintainance

there is always some rusty water washing down from the pipes into the boiler's gauge-glass. since it is recommended to boil any fresh water added to the boiler shortly after it has been added, you should wait to drain any chemicals out, until the onset of heating season. i believe that using only water in the boiler is better, unless there is some clear chemistry related problem with the local water, such as excessive chlorides. then use some form of purification.

do any skimming yourself, and add no chemicals, unless suggested by the boiler mfg. [usually washing soda].--nbc