Cleaning plugged Buderus GB142 HX

Dobber

I just had to replace a hx on an 8 yr old GB142. It was on LP and even though it was serviced regularly the inner fins (which are difficult to see) were completely plugged off. Does anyone know of a cleaner/ acid that will attack the blockage but leave the aluminum alone?

Thanks

Robert O'Brien

Buderus recommends mineral oil in a 80/20 mixture.

Dobber

That has already been attempted.Several times. I'm looking to take it to the next level.This will not be done on an installed unit.
Thanks

Robert O'Brien

Kind of figured that,but it's all I got! Call Buderus

Bob Bona_4

I've found the mineral oil treatment ineffective, at least on LP. It's been the old fashioned brush and flush. The GB HXers have rough fin castings which add to the fun.

Bob Bona_4

Be sure to get at least the belly pan gasket, if not the upper cover gasket too, and a new flame rod/ignitor/gaskets.

Ironman

What's "plugging" it? It sounds like you may have a combustion issue. Mineral oil has always worked for me and I've got quite a few out there that I've installed. The only thing stronger that I can think of is ice machine cleaner, but that would need to be circulated over it to be effective. I would check with Buderus tech support before doing it.

kcopp

If the HX is that bad that you were thinking of having to swap it out I would try aluminum wheel cleaner. What have you to lose.

Dobber

I've got quite a few out there too. I was a big fan.Unfortunately Buderus is changing their tune from when I started installing them. They are now saying that with LP that you should be servicing them TWICE A YEAR OR MORE if needed. How are you supposed to sell a product with those requirements? My biggest fear is that this is just the beginning.
So basically I've got a hx to experiment with. Mineral oil isn't going to cut it. Bin' there dun that. I want to fill the hx with something to eat this crap out so when this happens again I can save the hx or swap it out with the one I have.
I like the idea of the wheel cleaner is a good one kc.

Thanks for the suggestions.

Bob Bona_4

I like the wheel cleaner idea. However, LP ones I've done don't have dust, they have white lava rock deposits. Not a fan.

Dobber

I like the lava rock description. Very appropriate.

Lance

Sometimes the engineers get it wrong, or sales outsells a product. Not all products are good for all applications. Wise is the man who can get right the first time. I just wish it was not so darn hard to figure it out! Sometimes I have to walk to another manufacturer. My principle is if it won't last with minimal or specialized maintenance it won't last. People, especially building owners are always in control and are not always the best to be in control. Its bad enough I need a rocket scientist and instruments to light a fire under a pot of water. Go figure.

HEATON

Have experience with the severe accumulation (on the combustion side) . The gasses and condensate are acidic so the attac on the HX is bad engineering. If u check the manual , u will find the instruction of maintenance is cleaning annually and replacing gaskets. This is expensive for the homeowner , the last set I bought was 160.00 dealer cost. With todays service rates and lagit markup its : the high eff. giveth and maintenance taketh away . Use CLR and brushes and source the gaskets on line. The igniter assy is also good to have as as a spare ,for its specific to that boiler ,and not usuall found on supply house shelf, when your down,in the winter. Iv stopped selling alum. HX boilers.

Captain

Cleaner for aluminum heat exchangers.

http://axiomind.sasktelwebhosting.com/boiler-cleaner.php