How to properly skim a new steam boiler.

PhilDavid

Over 12 years I've worked for 3 company's. The method for skimming a new steam boiler pretty much has been the same. Dump a can of Squick in the boiler, wait a day (or even weeks with one company) and go back and skim. Just keep on skimming until that water is clear and priming is gone. This was how I was taught and is how many are taught in eastern MA as well. I reached out to the maker of Squick, Silverking, and this is the response I got.

Q. Hi, I'm a heating contractor and wanted first hand info on how long to leave Squick in a steam boiler before skimming. Some guys will add Squick and leave it in for weeks before skimming. Some will add the Squick, grab lunch, and go back and skim. What is the appropriate duration of leaving Squick in a new steam boiler? And is it the same for treating an old boiler?

A. Dear Phil, I do not recommend surface skimming ,you will skim off the Squick. Instead draw water from the bottom drain until soft sludge is removed. usually 2-3 days unless it is a new boiler, then 1 day or less. Thank you

So are the pros out there just skimming off the oil initially with no treatments or additives, then adding Squick, and then going back later to drain the boiler as per recommended? I'm really psyched to know what other guys are doing!!

Dave0176

Usually about an hour of running after starting a newly installed boiler I skim it until it's seems clear. Then I'll go back and wand wash the boiler out for a good while until the water is crystal clear coming out. Additional water line skimming if needed. I don't use chemicals, except for maybe a tablet of steam master.

Dave0176

Here is how I wash it using a home made wand.

http://youtu.be/PX1awDwr578

Jack M

This guy seems to know what he's doing..
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Jj7tPlqSVfs

Gerry Gill...
https://youtube.com/watch?v=q1tw9rz-pUk

180 degree skim..
https://youtube.com/watch?v=fnltYUBDXRM

Big Ed_4

First I try to avoid as mush as possible not to add oil. I never use Squick ...Down the road if there are any problems, I open the skim port and trickle out the water until the water looks clean ...Thank you boiler manufactures by adding large skim ports ..