Clogged Heat Exchanger

lisa0163

I’m looking for some help out there on ways to unclog the heat exchanger on a Quantum 90 finance by Dunkirk. The HVAC tech has tried washing it several times but no luck. Supply company has suggested using food grade mineral oil while washing. The thought is the oil will bind to the aluminum and flush easier.

pecmsg

so much depends on what’s plugging up the heat exchanger.

before using any chemicals check with the manufacturer.
It may just be worthwhile changing it and getting a good filter system installed

EdTheHeaterMan

What side of the heat exchanger is plugged? The flue gas side or the water side?

lisa0163

I believe it’s the exhaust side (if that makes sense). The tech said it’s at the bottom near the exhaust

lisa0163

for whatever reason it’s questionable if the exchanger is even replaceable. Which would mean a new furnace.

EdTheHeaterMan

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1837565#Comment_1837565

Then @pecmsg's advise is not for you. He was referring to the water side as far as adding chemicals.

Let me read the manual to see if there is a maintenance procedure that will work for you.

EdTheHeaterMan

It appears that the manufacturer does not have any provisions for the kind of build up of debris outside of washing with water and vacuum cleaning or air pressure cleaning. With that said, I would check with the manufacturer about using mineral oil to break up the debris. WD-40 may be a good cleaning agent for your situation, But again, I would check with the manufacturer on that also.

mattmia2

Is the secondary hx stainless? If it doesn't have any aluminum in it a radiator shop could probably boil it out in their tank.

hot_rod

I think you are talking about the outside, fire side of the aluminum boiler block?

Axiom has combustion side cleaners for both aluminum and stainless boilers.

As well as cleaners for the inside of stainless and aluminum boilers.

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