Is it a bad idea to use galvanized pipe and fittings in a closed-loop 100% water hydronic system?

EPMountainMan

I stumbled into a bunch of galvanized fittings and pipe from an auction. Even some large 2" diameter ones to potentially make-up a "short and fat" header for a 3-pipe buffer tank setup for my heat pump hydronic system.

I've read how black iron should be used instead of gavanized, but how much am I really risking in future issues with my non-glycol, naturally soft water (I'm in the moutains of Colorado, so it's all snowmelt) in my hydronic system?

Jamie Hall

It has been my experience that galvanized steel piping corrodes (rusts) incredibly fast. Black iron doesn't.

hot_rod

my understanding is the concept of dissimilar metals copper and zinc, with an electrolyte can cause corrosion

In an open loop system you need a dielectric union or nipple between the two different metals

You could use a brass nipple between the copper to galvanized connection

Galvanized into the tank Is not an issue , if you use brass iso flanges on the pumps you are covered

EPMountainMan

Thanks, guys!