Flow/check valves

Ron Schroeder_3

Hi Mike,

Yes, a system should be flushed when first installed but after that, any new water added puts in new contaminants. Many of the old guys consider black water to be good. The black is from the iron reacting with the disolved oxygen in the water. Once all of the oxygen has reacted with the iron, the water is no longer reactive and it actually protects the components of the system. New water, since it is low in iron and copper, will leach those metals out of the system components and the oxygen in the new water will start corrosion again. That's also why even a small leak will distroy a system from the inside out because of the constant replacement water.

Ron

Sweet_3

Are weighted seat flow checks

or spring loaded check valves better for prevention of gravity circulation. Thanks

Big Ed

Better

A weighted flow check would last longer.Depending on the springs tension both will work. I perfer flow valves..

Empire_2

Same here

Flow/Check are usually dependable. Make sure you clean or flush your system preiodically.

Ron Schroeder_3

Hi Mike,

I'm not sure that periodic flushing is a good idea. Every time that you put new water into the heating system, you introduce more oxygen, leading to more corrosion.

Ron

Empire_2

Hi Ron

I replied to your E-Mail. I can almost bet that the boiler has contaminents in it now so I would flush it. Not every 2-3 years, but maybe 5 years. all depends on the condition of the water. I am just trying to avoid check failure due to crap in the system. Funny thing,...Most newer systems that I service that were not installen by me are NEVER flushed and what I find is Black water from flux, dirt, etc. That's why I take a look and than decide if it needs to be done. Air vents are a must when trying to eliminate entrained air...