How, why and which inhibitor should I add to my central heating system
Heating systems are an integral part of any home or commercial building, providing warmth and comfort during the colder months of the year. However, over time, heating systems can become prone to issues such as corrosion, which can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy costs, and even system failure. To combat these issues, many heating system owners choose to add an inhibitor to their system. In this blog, we will discuss why and how inhibitors work, as well as which inhibitor you should choose for your heating system.
How?
Firstly, we will show you how to put the inhibitor into the system:
- Turn off the heating system and allow it to cool down completely before beginning any work.
- Locate the filling loop or filling point on your heating system. This is usually located near the boiler and will be a valve or tap that allows you to add water to the system.
- Connect a hose to the filling loop or point and run the hose outside or to a drain.
- Open the filling loop or point and allow some water to drain out to ensure that there is enough space in the system for the inhibitor.
- Add the inhibitor to the system using a funnel or pump, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended dosage.
- Close the filling loop or point and remove the hose.
- Turn on the heating system and allow it to run for a short period to circulate the inhibitor throughout the system.
- Check the system pressure and top up with water if necessary.
It is important to note that the specific steps may vary depending on the type of heating system and the inhibitor being used. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and follow proper safety precautions when adding an inhibitor to your heating system.
Why?
Adding an inhibitor to your heating system is an important step in ensuring that your system remains efficient, reliable, and cost-effective. Over time, heating systems can become prone to issues such as corrosion, sludge build-up, and limescale deposits, which can reduce efficiency and lead to increased energy costs. By adding an inhibitor, you can prevent these issues and extend the lifespan of your system.
The following are some key points explaining why you should add an inhibitor to your heating system:
Prevents corrosion:
One of the main reasons to add an inhibitor to your heating system is to prevent corrosion. Corrosion can occur due to the reaction between the metal components of the system and the water and oxygen in the heating system. Over time, this can cause damage to the system, reducing its lifespan and efficiency. An inhibitor works by forming a protective layer on the internal surfaces of the system, which prevents metal corrosion and the build-up of deposits that can reduce system efficiency.
Reduces sludge build-up:
Sludge build-up is another common issue that can affect heating systems. Sludge can form due to the reaction between the water and the metal components of the system and can cause a range of issues such as reduced heat output, increased energy costs, and system failure. Inhibitors can prevent the build-up of sludge by neutralizing the acids and alkalis in the system and preventing the formation of deposits.
Prevents limescale deposits:
Limescale deposits can also be a problem for heating systems, particularly those that use hard water. Limescale can build up on the internal surfaces of the system, reducing efficiency and causing blockages. Inhibitors can help to prevent the formation of limescale by binding with the minerals in the water and preventing them from adhering to the system surfaces.
Improves efficiency:
By preventing corrosion, sludge build-up, and limescale deposits, an inhibitor can help to improve the efficiency of your heating system. A more efficient system will use less energy, saving you money on your energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint.
Which?
When it comes to choosing the right inhibitor for your heating system, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the hardness of the water in your area. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause limescale build-up in your heating system over time. If you live in an area with hard water, a polymer-based inhibitor is likely the best choice for your system. These inhibitors contain polymers that help to prevent limescale build-up and protect against corrosion.
If you live in an area with soft water, an organophosphate-based inhibitor may be a good choice. These inhibitors are typically less expensive than polymer-based inhibitors and are effective at protecting against corrosion. However, they may not be as effective at preventing limescale build-up, so it’s important to consider the specific needs of your system there are many areas in the UK with hard water due to the natural geology of the region.
Some of the areas with the hardest water in the UK include:
- London and the Southeast – These areas have some of the hardest water in the UK, with water hardness levels ranging from 200 to 400 ppm (parts per million).
- The Midlands – Water hardness in this region varies depending on location, but levels can be as high as 300 ppm.
- Yorkshire and Humberside – This region has some areas with very hard water, particularly in the eastern part of the region, with levels ranging from 200 to 350 ppm.
- Northwest England – Some areas of this region, particularly around Manchester and Liverpool, have hard water with levels ranging from 200 to 300 ppm.
- Scotland – Water hardness in Scotland varies depending on location, but some areas, particularly in the east, have hard water with levels ranging from 100 to 250 ppm.
- Wales – Water hardness in Wales varies depending on location, but some areas, particularly in the south, have hard water with levels ranging from 100 to 200 ppm. when choosing an inhibitor.
It’s important to note that water hardness levels can vary even within a specific region, and that water hardness may change over time due to changes in the source or treatment of the water supply. If you’re unsure about the hardness of the water in your area, you can contact your local water supplier for more information.
Another factor to consider when choosing an inhibitor is the age and condition of your heating system. If your system is old or in poor condition, a polymer-based inhibitor may be more effective at protecting against corrosion and prolonging the lifespan of your system.
It’s also important to consider the materials used in your heating system when choosing an inhibitor. For example, if your system contains aluminium components, it’s important to choose an inhibitor that is specifically designed to protect against corrosion in aluminium systems.
Some of the brands that you can buy:
- Sentinel
- Fernox
- Flomasta
- Corgi
- Adey
- And More
Unfortunately for every pro, there is a con while adding add inhibitor to your heating system can provide numerous benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. These include:
- Cost: Inhibitors can be expensive, particularly if you need to use a large amount to adequately protect your heating system. However, the cost of an inhibitor is typically much less than the cost of repairing or replacing a damaged heating system.
- Compatibility issues: Not all inhibitors are compatible with all types of heating systems or materials, so it’s important to choose an inhibitor that is specifically designed for your system.
- Risk of overuse: Using too much inhibitor can lead to problems such as foaming or reduced heat transfer efficiency. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the recommended amount.
- Health and safety concerns: Some inhibitors contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. It’s important to follow proper safety protocols when handling inhibitors and to store them safely out of reach of children and pets.
- Environmental concerns: Some inhibitors contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment if they are not disposed of properly. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disposal and to use environmentally friendly inhibitors when possible.
Ultimately, the choice of inhibitor will depend on the specific needs of your heating system. It’s important to choose an inhibitor that is compatible with your system and that provides the level of protection needed to prevent issues such as corrosion and limescale build-up. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when adding an inhibitor to your system, and always exercise caution and follow proper safety protocols to ensure the best results.
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