How to descale a boiler: tricks and tips

Is scale building up inside your boiler? Find out how to descale it quickly and easily.

 

Is scale building up inside your boiler? Find out how you can descale a boiler.

Boiler longevity and efficiency depend on several factors. The most damaging? Limescale.

Limescale, in fact, is a mineral deposit that forms when water, containing high levels of calcium and magnesium, is deposited on surfaces or inside boilers and water heaters. 

The amount of calcium and magnesium in water makes it "hard". A natural condition that depends on the geographic area in which one lives, can worsen if the water distribution system is old or if there are corroded pipes that could possibly release rust and other materials in the water stream. This same rust which could be from the old pipe could clog the plate exchanger in mixed boilers. 

These deposits can put a strain on the operation of the hot water distribution system, which can have a major impact on operating costs. To limit these costs and extend the longevity of your technology, it is important to descale your boiler. 

Scale buildup inside the boiler: how to prevent it

Regular cleaning of the boiler is essential to prevent the formation of scale deposits and to prolong the life of its functioning over time.

In fact, the possible presence of limescale in the boiler can result, as we have seen, in the efficiency of the hot water system.

There are several methods to combat limescale in the boiler and prevent its formation. Here are some suggestions:

• Install a water softener: A water softener can reduce calcium and magnesium levels in the water before it enters the boiler. In this way, the formation of scale deposits can be reduced.

• Use anti-scaling products: there are products that can be added to boiler water to prevent scale deposits from forming. These products are generally based on citric acid or sulfuric acid.

• Perform regular boiler cleaning: regular, sometimes annual, boiler cleaning can remove scale deposits that have already formed and prevent further accumulation in the plate exchanger in mixed boilers.

• Install a filter: a filter can help capture scale particles in the water before they enter the boiler.

• Monitor the "hardness" level of the water: if you know the hardness level of your water, you can take specific preventive measures to combat the formation of scale deposits. There are water hardness test kits that can be used to measure calcium and magnesium levels in the water.

In any case, it is always important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for boiler maintenance and to consult a trained technician in case of problems or concerns.

Descale the boiler: a quick guide

In the event that limescale has already accumulated inside the boiler, prompt action should be taken in order to reduce as much as possible the consequences that could follow.

Cleaning the boiler of limescale can be an important operation to maintain the efficiency and durability of the heating system. Here are some steps to follow to clean a boiler from limescale, performing the so-called “chemical washing” with special products:

• Shut off the boiler and allow it to cool completely before cleaning. To make sure it is off, attempt to open the faucets and check that no water is coming out.

• Turn the system back on, following the timings given for the solution used.

• Open the hot water taps periodically (about every 15 minutes).

• Rinse the boiler with cold water and perform a system reset.

During all descaling operations, it is necessary to keep a large receptacle under the boiler, which can collect water leaks.

In the case of old boilers that are not equipped with a descaling filter, it is necessary to clean them periodically.

It is important to emphasize that with the right precautions, it is possible to avoid limescale buildup inside the boiler. If, however, the need to descale the boiler should occur, it is still a delicate and complex operation, which varies depending on the type of boiler installed. 

Therefore, in case of doubts or difficulties, it is always advisable to contact a specialized technician who can take care of boiler maintenance service.