Closed System Flushing & Chemical Cleaning

What is Closed System Flushing?

Closed-system flushing of hot water and chilled water systems is a vital step in the installation and commissioning process of these systems.

It is necessary to ensure that the systems are clean, efficient, and free of any contaminants that could potentially damage the system or compromise the quality of the hot water or chilled water being provided.

Here are several reasons why
closed-system flushing is important:

Removing Contaminants

During the construction process, it is common for debris and contaminants to find their way into the hot water and chilled water systems. This could include dust, dirt, sand, and even small tools or materials that were left behind. If these contaminants are not removed, they can clog up the system and reduce its efficiency. Pre-commission cleaning helps to remove these contaminants and ensure that the system is clean and ready for operation.

Improving system efficiency

When a hot water or chilled water system is clogged with contaminants, it has to work harder to provide the desired level of hot water or chilled water. This can result in higher energy costs and a shorter lifespan for the system. Closed system flushing helps to improve the efficiency of the system by removing any obstructions that could hinder its performance.

Quality of hot or chilled water

Contaminants in the system can also affect the quality of the hot water or chilled water being provided. For example, if a chilled water system is contaminated with dirt or debris, it can cause the water to become dirty and potentially lead to the growth of bacteria or other microorganisms. This can compromise the quality of the chilled water being provided and potentially pose a health risk. Closed system flushing helps to ensure that the hot water or chilled water being provided is of the highest quality.

Protecting the system from damage

Contaminants in the system can also cause physical damage to the system. For example, dirt and debris can wear down pumps and other mechanical components, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Pre-commission cleaning helps to protect the system from this type of damage.

Closed System Flushing &
Cleaning Methods

There are several methods that can be used for closed-system flushing of hot water and chilled water systems. Some common methods include:

Chemical cleaning

This method involves using chemicals to dissolve and remove contaminants from the system. The chemicals used in this process are typically biodegradable and safe for the environment.

Mechanical cleaning

This method involves using automated means, such as brushes or scouring pads, to remove contaminants from the system physically.

High-pressure water jetting

This method involves using a high-pressure water jet to blast away contaminants from the system

Types Of Chemicals Required For Closed System Flushing

There are several types of chemicals that can be used during the pre-commission cleaning of heating and chilled water systems.

The specific type of chemical that is used will depend on the type of contaminants present in the system and the desired cleaning method. Some common chemicals used for pre-commission cleaning include:

  • Alkaline cleaners: These are strong basic cleaners that are effective at removing grease, oil, and other organic contaminants from the system. They can be used to clean the inside of pipes, boilers, and heat exchangers.
  • Acid cleaners: These are strong acidic cleaners that are effective at removing scale, rust, and other inorganic contaminants from the system. They can be used to clean the inside of pipes, boilers, and heat exchangers.
  • Solvent cleaners: These are chemical cleaners that are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including grease, oil, dirt, and wax. They can be used to clean the exterior of pipes, boilers, and heat exchangers.
  • Biodegradable cleaners: These are environmentally friendly cleaners that are made from natural ingredients and are safe for use in heating and chilled water systems. They are effective at removing a wide range of contaminants and are less harmful to the environment than traditional chemical cleaners.

Additional Guidance

Regardless of the method used, it is important to follow proper safety protocols when performing pre-commission cleaning. This will include wearing personel protective equipment (PPE), following proper handling and disposal procedures for chemicals, and ensuring that the system is properly purged and drained before beginning work.

In addition to pre-commission cleaning, it is also important to flush the hot water and chilled water systems prior to commissioning. This process involves running clean water through the system to remove any remaining contaminants and ensure that the system is fully operational.

Overall, pre-commission cleaning and flushing of hot water and chilled water systems is a crucial step in the installation and commissioning process. It helps to ensure that the systems are clean, efficient, and free of contaminants that could potentially damage the system or compromise the quality of the hot water or chilled water being provided. By following proper safety protocols and using the appropriate cleaning and flushing methods, you can help to protect your hot water and chilled water systems and ensure their optimal performance for years to come.

Echo Square Services are able to help you with all your pre-commission cleaning and flushing requirements, should you require any further assistance please don’t hesitate to contact our team by calling 0800 772 0628, or contact us here.

Who We've Worked With

James Eckloff
James Eckloff
2021-08-02
We used Echo Square services to reline a water tank in a local school recently, fantastic work and completed within the timescales needed
Gaetano milazzo
Gaetano milazzo
2021-01-25
Had a cold water tank in the loft full of dust, wasp and flies. Tanks were cleaned to a very good standard, considering the awkwardness of the job. Very happy with the service
Stuart Mills
Stuart Mills
2020-08-17
We were carrying out plumbing works on a site in London where we discovered a badly leaking GRP water tank, the Echo Square Services team attended site as quickly as possible to repair the leak and reline the tank. We will definitely contact them next time we are faced with a similar issue - would highly recommend.
Daniel Sheen
Daniel Sheen
2020-07-17
We had a heavily leaking metal water tank above our office which was leaking through our ceiling, Echo Square Services repaired the leak and relined the tank just two days after we made the enquiry!
Harold Carter
Harold Carter
2020-07-01
Arrived very quickly when the crisis developed in the 100-year-old water tanks in this Grade 1 listed building; did what looks a highly professional job (re-lining two hard to get at tanks in the roof) all in one day - which involved working really late - and were careful to make no mess and cause no damage. So far, it looks a great job at a reasonable cost.
Stuart Mills
Stuart Mills
2019-09-09
I have used Nationwide Tank Relining on two occasions now and each time I have been absolutely delighted with their service, ‘can do’ attitude and professionalism from start to finish. I will definitely be requesting their services again in the future.
Luke Busby
Luke Busby
2019-09-09
Working with James was a pleasure, thanks again bud will be in touch for my next project
J H
J H
2019-09-09
I contacted ECHOSquare to reline our water tank due to it being damaged and developing a leak, we needed the job doing ASAP as our site had no water so staff had to be sent home until it was fixed, James understood how urgent the job was and he was i spoke with him on the Friday and he was able to get the job booked in for the Monday, all The necessary Paper work, IE Rams & Training Certificates were sent to me via email before the guys got to site, from start to finish the service was excellent, Thanks ECHOSquare.
Dark Iron Fabrications
Dark Iron Fabrications
2019-09-08
The team was very helpful, polite and knowledgeable. Glad to speak to people who know what they're doing. Won't hesitate to use them again in the future
Rachel Pickett
Rachel Pickett
2019-02-26
Having used other companies in the past I can wholeheartedly say that our dealings with Nationwide Tank Relining have been a breath of fresh air. We have had tanks relined, water hygiene assessments and floor coatings. All work was carried out in a timely manner and the quality of work has each and every time been exemplary. My bosses are thrilled with my decision to switch to Nationwide Tank Relining and a tank that was relined 10 years ago by them still looks good as new internally, and the money we've saved from choosing the right supplier has proven to be a very smart business move. Highly recommended!

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The quality of our product combined with our skilled team of applicators means we can offer a comprehensive guarantee of up to 15 years (10 year minimum guarantee).

You can rest assured that Echo Square will provide the very best service from start to finish and emergency backup should you ever need it.

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