Powerflushing is by far the quickest and most effective method of cleaning a new or existing heating system. Powerflushing at high temperatures and with the use of chemical cleaners ensures all corrosion, sludge, scale and installation debris are efficiently removed from the system in one visit. To achieve an effective, efficient and successful clean, here are a few pointers to ensure the best results.

• The System

Before powerflushing an existing system its age and condition must be properly assessed. Specific care must be taken with older systems which are showing evidence of corrosion or pin-holing as by removing the corrosion debris, leakage can be accelerated.

 

• Equipment

The equipment chosen when powerflushing is a key factor. The more powerful the pump, the higher the flow rate, which in turn increases the dump speed and reduces the time required on- site to complete the flush. The Fernox Powerflow Flushing Machine MKIII is fitted with an 1100 W pump which achieves a best -in -industry flow rate of 99 l/min and a dump rate of 60 l/min to complete the job quickly and effectively .Fully acid resistant and rated to 85°C, the Powerflow MKIII is able to flush at higher temperatures to reduce the cleaning time still further. For maximum powerflushing efficiency we recommend also using the Fernox Powerflushing Filter. Fitted with a powerful 11,000 Gauss magnet the filter removes and traps magnetite, rust and other magnetic material from the system water during the clean. Fully functional at maximum flow it ensures optimum debris extraction and, with a built-in bypass, the filter can be cleaned without interrupting the flushing process. What’s more it provides an impressive visual aid for the householder to see the level of contaminant being removed from the system.

• Connection

 
There are a number of ways to connect a powerflushing machine, but always remember not to connect across a radiator as this will reduce the flow rate and may affect the efficacy of the flush.

If the system is fitted with a Fernox Total Filter TF1 then by far the simplest and quickest method of connecting is via a Fernox TF1 Flushing Adapter. Designed with the same fixings the TF1 Adapter simply sits in its place and the hoses are connected directly onto the valves. Fully acid resistant and also rated to 85°C the TF1 Flushing Adapter provides full flow rate to optimise cleaning efficiency.

If a Total Filter TF1 is not fitted then it is advisable to fit one, not only to aid when powerflushing, but more importantly to provide on-going protection of the whole system longer term. Combining hydrocyclonic action with specially designed magnets the TF1 continually removes both magnetic and non- magnetic contaminants from the water to maintain system performance.

Alternatively, the powerflushing machine can be fitted across the pump with the aid of a Fernox Powerflow Pump Head Adapter. 

 

• Chemical Additives

 
The correct choice of chemical cleaner plays an important role in the effectiveness of the clean. Fernox Cleaner F3 is designed for use on new and existing systems while for heavily contaminated systems the use of Fernox Powerflushing Cleaner F5 is recommended. For systems suffering from severe limescale build-up Fernox DS-40 System Cleaner should be used.

Don’t forget that once the system has been cleaned and refilled an inhibitor such as Fernox Protector F1 must be added for long term system protection. To make additional fuel savings the Fernox Energy Saver F6 works in combination with the Protector F1 to improve system efficiency.
 

• Procedure

Powerflushing takes time to be carried out properly so to take a thorough and methodical approach. Flushing can be divided into three key phases::

• Washing with chemical cleaners
• Rinsing with clean water
• Refilling with clean water

 

It may be necessary to repeat these steps until the water runs clear. When possible the chemical cleaner should be circulated in hot system water as this speeds up the cleaning process.

When cleaning the system always start with the radiator furthest away from the Powerflushing machine. Remember to close the flow and return on all the other radiators and reverse the flow regularly to ensure the removal of all debris. When purging the system of dirty water always start with the last radiator to be cleaned and flush in reverse order.
 

• Testing

 

Once the waste water is running clear, the water must be checked using a Fernox Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) meter followed by a Fernox Water Test Kit to confirm it is cleaned effectively. The TDS of the waste water should always be within 10% tolerance of the mains water. Chloride and copper tests will provide further proof that no debris is left in the system. Undertaking both procedures provides irrefutable scientific evidence to the householder that the work has been completed correctly.