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The quality of heating water is crucial for the efficiency and longevity of the heating system. Heating water can contain particles of corrosion, limescale, sludge, and microorganisms that create biofilm. All these types of contamination pose a risk of reducing heating performance and degrading the system. Find out how filters and drain valves can make the maintenance of your heating system and water distribution easier.
Due to various types of contamination, clogging and subsequent blockage, damage, and reduced lifespan of individual system components can occur. A clogged system also transfers heat less effectively, so you will need to unnecessarily increase the heating output, yet you will not achieve the desired thermal comfort. Pumps and boilers can be completely destroyed by mechanical impurities. All this leads to significantly increased costs for operation, maintenance, and repairs.
Paradoxically, these problems threaten modern low-temperature systems more – especially the combination of a heat pump and underfloor heating, as the low temperature of the heating water is more susceptible to microorganism growth. Modern heating systems also have more components with moving parts, which are more sensitive to contamination.
To prevent the aforementioned problems, before filling the system, measure the parameters of the heating water, such as pH, hardness, and contamination. Add protective agents against corrosion and biocidal preparations against bacteria to the water as needed (in the case of underfloor heating). Repeat the measurements regularly at least once a year and based on the results, add protective agents to the system.
An integral part of protecting the heating system is water filtration. Even properly treated heating water comes into contact with various surfaces, which can result in the release of small particles and the formation of sludge. Filters remove these mechanical impurities, which can damage individual system components. A magnetic filter for heating captures metal particles and sludge, while a mechanical water filter with a sieve captures non-magnetic ones, such as limescale.
Measure the parameters of the heating water before filling the system
Not just any water filter can be used for heating systems. Water filters are designed for protecting drinking and utility water distribution. A fine sieve captures all solid particles, such as sand, rust, and other impurities. They are installed either on the water supply or on a specific tap.
Heating filters serve as protection for heating systems and boilers, where metal particles pose the greatest risk. Therefore, they usually combine mechanical and magnetic filtration. They are installed on the return pipe before the boiler or on the main branches of the system. Heating filters thus have a different function, different construction solutions, and different temperature ranges than filters for drinking water.
Water and heating filters need to be cleaned regularly, meaning removing trapped impurities. If you do not clean the filter cartridges, the filters could become clogged. This limits their permeability, and the filters can become completely blocked – thus restricting the flow of water through the pipes. A clogged magnetic filter also cannot capture further magnetic impurities, which then continue to circulate in the system.
Filters can be cleaned either manually or using drain valves. In the case of manual cleaning, it is necessary to shut off the water supply, disassemble the filter, and clean the filter cartridge under running water. A magnetic filter with a magnet inside the container is cleaned by wiping the magnet, while a filter with a magnet outside the container is cleaned by simply removing the magnet, allowing impurities to be released into the water in the tank. The water is then drained from the tank.
Drain valves are used to flush out trapped impurities from the system without the need to disassemble the filter. Simply open the valve and let the trapped impurities flow out with the water into a prepared bucket. Some filters also allow for completely automatic cleaning, known as backwashing, where no water from the system is lost, but it drains into the waste. With some filters, you can even set regular cleaning intervals, so you don't have to think about filter maintenance at all. A plumber can advise you on setting the appropriate interval based on the level of contamination and system load.
The drain valve must be compatible with your filter. Focus on the type and size of the connection, manufacturing materials, and the possibility of automatic control if desired. It is also important to consider whether the valve is intended for a drinking water distribution system – in which case it must have the appropriate certifications.
In our offer, you will find branded ball drain valves for Honeywell water filtration and, of course, top-quality water filters and heating filters. We are happy to provide expert advice to help you choose the ideal solution for your needs.
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