Do I Need to Clean the Tubes On Water Tube Boiler?
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I have an old water tube boiler with access plugs that are threaded . Is it important to clean the tubes ? And if so how often ?
This def. looks like a PITA job.
Thanks Dave
This def. looks like a PITA job.
Thanks Dave
Last edited by Richard S. on Mon. Dec. 04, 2017 9:24 am, edited 2 times in total.
Reason: Changed title, please use descriptive titles. Thanks
Reason: Changed title, please use descriptive titles. Thanks
- coaledsweat
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Pics would help. I would pull one plug to examine it before attempting. Typically, fire tube boilers tubes need cleaning yearly because they accumulate combustion byproducts but I have no experience with the water tube design. If scale is a problem it will not be easy to clean. Are the tubes vertical and if so straight or do they have bends?
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Yup, Looking at the boiler, the tubes lay horizontal with a 10 deg. pitch. I can rod them out, but is it really even worth the hassle ?
The only reason I ask is, The boiler is set up to do the cleaning , but is that a issue in a water tube construction ?
Dave
- franpipeman
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If you don't have to add feed water but are operating on returned condensate only that is a good sign to not clean. but if you are adding fresh make up water often you may want to investigate cleaning.
- coaledsweat
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Good luck cleaning scale with a brush. I believe you'll need a rotary hammer to remove it.
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You can purchase boiler tube brushes, rods and tube scrapers directly from Mcmaster Carr if you need them.
- StokerDon
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Dave, Is this a steam boiler???
If it's a closed hydronic system, it's probably not necessary.
-Don
If it's a closed hydronic system, it's probably not necessary.
-Don
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Its a closed hydronic system. So my guess is the plugs are for re-tubing , or if a steam system , cleaning . ???????????
Idk , but if you guys say forget about it, then ill move on to better fish to fry .
Thanks ! Dave
- coaledsweat
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Scale would be an issue in a steam boiler as it is constantly taking on water. I doubt the issue would be in a hot water boiler.