How to do proper maintenance
of radiant systems

Water circulating in the radiant system

The water that circulates in traditional heating systems and radiant systems is rarely replaced, so generally the water flowing through the system is many years old.

If this water has not been treated, it will cause problems in the heating system.

Microbial flora is a constant presence in drinking water. In fact, despite the fact that drinking water is treated, it can still carry micro-organisms that are part of the normal natural environmental flora. Therefore, micro-organisms are present even in the absence of any type of contamination.

The problems with radiant panel systems

In traditional systems the major problems that occur are the formation of corrosion deposits (sludge and metal oxides) and calcareous deposits.

In radiant systems that operate with water circulating at lower temperatures of 33 ° – 38 ° C a further harmful phenomenon can occur: bacterial growth. Bacterial growth is only present in lower temperature systems and is not found in traditional heating systems.

Main conditions for bacterial growth in a low temperature radiant system

• Temperature: between 20 and 40 ° C the growth is exponential
• Still water: if the water flow is restricted the growth rate increases
• Release of metal oxides

The Biofilm: meaning and problems it causes

When a certain concentration of bacteria is reached inside the heating system, a dense slime is formed and adheres to any material, this is called biofilm. The biofilm allows the microorganisms to survive and under these favourable conditions, to multiply. It is rich in nutrients and has a protective effect on microorganisms.

Over time these viscous deposits prevent water from circulating efficiently, causing uneven heating. The result is a gradual increase in energy consumption and in the worst cases it can cause the premature failure of the equipment.

How to prevent problems in radiant systems

Manta Ecologica has created a chemical powder product called BP 700 Hygienizer. This product used with restoring pumps softens and detaches the biofilm, bringing it into solution and removing it.

Suitable for all radiant systems, including those containing aluminium components, the BP 700 Powder eliminates the biofilm from the system and guarantees maximum efficiency with minimum fuel consumption.

BP 700 Powder - Benefits

Specific for low temperature heating systems
Eliminates clogging
Prevents bad smells
Practical powder format
The product does not cause corrosion, its formulation has a low environmental impact
The product is packaged in sealed tubes to facilitate easy transport and storage

HOW TO USE THE BP 700 POWDER

The BP 700 Powder should be circulated around the radiant system using a HYPERFLUSH 36 or TRANSFORMER restoring pump.
The choice of the pump depends on the volume of water inside the system.

Important steps for the correct use of the product

The first operation to be carried out, after the hydraulic and electrical connections have been made, is a prewash of the whole system using water only and reversing the water flow frequently.
The contents of the tube are dissolved in 500 ml of water at 30 °c. A 100 gr tube is able to treat 100 litres of water contained in the radiant system.
Pour the prepared solution into the tank of the pump. Let it circulate in the system for a couple of hours, reversing the flow frequently.
At the end of the washing process, drain and rinse the system ensuring the reverse flow is used. Continue to do this until the drained water is clear.
Once the system has been rinsed, fill with new, clean water and add the corrosion inhibitor BP 700 A which prevents the formation of bacteria and biofilm. Both these steps are mandatory according to current regulations.

When washing of the radiant system is necessary

The washing of a traditional heating systems or low temperature systems is necessary under current regulations, if the pipework is replaced / reconfigured or the boiler is replaced. It is also necessary to carry out washing of the system if there are cold spots in the system, circulation problems or the water inside is dirty.

This system maintenance is essential to ensure longevity of the system and that it continues to function correctly. The cost of the washing of the system professionally is far outweighed by the energy savings that are made.