New British Standard Recommendations Focus on Boiler Filters and System Maintenance
As of June 1st 2019, the British Standard BS 7593:2006 was fully replaced by BS 7593:2019, the code of practice for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic central heating and cooling water systems.
The new standard recommends best practice for preparing the primary circuit of wet central heating systems prior to initial commissioning or re-commissioning following major remedial work (e.g. boiler replacement) and the ongoing water treatment to ensure continued efficiency in operation.
Cleaning, Protection and Maintenance
BS 7593:2019 now contains significant changes on cleaning, protection and maintenance of heating and cooling systems. This will undoubtedly have a knock on effect on the way that heating engineers approach water treatment practices and in-line filters.
The key changes to the standard, with regard to those specifying, installing and maintaining domestic heating and cooling systems are as follows:
- An in-line filter should be fitted to protect system components
- A water test should be carried out every year to test the level of inhibitor and cleanliness of the system
- The three recommended cleaning methodologies are power flushing, mains pressure and gravity cleaning
- Inhibitor should be re-dosed at five-year intervals or a full system water test undertaken
- Biocide should be used in cooling and low temperature heating systems, and considered for higher temperature systems for added protection during downtime
Emphasis on Filters and Water Testing
Sales & Marketing Director Steve McAllorum said: “We are pleased that the new British Standard recommendations put more emphasis on the use of filters and water testing. It’s common for ongoing maintenance to be overlooked, resulting in poor quality water and eventual boiler failure. By following the new standards and taking a more holistic approach to the maintenance of heating systems, installer and homeowners alike can improve the life expectancy of boilers, as well as improving system efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.”
The British Standards Institution
With over 100 years of experience, the British Standards Institute is recognised as the UK’s National standards body. Their committees work with the manufacturing and service industries, government, businesses and consumers to facilitate the production of British, European and International standards. Find out more about BS 7593:2019 here: https://www.thenbs.com/PublicationIndex/documents/details?Pub=BSI&DocID=326212