A boiler can run without glycol; it will heat water and function normally. Boilers may run for years without glycol, chemicals, or other maintenance. However, a boiler that is never fed glycol will not have the same lifespan. After water, extreme cold, and years go by, maintenance issues will start to show. This is especially relevant in commercial or industrial boilers, where glycol is more important for maintenance.
Small apartments, residences, offices, and churches that have boiler systems often choose not to use glycol in their boilers. The benefits of not using glycol in a boiler for these types of buildings are saving on maintenance labor, water being a more efficient heat transfer conduit, and lower maintenance risks.
For some, it may be okay, especially if the water in the area is soft, the boiler and pipes are not in bad condition, and the climate is not one susceptible to freezing. If any one of these factors changes, it can lead to expensive repairs and replacements.
Boiler loops are at high-risk in outside areas, especially in colder environments. Loops filled with only water are significantly more vulnerable. Glycol can especially help if your loops are located in any of the following areas:
While smaller boiler operations, typically for residential or light commercial, may not elect to use chemicals, that will not be okay for medium-to-large-sized operations. Manufacturers, hospitals, breweries, large apartments, nursing homes, and schools should all have treatment chemicals. The usual boiler needs of a small home are not comparable to commercial or industrial boilers. Firstly, the price to install large boilers is very high, and you want to protect your valuable equipment. Secondly, the boiler requires a lot of energy costs for the gas to heat it, as well as the water usage required. Corrosion inhibitors, scale inhibitors, glycol, pH balances, antifoam agents, and neutralizing amines. These all manage the boiler’s water chemistry to reduce maintenance issues, lengthen the boiler’s lifespan, and improve efficiency.
Chardon Labs can test, feed, and monitor glycol and other chemicals in your boiler system. We can supply and operate the correct equipment to effectively chemically treat it. Protect your investment and remove headaches by reaching out to an expert at Chardon Labs here.
