How to properly prepare the system before filling it with new antifreeze? The role of flushing agents, inhibitors, and diagnostics
In the HVAC industry, there is increasing talk about a responsible approach to the operation of heating, cooling, and heat pump systems. One of the key, yet often overlooked, steps in proper maintenance is preparing the system before filling it with new antifreeze. This includes not only replacing the medium, but also thoroughly cleaning, securing, and diagnosing the system. Learn how to do it professionally β using Procold products and services.
1. Why is installation preparation so important?
A contaminated or corroded system is a direct route to:
- rapid degradation of new fluid,
- decreased system efficiency,
- leaks and sealing problems,
- increased energy consumption,
- costly pump and exchanger failures.
Therefore, before each replacement or first filling, the installation must be thoroughly cleaned and secured. This ensures that the operating parameters of the entire system are maintained for a long time.
2. Flushing the system β when and with what?
Rinses are the first step. Their purpose is to remove:
-
residues of previous fluid,
-
assembly contaminants (sawdust, oils, fluxes),
-
lime deposits, and rust.
Procold offers three specialized products:
π’ Factory Flushβ for systems with ethylene glycol and propylene glycol.
π‘ Supercool FlushΒ β dedicated to installations with potassium formate-based fluid (Supercool).
π΅ Aquacorr Cleanerβ intensive cleaning of the system from deposits, oxides, and “heating sludge.”
π‘ Tip: The contact time of the flush with the system depends on its type. Some agents can remain inside for up to 3 weeks (e.g., Factory Flush), while others must be removed after 1β2 days.
3. System protection β the role of corrosion inhibitors
After cleaning the system, it must be protected. Corrosion inhibitors not only protect metals, but also:
- improve thermal conductivity,
- reduce the accumulation of dirt,
- eliminate noise in pipelines,
- extend the service life of fittings.
π Procold’s offer includes:
-
Aquacorr SI β silicate concentrate for protection without cleaning (for old and new installations),
-
Aquacorr OAT β organic inhibitor with broad compatibility (including with drinking water).
By using antifreeze fluid, e.g., Factory GLY, Factory EKO, or Supercool, and protecting the system with Aquacorr, you can extend the service life of the system by up to several years.
4. Diagnostics β how to assess the condition of the installation
π pH, conductivity, alkaline reserve, presence of sediments β these are the basic data that the Procold laboratory can determine during sample analysis. Regular testing helps to avoid costly mistakes.
πΒ Optical refractometerβ checks the freezing point of the fluid and assesses its suitability.
π‘ ProLight D1018 detection lamp β allows you to detect leaks in the system using fluids with a detector (e.g., Factory GLY, Supercool, Factory EKO D).
5. What to do with used fluid?
Remember: do not mix old and new fluids β different chemical bases may react unpredictably.
π That is why Procold offers the following service:
- receipt,
-
transport,
-
and disposal of used fluids.
The relevant environmental documents are provided with the service.
6. The most common mistakes when changing fluid
π« Omitting flushing of the old installation
π« Use of incompatible inhibitors
π« No pH and conductivity diagnostics
π« Mixing fluids from different manufacturers
π« No micro-leak detection
By avoiding these mistakes and using proven Procold products, you can be sure that your installation will operate safely and reliably for a long time.
β Summary
Preparing the system before filling it with new fluid is a process, not just a service task. It requires knowledge, the right tools, and chemicals. With the help of Procold’s range of productsβfrom flushing agents and inhibitors to laboratory servicesβyou can be sure that your HVAC systems will operate efficiently and safely for many years to come.
π§ Recommended Procold products for preparing the installation:
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Flushing fluids: Factory Flush, Supercool Flush, Aquacorr Cleaner
-
Corrosion inhibitors: Aquacorr SI, Aquacorr OAT
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Diagnostics: Optical refractometer, ProLight D1018
-
Services: Procold laboratory, fluid disposal
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