Why can’t corrosion inhibitors be added to contaminated HVAC systems?
We often encounter questions from customers who wonder whether corrosion inhibitors can be added to HVAC systems that have been operating for many years without prior corrosion protection. The truth is that adding an inhibitor to a contaminated system will not have the desired effect, and may even do harm. In this article, we will explain why it is important to clean the system before applying corrosion inhibitors.
Why doesn’t it work?
Sediment and contamination: Many years of unprotected operation lead to the accumulation of mineral deposits, rust and other contaminants. These deposits can block the corrosion inhibitor, preventing it from forming a protective layer on the surface of metals. Mineral deposits, such as scale, reduce heat transfer efficiency, and rust can lead to pipe perforations and leaks.
Neutralizing the inhibitor: Microorganisms such as bacteria and algae can further complicate the situation by forming biological films that neutralize the inhibitor.

What should be done?
Before adding corrosion inhibitor, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the installation. This process includes:
System flushing: Removal of mineral and mechanical deposits from the system. Procold offers specialized flushes that effectively clean HVAC systems of various types of contaminants. System flushing helps maintain high heat transfer efficiency and prevents the accumulation of deposits.
Chemical cleaning: Removal of chemical contaminants and microorganisms. Procold’s chemical cleaners are specially formulated to remove hard-to-remove deposits and contaminants, ensuring that the system is clean before corrosion inhibitors are applied.
Procold Aquacorr corrosion inhibitors
Aquacorr corrosion inhibitors are advanced formulations developed by Procold that effectively protect HVAC systems from corrosion. They form a protective layer on the surface of metals, preventing them from reacting with water and contaminants. For the inhibitors to work effectively, it is important that the installation is free of contaminants. Procold offers different types of inhibitors to suit the specific needs of different HVAC systems.
Procold Flushes
The rinses offered by Procold are a key part of the plant cleaning process. They are specially designed to effectively remove mineral deposits, chemical and biological contaminants. Using rinses ensures that HVAC systems remain in optimal condition, allowing corrosion inhibitors to work effectively.
For corrosion inhibitors to work effectively in an HVAC system, the system must be free of contaminants. Therefore, a thorough cleaning of the system with rinses and cleaners is necessary before adding an inhibitor. Procold’s products, such as Aquacorr inhibitors and specialized rinses, provide complete corrosion protection and keep your system in excellent condition. Invest in water quality and enjoy trouble-free operation of your system for many years.
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