EcoRenovator - View Single Post - What kind of PEX tubing for hydronic heat?

Mikesolar · 09-30-13, 05:09 AM

I have taken apart 100 year old steel pipe systems and the inside of the the pipe is pristine because no O2 got in there to cause rust and unless there is consistent leaks it will be good for another 100 years. Steam systems are a different matter entirely.

There won't be bacteria because there is no food for it and it needs an O2 environment. Most sludge is particulate matter in the water, pipe cutting oils or rust from any iron or steel component and even if some parts are brass, there may be a steel mesh or pin in it. Even smaller amounts can sometimes get into a pump bearing and seize it up.

In the heating trade we know it is just good practice to try and keep the whole system O2 free.

09-30-13, 05:09 AM	#5
Mikesolar Master EcoRenovator Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Toronto Posts: 958 Thanks: 40 Thanked 158 Times in 150 Posts	I have taken apart 100 year old steel pipe systems and the inside of the the pipe is pristine because no O2 got in there to cause rust and unless there is consistent leaks it will be good for another 100 years. Steam systems are a different matter entirely. There won't be bacteria because there is no food for it and it needs an O2 environment. Most sludge is particulate matter in the water, pipe cutting oils or rust from any iron or steel component and even if some parts are brass, there may be a steel mesh or pin in it. Even smaller amounts can sometimes get into a pump bearing and seize it up. In the heating trade we know it is just good practice to try and keep the whole system O2 free. Last edited by Mikesolar; 09-30-13 at 05:12 AM..