How often should steam heating boilers with little or no make-up water be blown down?

Steam heating boilers with little or no make-up water should be blown down once a week to maintain optimal performance and safety. This regular blowdown is essential to removing accumulated sediment and minerals that can concentrate in the boiler water, potentially leading to problems such as reduced efficiency and increased risk of corrosion or scaling within the boiler.

Blowdown frequency is determined by factors such as boiler operation, water quality, and the amount of solid content in the water. Weekly blowdowns help ensure that the boiler water chemistry remains stable and that any impurities are effectively managed before they can settle and cause harm. Additionally, this practice supports maintaining proper water levels and pressure, which are crucial for safe and efficient boiler operation.

Longer intervals between blowdowns, like once a month or bi-weekly, may not adequately control sediment buildup, while daily blowdowns might be excessive for systems with minimal make-up water, leading to unnecessary water loss and energy inefficiency. Therefore, a weekly blowdown schedule strikes the right balance for effective maintenance in this context.