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DISCLAIMER - IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ


This article is provided for information purposes only. You should only attempt any procedures explained here if you are competent to perform the task and have the appropriate tools and materials, including any relevant safety equipment.

Readers acting upon this article do so at their own risk and no responsibility is accepted by the author or publisher for any loss or damage incurred by following the article or failing to follow it.

If in doubt always consult a properly qualified tradesperson or other competent person.

WHAT IS A 'pH' LEVEL OR 'pH' VALUE?


The 'pH' level or pH value of water is a measure of its acidity.

The lower the pH number, the more acidic the water. The pH number is important, as acidity in heating systems can corrode components such as boilers and radiators.

Starting with '1', as the pH value rises above 1 the water is graded as less acidic until it reachs a value of 7, which is neutral (the water is neither acid nor alkaline).

Above 7 the water is more alkaline, so a pH value of 7 is beneficial to the water in heating systems as it does not corrode the pipework and radiators in the same way as acidic water would.

HOW DO I INCREASE THE PH VALUE OF MY HEATING WATER?


Increasing the pH value is normally achieved through flushing out the heating system to get rid of acidic water, then adding a neutraliser to help balance the pH level to 7 (neutral), then adding proprietary chemical corrosion inhibitors to keep the water 'pH' level at 7 by combating corrosion in the system (which will turn the water acidic).

The corrosion inhibitor should be topped up every 12-24 months, depending on the brand and the normal acidity of the local water.
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