Fernox Chemicals is one of the most trusted names in water treatment. They offer a comprehensive range of products designed to protect and optimise central heating systems. Not only to combat sludge, limescale and corrosion, but also to improve energy efficiency long-term for smooth and reliable running. So, what can Fernox do for you?
We’ll break down essential Fernox products, including what they do, when to use them and how they help you maintain a healthy central heating system. Whether you’re a homeowner, installer, or tradesperson, we’ll inform you so you can choose the right Fernox product for your requirements.
Table of contents:
- Inhibitors and protectors
- Cleaners
- Leak sealers
- Test kits
- Plumbing consumables
- Bacteria control
- Heat transfer
- Scale reducers
- Fernox Express range
Inhibitors and protectors
You may be wondering why central heating inhibitors are important. Well, a Fernox inhibitor is considered best practice for maintaining long-term system performance. In fact, to keep the inside of your heating system alive, inhibitors prevent:
- Corrosion
- Sludge formation
- Limescale
Without an inhibitor, metal components react with oxygen in water. This can result in corrosion debris that blocks pipework, damages pumps, and reduces boiler efficiency. It can also cause boiler noise, radiator blockages and full boiler breakdowns.
So, how often should a Fernox inhibitor be checked or replaced?
Experts recommend testing your inhibitor levels annually. If you drain or partially empty the system, you need to replace the inhibitor. You can use Fernox test kits to confirm whether the concentration is correct.
Cleaners
A cleaner is typically used during system commissioning after installation, but it can be used when an existing system shows the following signs:
- Poor circulation
- Cold spots
- Boiler noise
Cleaners can remove sludge, limescale, and installation residues (such as flux and solder) to improve heat transfer.
Do I need to flush the system after using a cleaner?
Yes, after circulating the cleaner for the required time. Thoroughly flush the system to remove contaminants, then add an inhibitor to prevent the same issues from returning.
Leak sealers
A leak sealer is designed to circulate through the system and polymerise when exposed to the air around a leak. They can be used for minor issues such as:
- Micro-leaks
- Pinholes
- Weeping joints that are difficult to access
They are not suitable for major or sudden leaks.
Will a leak sealer damage the boiler or pump?
If used as directed, no. It will not cause damage to the boiler or pump. Fernox leak sealers are developed to remain stable in circulation, only activating on contact with air at the leak site. So they’re safe for modern boilers, pumps and valves.
Test kits
Poor quality water is a leading cause of boiler breakdowns. Regular and routine water testing is a helpful way to support preventative maintenance, by:
- Verifying inhibitor levels
- Detecting early-stage corrosion
- Assess overall system health
Are Fernox test kits suitable for domestic and commercial systems?
Yes, they offer test kits designed for a wide range of system sizes and water conditions. This provides accurate and easy-to-interpret results.
Plumbing consumables
Fernox has a broad range of plumbing consumables. This includes WRAS-approved, potable, traditional joining compounds. So, what are Fernox jointing compounds used for?
A Fernox jointing compound provides a reliable seal on compression fittings and threaded joints. Many products are WRAS-approved, making them suitable for potable (drinking water) systems and heating installations.
Can Fernox consumables be used externally?
Yes, certain Fernox compounds also act as external leak sealers. This offers a versatile solution for minor weeps on accessible fittings.
Bacteria control
Controlling bacterial growth is important for heating and cooling systems because biofilms, bacteria and microbial contamination can cause major issues such as:
- Reduction in heat transfer efficiency
- Blockages
- Create health risks such as Legionella
Fernox treatment chemicals penetrate and break down biofilms. This helps prevent issues such as Legionella and Pseudomonas.
Which systems benefit from Fernox bacterial control products?
These treatments are suitable for:
- Heating systems
- Chilled water system
- Underfloor heating
- Renewable installations (e.g., heat pumps)
Heat transfer
Renewable heating technologies are on the rise, such as solar thermal and heat pumps. Fernox has developed specialised products to protect and enhance these systems. So, what role do heat transfer fluids play in renewable systems?
Fernox heat transfer fluids are engineered to withstand temperature fluctuations and provide long-term system stability. They can:
- Deliver corrosion protection
- Prevent limescale
- Maintain stable thermal performance in solar thermal and heat pump systems.
Do heat transfer fluids need to be replaced?
Yes, over time, glycol-based fluids degrade. Most renewable systems should have their fluids tested every 1-3 years and replaced when pH, inhibitor level or glycol strength drops below recommended levels.
Scale reducers
Limescale is forever a common contributor to reduced system efficiency. This results in higher energy bills for homeowners and typically has a negative impact on boiler life. Most often prematurely limiting said lifespan of vulnerable system components like heat exchangers and pumps.
The whole house and individual appliances can benefit from Fernox chemical treatments and limescale producers. They protect against and prevent limescale build-up, plus make it easier to remove.
Can Fernox scale reducers help in hard water areas?
Yes, Fernox chemical scale reducers are formulated to prevent scale formation in central heating systems and domestic appliances. This offers whole-house protection in hard water regions.
Fernox Express range
The Fernox Express Range by Fernox Chemicals consists of fast-acting, aerosol-based water treatment products designed for quick and convenient dosing. Unlike traditional liquid bottles, Express products use a pressurised canister so you can inject treatment directly into the system through the radiator, filling loop or system filter without draining it.
What are the benefits of using Fernox Express products?
Fernox Express offers several advantages over standard dosing methods:
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- No drain-down required: Products can be added quickly without emptying or isolating the system
- Rapid application: Dosing typically takes minutes, reducing labour time for installers and minimising disruption for homeowners.
- Precise dosage: Each canister contains the correct concentration for a typical domestic heating system, helping ensure consistent water quality.
- Cleaner installation process: No spills, no heavy containers and far easier for tight spaces or quick callouts.
- Ideal for maintenance visits: Express is designed for fast servicing, top-ups or corrective treatments
Are Express products as effective as standard Fernox chemicals?
Yes, Fernox Express formulations contain the same active ingredients found in their traditional liquid products. They provide full protection in a more efficient, installer-friendly format against:
- Corrosion
- Sludge
- Limescale
- Leaks
What Fernox Express products are available?
Each product is tailored for fast, accurate dosing without compromising performance. The most commonly used Express products include:
- Inhibitor Express: For system protection
- Cleaner F3/F5 Express: For removing sludge and installation debris
- Leak Sealer Express: For repairing micro-leaks
- Biocide Express: For controlling bacteria in renewable/low-temperature systems
Is the Express range compatible with all heating systems?
Yes, Fernox Express treatments are suitable for sealed and open-vented domestic heating systems. This includes:
- Combi boilers
- System boilers
- Underfloor heating
- Low-temperature renewable systems
They are also safe for use with plastic and metal components.
To conclude
Fernox Chemicals are an essential part of keeping your heating systems working efficiently and preventing issues that would typically cause major breakdowns and problems over time. So, ensure you maintain your heating system properly and utilise the right products for the job.
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