Looking back at BS 7593:2019: A New Era for Domestic Heating and Cooling Systems.

Looking back at BS 7593:2019: A New Era for Domestic Heating and Cooling Systems.

The 2019 revision of BS 7593 marks a significant advancement in how we approach the care of domestic heating and cooling water systems. 

Replacing the 2006 version, this updated standard doesn't just tweak existing practices; it fundamentally rethinks what constitutes best practice, shifting the focus from simply protecting the boiler to ensuring the long-term health and efficiency of the entire system. 

Let's explore the key changes and what they mean for homeowners and installers.

BS 7593:2019 champions a proactive, preventative philosophy. It acknowledges that a well-functioning system relies on clean, treated water circulating throughout. 

The standard addresses this by introducing several critical updates:

1. The Imperative of In-Line Filtration: A cornerstone of the revised standard is the mandatory inclusion of a permanent in-line filter in all systems. 

This is a game-changing addition, offering continuous protection against the buildup of debris, magnetite, and other contaminants that can severely hamper performance and shorten component lifespan. 

While chemical cleaning and flushing remain important, the in-line filter provides ongoing filtration, capturing particles that might enter or be generated within the system over time. 

This addresses a significant weakness in the previous standard, which primarily focused on the initial cleaning phase.

2. Elevating Cleaning Procedures: Chemical cleaning and flushing are still essential, but BS 7593:2019 goes further, recommending the use of external magnetite capture equipment and mechanical radiator vibration to maximize the effectiveness of the cleaning process. 

These enhancements allow for a more complete removal of stubborn deposits, ensuring a cleaner system from the start.

3. Regular Checks and Upkeep: Maintaining System Vitality: Annual water testing is now required to monitor inhibitor levels and system cleanliness. 

These routine check-ups facilitate the early identification of potential issues and verify the continued effectiveness of the inhibitor. 

The standard also mandates inhibitor replenishment every five years, or a comprehensive system water test as an alternative. 

This proactive approach to maintenance is vital for preventing corrosion, scaling, and other problems that can negatively impact performance and longevity.

4. Expanding the Scope to Embrace Cooling: BS 7593:2019 now explicitly covers both closed-loop heating and cooling systems. 

This is a crucial step, recognizing the shared water treatment needs of both types of systems and ensuring that cooling systems, often neglected, receive the same level of care as heating systems.

5. Biocides: A New Layer of Defense: The standard now requires the use of biocides in cooling and low-temperature heating systems and suggests their use in higher-temperature systems, particularly during periods of inactivity. 

Biocides help prevent the proliferation of harmful bacteria and algae, which can clog pipes, impede heat transfer, and even create health hazards.

The Ripple Effect of BS 7593:2019:

The adoption of BS 7593:2019 promises numerous benefits:

 * Extended System Life: By mitigating the detrimental effects of corrosion and scaling, the standard contributes to a longer lifespan for all system components.

 

* Enhanced Performance: Clean systems operate more efficiently, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.

 * Environmental Responsibility: Improved efficiency directly reduces carbon emissions, promoting a more sustainable approach.

 * Reduced Boiler Failures: A large proportion of premature boiler failures are caused by poor water quality. 

BS 7593:2019 directly addresses this issue, substantially decreasing the risk of early boiler replacements.

In Summary:

BS 7593:2019 represents a fundamental shift in how we approach the care of domestic heating and cooling systems. 

It moves from reactive repairs to proactive prevention, emphasizing whole-system health. 

By mandating in-line filters, regular testing, and improved cleaning methods, the standard has the potential to dramatically improve the efficiency, longevity, and environmental footprint of domestic heating and cooling systems. 

Its widespread implementation is essential for ensuring that homeowners enjoy reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound heating and cooling for years to come.

Andrew Tyler Gas Safe Registered Heating Engineer Horsham.