Will I be ok with using a flat panel heat exchanger for my DHW if I have a softener system already in place?
Flat Panel v.s. Sidearm (well water through softener)
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maple1
Minister of Fire
Define 'OK'.
You mention sidearm in the topic, but don't see it in your post. Whichever way you go, just make sure to install enough boiler drains & ball valves so you can easily flush it if you have to. Biggest difference is plate needs pumped but sidearm usually convects, if plumbed properly.
You mention sidearm in the topic, but don't see it in your post. Whichever way you go, just make sure to install enough boiler drains & ball valves so you can easily flush it if you have to. Biggest difference is plate needs pumped but sidearm usually convects, if plumbed properly.
Typically you will get much better performance from a pumped flow heat exchanger. The amount of DHW a small plate type HX will provide is incredible. Some of the new combo boilers have tiny 3X8" heat exchangers providing 3 gpm.
If plate type HXers are sized properly the flow and velocity keeps the surfaces scoured. Keeping the A side temperature as low as possible helps lessen mineral precipitation.
As Maple advised add a few valves to allow the HX to be acid cleaned if required. It's all comes down to the quality of the water you feed them, softners are a plus if you have hard water.
All of this comes down to proper sizing. I think the link at the very top has an excellent sizing example for DHW plate HXers.
If plate type HXers are sized properly the flow and velocity keeps the surfaces scoured. Keeping the A side temperature as low as possible helps lessen mineral precipitation.
As Maple advised add a few valves to allow the HX to be acid cleaned if required. It's all comes down to the quality of the water you feed them, softners are a plus if you have hard water.
All of this comes down to proper sizing. I think the link at the very top has an excellent sizing example for DHW plate HXers.
woodsmaster
Minister of Fire
Ive use a side arm around five years now. works good when boiler water is 145 or higher. any lower temps and recovery time is greatly increased.
I use an 80 gallon tank and it works nice. If you have a 5 or more people and or use a lot of hot water id go flat plate or pump the domestic side of the sidearm too.
I use an 80 gallon tank and it works nice. If you have a 5 or more people and or use a lot of hot water id go flat plate or pump the domestic side of the sidearm too.
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