central heating ( softened water )

[dave b]

Helo All

About a year ago i fitted a water softener , it has been great , but in the mean time i have also fitted a new cylinder , so the system was re filled
using softened water.

I have just found out that softened water should not be used in the system, can anyone tell me why and what damage i could have done .

I intend today to flush out/drain the system with the water softener bypass on , after i have been out to get inhibitor.

Thanks Dave

 

[WoodYouLike]

Have a look here and if still not sure, give them a call (very helpful people)

 

[JohnD]

There is a lot of rubbish talked about it. Check with the manufacturers of the inhibitor chemical you are going to use.

I have a softener and use Sentinel X100, they said it is OK to use
http://www.sentinel-solutions.net/product/detail/central-heating/liquids/x100-inhibitor/ look at FAQs

"Will Sentinel X100 protect my system if it is filled with softened water?

Softened water, particularly those from household softeners not conforming to BS EN 14743, is not suitable for filling a domestic central heating system unless the water is treated with a high quality corrosion inhibitor. Unlike many other products on the market, Sentinel X100 has been especially designed to cope with all types of supply water, even softened water and affords complete protection. "

At one time I considered asking my window cleaner (who carries a tank of purified water in his van) to pump 100 litres inside for me to fill the CH system, but couldn't be bothered.