We are well into the winter season, which calls for a quick reminder on freeze protection for any boiler equipment installed outdoors, whether it is a temporary rental boiler or your facility equipment. Taking the proper preventative measures will avoid operational difficulties and major damage to your system. During freezing weather conditions, Nationwide Boiler recommends the following:
1. Enclose both the front and rear of the boiler area and use an external heat source to minimize freezing conditions.
2. Install heat tracing with insulation to protect exposed stagnant water lines.
3. Utilize an appropriate heat tracing method (electric or steam tracing) to all of your main lines and piping components. This includes the following lines, which should be heat traced regardless of whether the boiler is in operation or not (in freezing conditions):
a. Sensing lines (steam drum to CRM, high steam, and steam gauge)
b. Auxiliary low-water cut-off
c. Water column
d. Level control blowdown
e. Main and continuous blowdown (depending on length of piping runs)