Specialty pipe cleaning involves using safe and effective chemicals and other professional measures to clean debris, dirt, grime and bacteria out of a piping system. It is helpful to understand the different types of specialty pipe cleanings and the benefits to know which option your piping system might need and decide if ordering a cleaning is right for you.
Types of Cleanings
Chemical cleaning for piping systems is not a one size fits all situation. The fact is every piping system is unique, and the cleaning should be tailored to meet the needs of the individual system. Subsequently, there are different types of specialty pipe cleanings that professional chemical cleaning companies utilize to ensure they can successfully remove all buildup of debris and other contaminants that exist within pipes.
The three most common types of specialty pipe cleanings are supplemental pipe cleanings, complete systems cleanings, and acid cleaning. These are not interchangeable cleaning options in most instances. The method that works best is dependent on several factors. Most notably, the type of piping system (supplemental, complete, etc.) plays a significant role in which option is best. Also, knowing the previous methods that were tried in the past may play a role in the recommended type of specialty cleaning as well. To gain a better understanding of these three primary types of cleanings, the following is a complete overview of each option.
Supplemental Pipe Cleaning
Supplemental pipes are pipes that connect to an existing piping system. They play an important role in making the entire system run smoothly. If there are issues with a buildup of contaminants inside the supplemental pipes, then concerns can migrate into the entire system problems, such as poor water quality, blockages, filming of heat exchange equipment and more may develop.
A professional supplemental pipe cleaning usually involves using an external specialty pump to force water through a small section of a system to remove any buildup within the supplemental pipes and system. The main benefit is that it keeps the entire piping system running smoothly and in a clean manner. If supplemental piping is cleaned this can help prevent the need for more complex repairs in the future.
Complete Systems Cleaning
A complete system relies upon existing piping system pumps to operate. This is because a minimum flow-rate is required through all the necessary devices to be cleaned. A complete systems cleaning involves cleaning all debris and other contaminants from the entire system and ensuring it runs in a clean and efficient manner.
Complete systems do not require uniquely sized pumps, and the pipes can often be effectively cleaned by receiving circulation from their own pumps during chemical cleaning. However, issues can develop if the systems strainers are not properly cleaned and damage can take place if the system is not properly surveyed.
Due to the potential risks, cleaning a complete system requires a specialty pipe cleaning service. A professional can configure the proper flow rates, checking that they are achieved and the contaminants are removed upon completion while keeping your complete system healthy and working well.
Acid Cleaning — Neutral pH Cleaning
Acid cleaning is a type of specialty pipe cleaning in which acidic chemicals are used to remove a buildup of contaminants inside the piping system. They are generally recommended for piping systems that are not working the way they are supposed to.
However, many companies that provide specialty pipe cleanings do not offer acid cleaning as a first result. This is because they can become a safety hazard, cause damage to piping surfaces and limit the life of your piping system if it is not done in a professional and responsible manner. Neutral pH cleaners are great alternatives and can achieve similar goals with far fewer consequences.
If other measures do not work, then an acid cleaning might be the best course of action. When performed correctly, acid cleaning removes most if not all continents and restores the function and safety of your piping system. However, it is important to choose a reliable professional that has experience with acid cleaning to ensure safe and effective results.
Consult with the Specialty Pipe Cleaning Experts
Tower Water offers specialty pipe cleanings for commercial and industrial clients and especially pre- and post-construction in the area. Our professional and experienced team knows how to work with a range of different types of piping systems. If you are interested in learning more about each type of specialty pipe cleaning and why you should consider having a cleaning, then reach out to our friendly team today.
We are happy to address any questions you may have and provide you with more insights so that you can make an informed decision as to whether your piping system needs chemical cleaning.
