System Piping - IBC EX Series Installation & Operating Manual

Caution
Contact local water purveyors about the suitability of the supply for use in hydronic
heating systems.
If unsure about water quality, request testing and assessment (and treatment, if
required) from a local water treatment expert.
Alternatively, water or hydronic fluid of known quality can be brought to the site.

3.8.2 System piping

System piping is connected to the boiler using 2½" NPT-Male threaded fittings. To simplify
servicing, we recommend using unions or flanged fittings, gate or ball valves at the boiler's
supply and return water connections. You must install un-insulated hot water pipes with a
minimum ¼" clearance from combustible materials.
Fluid fill is most often accomplished by using a boiler regulator & fill valve set at 12 psig or more,
with the appropriate backflow prevention device as required by local code. This is acceptable in
areas where municipal water or well water has been treated and filtered to remove excessive
minerals and sediment, and water chemistry is known to be suitable for closed loop hydronic
systems. In areas where water quality is in question, or when chemical treatment or glycol is
required, other options should be considered. Follow the applicable codes and good piping
practice.
Warning
Close the fill valve after any addition of water to the system, to reduce risk of water
escapement.
There are a number of boiler feed and pressurization devices on the market today that may be a
better choice than a raw water fill from the mains. When regular maintenance requires relief
valve blow-off, the discharge may be directed back into the pressurization appliance for
recycling of boiler fluid and chemicals back into the system. In buildings that may be unoccupied
for long periods of time, pressurization appliances are useful to prevent flood damage should
leakage occur from any component in the system. An additional benefit is that backflow
prevention devices are not required when using these devices.
Do not place any water connections above the boiler; leaks can damage the fan and controls. If
needed, create a shield over the top of the cover, but allow clearance for airflow and service
access.
For best results, use a Primary/Secondary piping system, with a pumped boiler loop using 2½"
piping. Refer to Table 7 or to Table 8 for boiler head loss information.
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Section: Installation