Magnetic Boiler Filter

In a hydronic system, every installation is an opportunity to improve efficiency. The products you select for the job not only impact the installation of today but the performance of tomorrow. This is especially true when installing a boiler; the components you pair with the unit can mean the difference between a simple installation and a smarter installation.

Auxiliary boiler accessories range in both form and function. The best products for the job should be designed to save time, space, and labor during installation. They should also provide controls to ease future maintenance and should protect the boiler and system components over time.

With these goals in mind, Webstone has developed the most complete selection of under boiler solutions available today. Its under boiler program is a single source for better installations, with products that also simplify and reduce the number of maintenance callbacks.

The Hydro-Core™ manifold simplifies the installation and service of the primary heating loop. This solution combines closely-spaced tees with isolation valves to achieve hydraulic separation for the heating loops, isolates the components within the loop, and purges the system. A T-Flow ball directs the flow into either the boiler or the drain, which can be configured in a number of ways to assist with purging, filling, and descaling/cleaning. Its compact, forged-brass body replaces up to 17 individual components, eliminates 16 leak paths, and saves over two hours of labor.

To improve overall system performance, the Air Separator uses a unique stainless-steel coalescing medium that captures both microbubbles and static air. The separated air collects in the top of the unit, where it forces a pin-guided float to drop down and open a vent. Once the air is released, the float rises once again and closes the vent. This reduces noise as well as wear on system components caused by trapped air in the pipes. The vertically mounted model is ideal for installing on the boiler outlet, where the air can be separated and vented before it reaches the rest of the system.

To protect the boiler from iron sludge that can accumulate in a hydronic system, consider the Magnetic Boiler Filter. Installed on the system return line, it captures ferrous and non-ferrous debris before it can reach the boiler using a high-powered 12,000 Gauss magnet and plastic filter. The drain makes it simple to remove accumulation, with a strapped cap that can be used to actuate the drain valve. A universal diverter allows the Magnetic Boiler Filter to be used in both horizontal and vertical piping orientations. The service tool is also included to help install and maintain the filter with ease.

Both the vertical mount Air Separator and Magnetic Boiler Filter are outfitted with removable G1 threaded end connections (available in sizes ¾” and 1”, with MIP, FIP, SWT, or Press ends), offering added versatility to any installation. These threads allow the installer to easily add isolation valves for future service, or a temperature gauge to verify boiler output right at the source.

A full-featured under the boiler installation from Webstone requires no more than 22” of space and delivers cleaner, more professional-looking results. Solutions are also available for boilers with external pumps and combi domestic hot water connections from the E-X-P™ Series of Tankless Water Heater Service Valves. To find all of these products and more, visit www.webstonevalves.com.

Founded in 1954, Webstone now operates as a brand of NIBCO INC. and is recognized as an industry leader for innovative design of residential and commercial valves used in plumbing, hydronic, radiant, solar and geothermal applications. These designs focus on time and space-saving concepts that simplify future maintenance and upkeep of all piping systems. Some of the Webstone trademarked and patented items include Hydro-Core™, The Isolator®, E-X-P™, Pro-Connect™, and Pro-Pal® step-saving valves.

Whether installing a new boiler or maintaining an existing one, it’s important to consider the inherent issues that can befall a hydronic system and impact the performance of its components. Anticipating these pitfalls and planning accordingly will result in a smarter installation.  By choosing your boiler accessories wisely, you can extend the life of your boiler and maintain its efficiency while guarding against potential problems down the road.

One of the most common issues comes in the form of ferrous debris, a result of normal metal pipe wear that, when left unchecked, can cause major problems. Over time, rust particles and other debris in the heating loop build up, creating an iron sludge that reduces boiler efficiency or even stops it altogether from working. The resulting damage can require expensive repairs, increase heating costs, and reduce the overall lifespan of the boiler.

To combat the accumulated sludge in the pipes, a system flush may be required. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could be a costly and time-consuming process. Moreover, doing so will not reverse any damage that’s already been done to the boiler. By the same token, boiler manufacturers are becoming more stringent about their warranty claim requirements. Installing a boiler accessory as a precautionary measure is the most consistent way to ensure due diligence is being done. The best protection from iron sludge is to prevent it from ever reaching the appliance.

To protect the boiler, consider the Magnetic Boiler Filter (MBF) from Webstone®, a brand of NIBCO. It captures ferrous and non-ferrous debris before it can reach the boiler using a high-powered 12,000 Gauss magnet. Its internal filter knocks out sediment as it enters the unit, breaking down the sludge and maintaining optimal flow rate. The build-up is captured in the body, which has a large storage capacity to increase time between service. The strapped cap is also used to actuate the integrated drain valve, making it simple to remove accumulation when needed, and a service tool is included to help remove the filter housing with ease.

The MBF bodies feature G-thread ends for connection to your choice of MIP, FIP, sweat, or press union fittings. Unions and bodies can be purchased as an installation kit or as separate components depending on the installer’s preference. Optional lead-free dezincification-resistant brass isolation valves are also available to simplify future service. When installed in conjunction with a circulator pump, the flanged ball valve saves space, labor, and leak paths compared to the off-the-shelf assemblies that would normally be required to connect the two appliances. It also mitigates the risk of electrolysis and galvanic corrosion, while allowing virtually no air into the system upon pump replacement. For more simple isolation needs, Webstone offers straight and angled G-union ball valves with reversible handles.

For smaller systems, the ¾” and 1” models feature a universal diverter that allows the MBF to be used in both horizontal and vertical piping orientations on the system return line. For horizontal installations on the system run, the Magnetic Boiler Filter XL model is now available in sizes 1¼” or 1½”. Introduced in 2021, the patent-pending MBF XL is ideal for larger residential and light commercial boiler applications, with a robust 2-layer metal mesh filter and manual air vent.

Webstone offers a wide array of system performance products designed to support efficient operations and protect components. To learn more about how you can work smarter, visit Webstone Valves.