EXPRESS INHIBITOR TEST – YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

1.            What is the Fernox Express Inhibitor Test?
It is an easy to use dip strip that tests central heating systems for the correct concentration of inhibitor, to ensure that the system is fully protected and sludge and debris is prevented from forming and building up.


2.            Why do I need to test system water?
A core requirement under BS 7593:2019 is that central heating systems are tested annually, to help maintain system health and to identify and rectify any issues before they cause damage to the system. The Benchmark Commissioning Checklist further supports this practice to evidence the correct servicing and installation of boilers. The onsite Express Inhibitor Test makes compliance with these industry standards easy.

3.            How does it work?

Simply dip the test strip into the system water and it will instantly change colour. By comparing the test strip to the colour chart label on the bottle, installers can assess whether the system water includes the correct concentration of inhibitor. A fully protected system will have inhibitor levels of 100ppm or above – and will pass the test. However, if the test fails and a result of less than 100ppm is received, the system should be re-dosed.

4.            Does the Express Inhibitor Test check for all inhibitors?

Yes, the Express Inhibitor Test is a universal test that will check for the presence of all molybdate based inhibitors within the system water.

5.            How quick is the test?

The results are instant!

6.            What Fernox products can I use to re-dose the system?

If the dip test shows less than 100ppm, installers can immediately resolve the issue by adding a high-quality inhibitor such as Fernox Protector F1 or where a filter is fitted, Protector+ Filter Fluid. The test can be re-taken once the inhibitor has circulated to confirm the level has been met.

7.            After adding inhibitor to the system how long should I wait before re-testing the system water?

With the initial dose, its key to make sure the system water is circulated properly so that the inhibitor is sufficiently mixed. Fernox recommend that you let the system circulate for at least 15 minutes. Also having the system on hot will help speed this up.

8.            How can I keep a record of the pass / fail for each job?

It’s easy to keep track of test results with the free to download Fernox Water Test App, which installers can use to manage and evidence each test. Using the in-app camera, users take a picture of the test strip and select its colour to generate the pass or fail result. Using this process will auto-generate a PDF certificate with the result to your email address and this acts as evidence that the test has been completed and the system is fully protected. For ease, all of your submissions will be stored in your account for you to view and export on demand. If a test fails, installers can also demonstrate that action has been taken and the system subsequently re-tested to receive a positive result.

9.            Do I still need to perform a laboratory test?

BS 7593:2019 recommends that the inhibitor should either be re-dosed at 5-year intervals or, a more comprehensive laboratory test is conducted every five years to provide a more in-depth analysis, and where needed, establish targeted action to resolve issues and restore system efficiency. The Fernox Water Quality Test includes everything needed to take a sample of the system water and send it off to the Fernox laboratory for full analysis.

10.         How many strips are in each product container?

Each small, portable kit contains 50 test strips.

 
11.         Where can I buy the Fernox Express Inhibitor Test?

The Fernox Express Inhibitor Test is available from all major merchants and online plumbing retailers.