The best heat exchanger cleaning company offers expert services that enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure optimal performance of your heat exchangers.
Top heat exchanger cleaning: HydroChem, Goodway, or MGT. Choose based on service needs.
Is your heat exchanger underperforming due to fouling, scaling, or debris buildup? Reduced efficiency, higher energy costs, and unexpected downtime plague industrial operations when exchangers aren’t properly maintained. The right heat exchanger cleaning company can restore peak performance and prevent costly failures. In this guide, we’ll cover the top service providers, cleaning methods, and how to choose the best partner. For DIY maintenance tips, explore our guide on tankless water heater descaling.
Key Takeaways
- HydroChem leads in chemical cleaning for heavy deposits
- Goodway offers versatile mechanical cleaning systems
- MGT specializes in large industrial exchanger maintenance
- Combination methods often yield best results
Best Heat Exchanger Cleaning Companies Compared
When selecting a heat exchanger cleaning service, consider these industry leaders:
| Company | Specialization | Key Advantage | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| HydroChem | Chemical cleaning | Advanced solvent formulations | Severe scaling cases |
| Goodway | Mechanical systems | AWT-100X flexible shaft technology | Precision tube cleaning |
| MGT | Industrial maintenance | On-site robotic cleaning | Large power plant exchangers |
HydroChem: Chemical Cleaning Experts
With 40+ years experience, HydroChem dominates the chemical cleaning sector. Their proprietary solvents dissolve even the most stubborn mineral deposits without damaging metal surfaces. The company maintains a fleet of mobile cleaning units that can service facilities nationwide. HydroChem’s circulation cleaning method ensures complete coverage of complex exchanger geometries.
Goodway: Mechanical Cleaning Innovators
Goodway’s equipment portfolio includes the industry-standard AWT-100X system, capable of cleaning tubes from 0.375″ to 4″ diameter. Their flexible shaft technology adapts to various deposit types while maintaining precise control. The company offers both wet and dry cleaning modes, critical for sensitive applications where moisture must be avoided.
MGT: Industrial Maintenance Leaders
MGT specializes in large-scale industrial exchanger maintenance, employing robotic crawlers for boilers and condensers. Their video inspection systems document before/after conditions, providing clients with verifiable results. MGT’s integrated approach combines mechanical cleaning with follow-up chemical treatments when needed.
Cleaning Methods Explained
Professional services typically use these techniques:
Mechanical Cleaning
Involves physical removal of deposits using brushes, scrapers, or high-pressure water jets. Effective for:
- Loose particulate matter
- Biological growth
- Soft scaling
Chemical Cleaning
Uses specialized solvents to dissolve:
- Mineral scale (calcium, magnesium)
- Corrosion products
- Polymerized oils
Combination Approach
Many experts recommend sequential cleaning – mechanical removal followed by chemical treatment. This ensures complete deposit elimination while minimizing chemical usage. The method is particularly effective for hydronic systems with mixed deposit types.
FAQs
How often should heat exchangers be cleaned?
Most industrial exchangers require annual cleaning, but high-fouling applications may need quarterly service. Monitor pressure drop and heat transfer efficiency to determine optimal frequency.
Can I clean heat exchangers myself?
Basic maintenance is possible with proper equipment, but professional services are recommended for thorough cleaning. Improper techniques can damage tubes or leave deposits that accelerate future fouling.
What’s the cost of professional cleaning?
Prices range from $1,500 for small shell-and-tube units to $15,000+ for large industrial exchangers. Get multiple quotes as pricing varies by deposit type and accessibility.
Final Recommendation
For most industrial facilities, Goodway offers the best balance of effectiveness and cost-efficiency. Their mechanical systems handle common fouling while minimizing downtime. Consider HydroChem for severe chemical scaling or MGT for massive power plant exchangers. Regular maintenance preserves efficiency – learn more about extending equipment lifespan through proper care.
