Commissioning is one of the most important stages in the lifecycle of a district heating network. Done well, it ensures that your system operates efficiently, reliably and for the long term. Done poorly, it can lead to corrosion, blockages or reduced performance that undermine the entire investment.
To avoid these risks, the industry relies on BSRIA BG29 – Pre-Commission Cleaning of Pipework Systems, which sets out the best practices for preparing, flushing and validating water systems. At PPSL District Heating, we follow these standards to help clients achieve smooth handovers and resilient operation.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to commissioning a closed loop district heating network in line with BG29.
Good commissioning starts long before water ever enters the pipework. At the design stage, it’s crucial to think ahead:
Before installation begins, a detailed commissioning plan should be developed in line with BSRIA BG29 and BG6. This will cover:
During construction, the design intent must be verified against the actual installation. This includes checking that flushing points and sample points are where they should be and that filters and strainers are correctly in place.
Before cleaning begins, the system should be filled with clean water to check for leaks. Temporary filtration may also be installed to help manage debris during flushing.
This is where the system is physically cleaned to remove construction debris and contaminants. Depending on the layout, techniques may include:
In addition to flushing, chemical cleaning may be required. Cleaning agents are selected based on system materials and must be neutralised after use. All of this is validated through water sampling and testing against BG29 standards.
Once clean, the system is immediately dosed with corrosion inhibitors and biocides to prevent deterioration before handover. Detailed records of the chemicals used, concentrations and batch numbers should be kept.
If handover is delayed, the system must be sealed and protected from contamination. At this stage, documentation is prepared, including flushing logs, dosing records and sampling results.
The final stage involves witnessed testing and validation with stakeholders, followed by a full commissioning report. Handover documentation typically includes:
This ensures everyone involved has confidence that the system meets BG29 requirements.
Commissioning is only the beginning. To protect the network over its entire lifecycle, continuous water quality management is essential. This involves:
This proactive approach reduces the risks of corrosion, biofouling and efficiency loss.
Commissioning a closed loop district heating network is not just a box-ticking exercise – it’s the foundation of reliable, efficient and cost-effective operation. By following BSRIA BG29 stakeholders can ensure the system is clean, protected, and ready for long-term service. PPSL District Heating specialise in supporting clients through every stage of commissioning – from design advice and flushing strategy to chemical dosing, monitoring and ongoing water quality management. With our expertise, you can be confident your network will deliver reliable performance for years to come.
