Sanitizing the water system
I see that information about sanitizing the water system has turned to some peoples opinion on whether they think it needs to be done. Because everybody's circumstances vary it is sometimes practical ...
Forum Discussion
Look up the Purogene MSDS. It's a "Mixture of Oxychlorine Compounds" (sodium chlorite and chlorine dioxide)). IOW, not much different than using bleach, which is sodium hypochlorite.
Chlorine disinfectants tend to degrade rubber parts (pump and faucet washers), and leave the distinctive chlorine smell/odor.
Iodine disinfectants will stain stuff yellow/brown, so like chlorine, shouldn't be left in the system for any extended period. And make sure you don't let it sit in a sink or shower when flushing the lines.
Bleach is easy to find and cheap - I use it for a quick disinfection, but then flush with clear water afterwards.
I think maybe next time, I'll try phosphoric and dodecylbenzenesulfonic acids (Starsan, Zep FS). Doesn't take much (1 oz/5 gal). Doesn't stain, leaves no taste or smell after draining. Only takes a few minutes to do its work. You don't even have to flush, if you can blow out or drain the system. Like iodine/iodophor, commonly used for brewing.
It tends to foam, which can be good. A couple gallons of solution in the tank, and a bit of driving around, and the foam will build and disinfect the sides and top.
Chlorine disinfectants tend to degrade rubber parts (pump and faucet washers), and leave the distinctive chlorine smell/odor.
Iodine disinfectants will stain stuff yellow/brown, so like chlorine, shouldn't be left in the system for any extended period. And make sure you don't let it sit in a sink or shower when flushing the lines.
Bleach is easy to find and cheap - I use it for a quick disinfection, but then flush with clear water afterwards.
I think maybe next time, I'll try phosphoric and dodecylbenzenesulfonic acids (Starsan, Zep FS). Doesn't take much (1 oz/5 gal). Doesn't stain, leaves no taste or smell after draining. Only takes a few minutes to do its work. You don't even have to flush, if you can blow out or drain the system. Like iodine/iodophor, commonly used for brewing.
It tends to foam, which can be good. A couple gallons of solution in the tank, and a bit of driving around, and the foam will build and disinfect the sides and top.
