Which type of acid should be used for chemically cleaning a condenser?

Using an inhibited acid for chemically cleaning a condenser is important because inhibited acids contain additives that minimize metal corrosion during the cleaning process. When cleaning heat exchangers, such as condensers, it is crucial to prevent damage to the metal surfaces, which can be caused by strong acids. Inhibited acids provide a protective layer on the metal that helps avoid corrosion while still effectively removing scale, mineral deposits, and other build-up.

In contrast, a non-inhibited acid does not have this protection, making it more likely to cause damage to the metal. Hydrochloric acid, while effective, is a strong mineral acid that can be particularly aggressive and may lead to severe metal corrosion, especially if not used with inhibitors. Acetic acid is a weaker organic acid and, although it can remove some deposits, it may not be as effective on tougher scaling or mineral deposits as inhibited acids designed for this specific purpose. Therefore, when considering efficiency and safety for the condenser's materials, inhibited acids are the preferred option.