As the summer heat increases, it brings unique challenges for cooling towers and HVAC systems especially when it comes to legionella. With higher temperatures comes a higher risk of bacteria growth as water systems can become a breeding ground if not properly treated.
Naturally, your water treatment program will include chemically dosing your system with a biocide to prevent legionella growth. However, during peak temperatures, it is recommended to complete a one time concentrated shock treatment of the system.
It’s important to understand what a summertime disinfection is, why it is performed during the peak of summer, and how it keeps heat exchanger surfaces clean so your system runs efficiently through peak season.
What Is A Summertime Hypohalogenation?
Summertime hypohalogenation is a vital water treatment process performed during the warmer months to maintain the cleanliness and safety of water systems. It involves increasing the levels of disinfectant, typically chlorine or other halogens, to effectively control the growth of harmful microorganisms, such as Legionella.
This practice is crucial because higher temperatures create a conducive environment for microbial proliferation. By implementing a summertime disinfection, water treatment professionals can prevent microbial contamination, ensuring the health and well-being of occupants.
In some states like New York, this process is mandated by the Department of Health. It is a best practice which proactively addresses potential microbial contamination during times when cooling systems are most prone.
Bacteria Loading In The Summertime
Bacteria loading refers to the concentration or amount of bacteria present in a water system. It represents the quantity of bacteria that is introduced into the system or generated within it. In the summertime, bacteria loading tends to be higher due to several factors.
Firstly, warmer temperatures create an ideal environment for bacterial growth and reproduction. Bacteria thrive in these conditions, leading to a higher population within the water system. Additionally, increased water usage during the summer, such as higher demand for cooling towers, can introduce more bacteria into the system through external sources.
A summertime disinfection plays a crucial role in addressing the higher bacteria loading. By performing a targeted disinfection process, such as a hypohalogenation treatment, water treatment professionals can effectively control and reduce the bacterial population.
The Role Of Hypohalogenation In Heat Exchanger Maintenance
Heat exchangers are vital components of HVAC and cooling systems that transfer heat between fluids. During operation, these heat exchangers can accumulate fouling, such as biofilm, mineral deposits, and debris, which can reduce their efficiency and performance.
A summer disinfection helps keep heat exchanger surfaces clean and free from microbial contamination. By performing a targeted disinfection process, water treatment professionals can effectively control and reduce the microbial build up. This helps prevent the formation of biofilm and the growth of bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms on the heat exchanger surfaces.
By maintaining clean heat exchanger surfaces through summer disinfection, the heat transfer efficiency of the system is optimized. Improved heat transfer allows the system to operate more efficiently, leading to energy savings and reduced operational costs.
Additionally, clean heat exchangers are less prone to corrosion and scale formation, which extends their lifespan and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Contact The Water Treatment Pros
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Keep Your Water Clean All Year
By understanding the importance of a summertime disinfection, why it is performed during the peak of summer, and how it keeps heat exchanger surfaces clean, you can proactively keep bacteria under control and extend the life of your system.
Partnering with a reliable water treatment specialist who understands your facility’s unique requirements is essential for ensuring optimal water quality and system efficiency.If you need help with your annual hypohalogenation, compliance paperwork, or cooling tower maintenance programs, contact the pros at Tower Water.
Take the first step towards safeguarding your cooling towers and HVAC systems against Legionella growth. To learn more about our water treatment services or to schedule a consultation, contact Tower Water at 212-518-6475 or visit our website today.
