Frequently Asked Questions

The frequency of Legionella risk assessments can vary depending on several factors, including the type of water systems in place, the size and complexity of the systems, and the risk profile of the premises. In general, it is recommended to carry out Legionella risk assessments on a regular basis to ensure the safety of water systems. We would recommend that a risk assessment is carried out annually.

It’s important to note that Legionella risk assessments should be carried out by competent professionals or organizations with expertise in water systems and Legionella prevention. Additionally, the specific regulations and guidelines regarding Legionella risk assessments can vary by country and region, so it’s essential to be aware of and comply with local regulations in Ireland.

You can learn more about our Risk Assessments here https://www.aquachem.ie/watertreatment/legoinellariskassessment/

The specific tests conducted can vary depending on the type of industrial activity, the potential pollutants involved, and local regulations. However, some common water sampling tests carried out in industrial facilities in Ireland may include:

Microbiological Analysis:

• Coliforms

• E. Coli

• TVC

• Legionella

• Pseudomonas

Metals and Trace Elements Analysis:

• Heavy Metals: Testing for the presence of toxic heavy metals like lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic.

• Trace Elements: Assessing the concentration of trace elements like iron, copper, and zinc, which can impact water quality.

Water temperature plays a crucial role in controlling the growth of bacteria in water storage. Generally, there is a temperature range known as the “danger zone” where bacteria thrive and multiply most rapidly

This temperature range is typically between 20°C and 40°C. To prevent bacterial growth and ensure the safety of stored water, it’s important to keep the water either below or above this danger zone, depending on the specific circumstances:

• Below 20°C: Keeping water at or below this temperature inhibits the growth of most bacteria. Refrigeration is an effective way to achieve this temperature range for drinking water or food storage.

• Above 40°C: Water that is consistently maintained at temperatures above this, is generally considered safe from bacterial growth. This high temperature effectively kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria. Boiling water is a common method to achieve this temperature for purposes like sterilizing water.

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water treatment process that purifies water by using a semipermeable membrane to remove impurities.

In RO, water is forced through a special membrane that contains tiny pores. These pores are so small that they allow only water molecules to pass through while blocking larger contaminants like minerals, salts, and most other impurities. This process effectively separates clean, purified water from the concentrated impurities, resulting in two streams: one with clean, filtered water and another with the concentrated waste (called brine or reject water).

RO is highly effective in removing a wide range of contaminants, making it a popular method for producing clean and safe drinking water, as well as for various industrial and commercial applications.

In summary, reverse osmosis works by using a semipermeable membrane to selectively filter out impurities, leaving behind clean and purified water. It is a versatile and efficient water treatment technology widely used for improving water quality in various settings.

For a more detailed look you can see here https://www.aquachem.ie/blog-2/what-is-reverse-osmosis-and-how-is-it-used-in-water-treatment/

pH adjustment in water treatment is of paramount importance due to its multifaceted significance.

It enhances treatment processes like coagulation and disinfection, prevents corrosion and scaling in infrastructure, and ensures chemical treatments are effective.

Maintaining the right pH range also safeguards public health by providing safe, palatable drinking water and reduces environmental impacts by complying with discharge regulations.

In essence, pH adjustment plays a pivotal role in optimizing water quality, treatment efficiency, and the sustainability of water treatment processes. The ideal pH level for water can vary depending on its intended use and local regulations, but here are some general guidelines:

• Drinking Water: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a pH range for drinking water between 6.5 and 8.5. This range is considered safe and acceptable for human consumption. However, many municipal water supplies aim for a slightly alkaline pH level within this range, typically around 7 to 8, as it is often considered more palatable.

Energy savings can be achieved through water treatment by implementing efficient practices and technologies in various processes. Here’s a summarized overview:

• Improved Efficiency in Heating and Cooling Systems: Scaling and sediment buildup in boilers, cooling towers, and heat exchangers can decrease their efficiency, leading to higher energy consumption. Proper water treatment, including descaling and fouling prevention, ensures these systems operate optimally, reducing energy costs.

• Reduced Pumping Costs: Clean, well-treated water is easier to pump than water with impurities. By maintaining water quality through effective treatment, less energy is needed to transport water within a facility, resulting in lower pumping costs.

• Optimized Chemical Usage: Water treatment chemicals, such as corrosion inhibitors and flocculants, can be expensive. Effective water treatment ensures chemicals are used efficiently, reducing chemical costs and the energy needed for their application.

• Energy Recovery: Some water treatment processes, like reverse osmosis or distillation, generate concentrated brine or high-temperature waste streams. Energy recovery systems can capture and reuse this energy, reducing the overall energy consumption of the treatment process.

• Process Optimization: Water treatment can involve various processes like filtration, aeration, and disinfection. Optimizing these processes, including the use of energy-efficient equipment and control systems, can significantly reduce energy consumption.

• Cooling Water Management: Properly treated cooling water can prevent fouling and corrosion in cooling systems, ensuring they operate efficiently. This reduces the energy required for cooling and prolongs equipment life.

In summary, energy savings in water treatment can be realized through improved efficiency in heating and cooling systems, reduced pumping costs, optimized chemical usage, energy recovery, process optimization, efficient wastewater treatment, and effective cooling water management. These measures not only save energy but also contribute to cost savings and environmental sustainability.

The length of cleaning and disinfecting takes depends on the size of your tank and how easy access is. In some cases this process can take 3 hours or 6 hours – again this depends on the tank size.

In short yes. You must have a hard copy of your Legionella Log Book on hand for any professionals or auditors. IT is also just as crucial that the log book is up to date and all inspections and water temperature logs are being carried out and logged.

If an inspector comes on site and can not access the book all your hard work will have been for nothing as they will deem it to have not been done.

Solid chemicals often offer advantages over liquid chemicals in water treatment for several reasons

• Firstly, solid chemicals typically have a longer shelf life and are more stable during storage and transportation compared to their liquid counterparts.
• This stability reduces the risk of chemical degradation, spillage, and safety hazards, making them easier to handle and store.
• Solid chemicals are also usually more concentrated, requiring less storage space and minimizing the need for frequent replenishment, reducing logistical complexities and costs.
• Secondly, solid chemicals can be easier to dose accurately into water treatment systems. They can be pre-packaged in convenient forms, such as tablets, granules, or powder, allowing for precise control of chemical dosing rates. In contrast, liquid chemicals often require specialized dosing equipment and can be more challenging to meter accurately.
• Additionally, solid chemicals can be applied directly to the treatment process, minimizing the need for dilution and reducing water volumes, which can be especially important in systems with limited space or stringent discharge requirements.

Overall, solid chemicals offer practical advantages in terms of handling, storage, and precise dosing, making them a preferred choice in many water treatment applications. For more benefits of Solid Chemicals check out our website: https://www.aquachem.ie/chemical/

Industrial Services refers to sites which have cooling towers, steam boilers and closed systems. These systems require specialist attention and treatment as there are a number of issues which can occur in them.

Building Servies includes water sampling, cleaning and disinfecting of cold water storage tanks and Legionella Risk Assessments. Site which are often classes as building services sites often include office blocks and hotels.

While they can be separate services we find many sites combine both services, especially when it comes to industrial sites wanting routine sampling and risk assessments carried out.

Yes. We are always looking out for new, innovative technology coming to the marked to provide our customers with a more efficient water system. Some of the more recent technology we have brought forward include the following;

• Dosafil: A Smart, safe, simple, efficient flushing system for closed systems https://www.aquachem.ie/dosafildevices/
  

• HASL Corrosion monitoring: Online corrosion monitoring system https://www.aquachem.ie/corrosiondetection/
  

• OZONE: Transforming rainwater into drinking water. Chemical free, fresh tasting, recycled water https://www.aquachem.ie/ozone/
  

• Steam Trap Monitoring: Real time, steam leak detection https://www.aquachem.ie/waterblog/steamtraps/
  

• Opseyes: Get water sample results, on site, in less than 10 mins

Preventing corrosion and scale buildup in equipment is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of industrial systems. Two key strategies are often employed:

Water Treatment: Proper water treatment is fundamental to prevent corrosion and scale. This involves controlling the quality of the water that comes into contact with equipment. Filtration and softening processes can remove particulate matter and excess minerals that contribute to scaling. Additionally, adjusting the water’s pH to a suitable level can help prevent both corrosion and scale formation. Corrosion inhibitors can be added to the water to create a protective layer on equipment surfaces, reducing the risk of corrosion. Regular monitoring of water quality and treatment effectiveness is crucial to ensure ongoing protection.

Maintenance and Inspection: Regular maintenance and inspection of equipment are essential to prevent corrosion and scale buildup. This includes cleaning and descaling procedures to remove existing scale deposits. Inspections should identify any signs of corrosion, such as rust or pitting, and corrective actions should be taken promptly. Coatings, such as paint or specialized anti-corrosion coatings, can be applied to equipment surfaces as an additional protective measure. Properly designed and maintained cooling and heat exchange systems can minimize scale formation by ensuring adequate flow rates and water quality.

You can read in the following blogs how to help prevent the build up and scale in your equipment