The need to treat and disinfect water occurs frequently, regardless of the source. Water from rivers and lakes can often be contained by untreated discharges of wastewater. It is also possible for sewage to enter such water sources after rain storms. Even water from “clean” water wells can often contain harmful bacteria.

Most drinking water in commercial buildings goes through a disinfection cycle after arriving from the grid. This helps to prevent microbiological contamination from legionella, E.coli and other waterborne pathogens.

In order to properly disinfect water, it is necessary to eliminate 99.999% of all bacteria. Various methods are used to achieve this, each with advantages and disadvantages.

Chlorine is used in the form of either gas, a hypochlorite solution or electrolytically generated hypochlorite.

Chlorine dioxide is the most effective, however it has to be generated on site using chemicals. It has a long-lasting residual effect and is effective at removing biofilm.

UV radiation kills high levels of bacteria but is only effective at the moment the water is passing through the UV chamber. It has no residual effect.

Another way to remove bacteria is via filtration. Although effective, again it has no residual effect once the water has passed through.

A common method used within commercial buildings is pasteurisation. The effect is however very limited, it does not have the ability to remove biofilm and there is no residual.

At Prodose we have experience of working with all of these water treatment methods, and we approach them with chemical engineering knowledge.

We can help you find the best method of disinfection for your specific situation, taking into account variables such as the quality of your incoming water, the length of the system it passes through and the frequency and type of use.

Before you change methods of disinfection, or decide to keep on using the same one, it is worth exploring other options to see if your water processing can be made both safer and more cost-effective.