Analysis: Cooling towers must be properly maintained

COOLING towers should be cleaned and disinfected at least every six months.

Older towers, those in poor condition, those subject to environmental pollutants or any in “hard water” areas may require cleaning and disinfection more frequently.

Monitoring of the water for levels of biocide, pH, general microbiological activity etc should be carried out weekly, while other parameters are to be inspected monthly and some quarterly.

If, during any of these routine monitoring visits, the condition of the tower suggests that a clean is necessary, or if levels of bacteria exceed laid down limits, a clean and disinfection should be instigated.

Towers that are not properly maintained, not treated appropriately or even not installed and commissioned properly, can quickly and easily become a real threat to all those who might be exposed to water droplets leaving the tower.