How to Detect and Address Water Quality Issues in HVAC Systems

Maintaining optimal water quality in commercial HVAC systems is crucial for ensuring efficiency, longevity, and the health of building occupants. Poor water quality can lead to a range of problems, including reduced efficiency, accelerated corrosion, blockages, mechanical failures, and even health risks. Therefore, maintaining the water quality in HVAC systems is not just a matter of system efficiency and longevity, but also a matter of health and safety. 

Common Water Quality Issues in HVAC Systems 

 

Several factors can compromise water quality in HVAC systems: 

  • Corrosion: Dissolved oxygen and other corrosive elements can deteriorate metal components, leading to leaks and system failures. 
  • Scaling: Mineral deposits, such as calcium and magnesium, can accumulate on heat exchange surfaces, reducing efficiency. 
  • Microbial Growth: Warm, stagnant water can promote the proliferation of bacteria, including Legionella, posing significant health risks. 
  • Sedimentation: Particles and debris can settle in the system, causing blockages and reducing flow rates.
Four common water quality issues in HVAC and plumbing systems are displayed in labeled sections with corresponding images: Corrosion - A set of corroded metal pipes with visible rust and deterioration. Scale Formation - A close-up of a pipe interior with heavy mineral scale buildup. Microbial Growth - A gloved hand holding a petri dish containing bacterial colonies. Sedimentation - A pipe surface covered in thick sediment deposits. Each section has a green border and bold white text describing the issue.

Detecting Water Quality Issues 

 

Early detection of water quality problems is essential to prevent extensive damage. Regular monitoring and testing can identify issues before they escalate:

  • Visual Inspections: Look for signs of corrosion, scaling, and sediment buildup in accessible components. 
  • Water Testing: Analyse water samples for pH levels, hardness, microbial presence, and other chemical properties. 
  • Continuous Monitoring Systems: Implement sensors and automated systems to detect changes in water quality in real-time. 

According to ASHRAE’s Water System Risk Management guidelines, regular monitoring and maintenance are critical in managing risks associated with building water systems.

Three images illustrating water quality issues and detection methods in HVAC and plumbing systems: Corroded Pipe - A rusted metal pipe with visible deterioration and flaking corrosion. Laboratory Testing - A person wearing yellow gloves and a white lab coat holding a conical flask containing a green liquid, indicating chemical water analysis. Contaminated Water Sample - A close-up of murky, greenish water with visible floating particles, suggesting microbial growth or sedimentation. Each image is framed with a green border and represents different aspects of water quality monitoring and management.

Addressing Water Quality Issues with VEXO International Solutions 

 

VEXO International offers a comprehensive range of products designed to maintain and restore water quality in commercial HVAC systems: 

  • X-POT Filtration System: This side-stream filtration unit captures biofilm, sludge, corrosion, and scale debris, ensuring the water remains clean without necessitating system shutdowns.  
  • Water Treatment Additives: VEXO provides a suite of additives, including descalers and inhibitors, that lift biofilm and sludge, dissolve scale, and passivate corrosion, thereby extending equipment lifespan.  

Implementing these solutions not only enhances system efficiency but also reduces energy consumption and the risk of unexpected breakdowns. 

VEXO X-POT Range with a dark green backdrop and white text saying "VEXO X-POT".
VEXO X-PO Additive Range with a dark green backdrop and white text saying "VEXO X-PO".

Technical Guidance from BSRIA and ASHRAE 

 

BSRIA provides comprehensive guidance on water treatment for closed heating and cooling systems, detailing common causes of water quality issues and their implications. 

BSRIA BG29/2021: This guide is the industry-standard document for the pre-commission cleaning of closed-loop pipework systems in commercial buildings. It provides best practices for cleaning and flushing HVAC systems before they are brought into operation, helping to prevent issues caused by corrosion, scale, and biological contamination 

BSRIA BG50/2021: This guide offers comprehensive guidance on ongoing water treatment for closed heating and cooling systems. It helps ensure that water quality is maintained throughout the lifecycle of an HVAC system, minimizing risks of corrosion, scale, and biological fouling. 

ASHRAE offers a comprehensive suite of standards and guidelines to assist in the management of risks associated with building water systems: 

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 514: This standard provides minimum requirements for managing physical, chemical, and microbial hazards in building water systems, offering a framework for developing water management programs from design through occupancy. 

ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 188: Focused on preventing Legionellosis, this standard establishes minimum legionellosis risk management requirements for building water systems, including guidance on conducting building surveys and developing water management programs. 

ASHRAE Guideline 12: Serving as a companion to Standard 188, this guideline offers detailed procedures for implementing effective water management plans, providing prescriptive guidance to control Legionella in building water systems. 

Maintaining high water quality in HVAC systems is essential for operational efficiency, equipment longevity, and occupant health. Regular monitoring, adherence to industry standards, and the implementation of specialised solutions from VEXO International can effectively address and prevent water quality issues in commercial heating and cooling systems. 

For more information on how VEXO International can assist in maintaining your HVAC system’s water quality, please contact our technical team. 
Green call-to-action button with bold white text reading 'BOOK A DEMO' and two stylized green arrows pointing to the right, indicating navigation or scheduling options.
Green call-to-action button with bold white text reading 'GET IN TOUCH' and two stylized green arrows pointing to the right, indicating navigation or contact options.

more blog posts

Scroll to Top