Most business owners recognize the benefits of maintaining a quality system. Replacing old, energy-draining equipment with modern ENERGYSTAR rated equipment or switching from fluorescent to LEDs can increase your energy efficiency – and your bottom line. But did you know there could be some hidden gremlins, silently sabotaging your efforts behind the scenes? Here a few key things to know about potential water issues that could be affecting your efficiency efforts and what you can do to keep things flowing smoothly.
When H2O contamination overworks your HVAC
HVAC systems struggle to work efficiently when scale and biofilm contaminate the system. Did you know that every 0.03” layer of scale typically results in a 27% loss in system efficiency? In comparison, biofilm is four times more insulating than hard water scale, causing greater energy loss and increased health risks.
Brilliant Source Energy recently released two patented and proven HVAC maintenance systems. These systems are designed to clean up existing scale, prevent hard water scale from forming and mitigate operational concerns.
“The HydroPlex and BoilerPlex systems are the most complete HVAC maintenance systems I have found,” explains Thomas Lilly, business development manager, Brilliant Source Energy. “Being able to manage scale, corrosion, sanitation while filtering out solids they are maintenance and protection all in one”.
When particulates slowly break down your plumbing
Circulating particulates are a primary source of plumbing problems. Circulating particulates account for the majority of valve, seal and pump damage. And it can destroy over time by abrasion of plumbing and fouling valves, seals and strainers. Replacing plumbing systems can be costly. Repairing a 200 ton cooling tower can cost $80,000 while replacement can cost from $200,000 to $250,000.
It is natural to assume circulating particulates are an existing issue in most cooling towers, boilers and hot/chilled loop systems. However, an engineered filter systems, like Brilliant Source Energy’s HydroPlex system, can eliminate particulate contamination. In fact, the HydroPlex system includes a circulation pump and sweeper jets designed to drive particles toward the filter, removing particulates from 5 to 20 micron and larger. In addition, the system has a built-in corrosion monitor that can detect 0.040” corrosion. This additional layer of protection provides warning in time to correct the condition.
When bacteria attacks
One major water issue affecting your efficiency could stem from bacteria. Loose scale and collecting particles create ideal environments for bacteria growth. Bacteria can create highly acidic conditions, damaging critical components. Bacteria, such as legionella, are a deadly health concern for HVAC operators.
With copper and silver ionic disinfection, bacteria and legionella can be prevented and removed.
The bottom line
When all is said and done, water contamination could not only cause health and safety issues but it could also weaken your efficiency efforts and be a huge drain on your wallet. By implementing a strategic water integration solution, you could realize significant annual savings as well as:
– Eliminate costs associated with repair, replacement, water and energy waste and storing toxic chemicals
– Drastically increase service life of systems and equipment
– Free up labor dedicated to maintenance
For more information about what you can do to about the water issues affecting your efficiency and how to help your systems run contaminant-free, contact us at www.brilliantsourceenergy.com.
