Algae growth in water coolers is primarily caused by three factors: moisture, sunlight, and nutrients. Cooling towers, which are open to the outside air, often allow outside microbes (nutrients for algae) and sunlight into the water, creating an ideal environment for algae to thrive. Algae growth can lead to health risks, such as the growth of Legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaire’s disease, a dangerous and potentially fatal illness. Additionally, algae growth can also hurt your cooling system’s efficiency, block screens and distribution decks, interfere with water flow, and drive up your cooling costs.
Technical Specification: Preventing Algae Growth in Water Coolers
To prevent algae growth in your water cooler, it’s recommended to follow these technical specifications:
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Regular Cleaning of Cooling Towers: Clean your cooling towers regularly, according to your manufacturer’s directions. This typically involves draining the tower, scrubbing the interior surfaces, and disinfecting the system.
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Effective Water Management Plan: Develop and follow an effective water management plan, which will outline when your cooling tower may be in need of extra cleaning. This plan should include regular testing for signs of algae, biofilm, or sediment buildup.
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Use of Chemicals: Use chemicals to prevent algae growth and/or kill existing algae. Some chemicals, such as chlorine, may be used in low amounts for extended periods as a preventive measure. Others, such as those that kill algae, may be used in short spurts or “shots” to eliminate any algae that has begun to form.
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Chlorine: Typically used at a concentration of 0.5-2 ppm (parts per million) to prevent algae growth.
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Algaecides: Chemicals like copper sulfate or quaternary ammonium compounds can be used to kill existing algae. Dosage typically ranges from 1-5 ppm, applied as a “shock” treatment.
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Bottle Covering: Use a fabric cover to ensure algae growth does not take place once the bottle is left directly in the path of sunlight.
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Vinegar Solution: Mix a vinegar solution of 1 tablespoon of vinegar per gallon of water and use it to clean the interior and exterior of the cooler regularly.
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Placement and Bottle Replacement: Place your dispenser in an area away from fluorescent lighting and replace empty water bottles immediately to prevent air contamination.
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Regular Maintenance: Regularly maintain your Lipsey water dispenser to ensure that all parts are clean and everything is running smoothly.
DIY: Cleaning and Maintaining a Water Cooler to Prevent Algae
To prevent algae growth in your water cooler, you can follow these DIY steps:
- Unplug the water dispenser and remove the water bottle.
- Drain all remaining water from the reservoir into a bucket.
- Fill the interior reservoir with a vinegar solution (1 tablespoon of vinegar per gallon of water) and let it set for about 3 minutes.
- Use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub away any build-up on the interior surfaces.
- Drain the solution into a bucket and rinse by filling the interior reservoir with clean water and emptying it through the faucets into a bucket five times.
- Use paper towels and the vinegar solution to wipe the exterior of the cooler along with the faucets.
- Place a new water bottle in the dispenser and allow it to fill the reservoir.
- Plug the unit back in and allow about 30 minutes for the water to cool off and heat up.
By following these technical specifications and DIY steps, you can effectively prevent algae growth in your water cooler, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your cooling system.
References:
– How to Prevent Algae Build-up in Water
– Green Algae in Your 18.9L Water Bottle: Here is What You Must Know
– Keeping Your Water Dispenser Clean
– Preventing Algae in Cooling Water Systems
– Bottle-fed Water Cooler Safety