Legionella, the bacterium responsible for Legionnaires’ disease, thrives in stagnant water systems, posing a significant health risk in healthcare, residential, commercial, and industrial water systems. A common source of stagnant water is the Expansion Tank when incorrectly fitted to water supplies. Addressing this threat requires innovative solutions that prevent the conditions conducive to Legionella growth. One such solution is the Flow Thru device from Global Water Solutions, a technology specifically designed to enhance water circulation and reduce the risk of Legionella contamination.
1) Enhanced Water Circulation
At the core of the Flow Thru device’s effectiveness is its ability to maintain continuous water circulation within the system. Traditional water systems often suffer from dead zones or areas where water stagnates, creating an ideal environment for bacteria like Legionella to proliferate. By ensuring constant movement of water, the Flow Thru device disrupts these potential breeding grounds, significantly reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth.
2) Prevention of Water Stagnation
Stagnant water is a primary factor contributing to Legionella growth. The Flow Thru device is designed to eliminate or minimise stagnation by promoting regular turnover of water in the system. This constant turnover is crucial in ensuring that the water temperature remains consistent, further inhibiting the conditions that allow Legionella to multiply. The device effectively forces water into the expansion tank, ensuring fresh cold water is regularly flushed into the tank.
3) Improved System Hygiene
Installing a Flow Thru device also contributes to overall system hygiene. By keeping the water in motion and preventing stagnation, the device helps to reduce the build-up of biofilm – a slimy layer that can harbour bacteria and protect them from disinfection efforts. The reduction in biofilm not only lowers the risk of Legionella but also improves the efficiency of the entire water system, leading to cleaner water and reduced maintenance costs.
4) Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
The Flow Thru device operates without requiring additional energy input, making it a cost-effective solution for Legionella prevention. It integrates seamlessly with existing water systems, providing a passive method to improve water quality. By reducing the risk of Legionella, the device helps avoid the costly and disruptive consequences of an outbreak, such as system shutdowns and extensive cleaning.
5) Compliance with Health Regulations
As regulations around water system safety become increasingly stringent, the Flow Thru device provides a straightforward method to help ensure compliance. In the UK, this compliance is recommended by HSG274pt2. By mitigating the risk of Legionella, this technology supports adherence to health and safety standards, particularly in hospitals, hotels, and other public facilities where water safety is paramount.
In conclusion, the Flow Thru device from Global Water Solutions represents a proactive approach to minimising Legionella risk. Its ability to enhance water circulation, prevent stagnation, and improve overall system hygiene makes it a valuable tool in the fight against this dangerous bacterium, ensuring safer water systems and peace of mind.