Industry: Office Block
Location: Benelux
Case Study
Overview
Legionella bacteria pose a significant risk to health when present in water systems, particularly in large commercial properties. Despite comprehensive water management programs, persistent problems with Legionella can still occur due to environmental factors, historical system conditions, or biofilm development.
This case study explores the successful implementation of Sidon Water’s Integro technology in a commercial office located in a major European city. The project highlights how this innovative solution addressed severe Legionella contamination while delivering additional benefits such as improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements.
Key Issues
The office building, located in a hard water area with a water hardness level of 271 PPM, experienced consistent issues with Legionella bacteria in the cold water system. Regular testing revealed levels between 400–650 CFU at the system’s endpoints, such as taps and showers. Independent Legionella prevention consultants had already implemented a thorough water management programme that included:
- Sediment filtration of the cold-water supply.
- Removal of dead legs.
- Regular system flushing.
- Descaling of taps and showerheads.
- Periodic chemical dosing and rinsing.
Despite these measures, the problem persisted. There is no cold water storage in the building, and although a water softener was in use, concerns were raised about its maintenance history. Water analysis and system inspections indicated that historical limescale build-up and the associated biofilm were likely contributing to the Legionella proliferation. The consultants sought a long-term solution to remove limescale deposits and biofilm effectively.
Our Solution
Sidon Water’s IntegroTM technology was identified as the optimal solution to address the issue. The IntegroTM uses advanced technology to safely dissolve limescale deposits back into solution, preventing biofilm development and inhibiting bacterial growth. The device was installed on the cold water main just before the booster pumps to target the entire water system.
During the initial weeks of operation, the system began to dissolve the limescale back into the water. This process caused a temporary spike in Legionella levels, reaching over 16,000 CFU after approximately four weeks. To mitigate this, regular maintenance was conducted, including cleaning showerheads and tap screens to remove dislodged biofilm and debris.
Over the following months, the dissolved limescale and biofilm were progressively flushed out of the system. Within 3–4 months, Legionella levels dropped below 100 CFU, achieving safe levels as defined by regulatory standards. The independent consultants monitoring the project signed it off as a complete success, and the IntegroTM solution remains in place as an ongoing secondary control measure.
Summary & Results
The installation of Sidon Water’s IntegroTM technology successfully resolved persistent Legionella contamination in the office building’s water system. The project highlights the importance of addressing underlying factors such as historical limescale build-up and biofilm, which can undermine traditional water management practices. Key outcomes of the project include:
- Effective Legionella Control: Legionella levels were reduced to safe levels of below 100 CFU within 3–4 months.
- Enhanced System Efficiency: Electric hot water cylinders now operate more efficiently.
- Maintenance Reduction: Showerheads no longer scale up, reducing descaling and cleaning time.
- Energy Savings: Lower energy consumption was observed in the building’s hot water systems.
This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of Sidon Water’s IntegroTM technology as a comprehensive and long-term solution for Legionella control, particularly in challenging environments with hard water and historical limescale issues. The office now benefits from a safer, more efficient, and lower-maintenance water system, underscoring the value of this innovative approach.
Contact Details
- Saltire Centre, Pentland Ct, Glenrothes KY6 2DA
- +44(0)1592 407807
- enquiries@sidonwater.com
