Hydronic and other water-based HVAC systems are highly efficient and commonly used to heat and cool large commercial and industrial properties. As water is an excellent conductor of heat and can store large amounts of thermal energy, it is critical to the successful operation of these systems.
The quality of the water within the HVAC network has a direct impact on performance. Continuous monitoring of vital parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen and chlorine enables managers to gain immediate insight into the health and integrity of their HVAC systems. Identifying early warning signs such as corrosion and scaling allows proactive management to avoid large-scale damage, energy waste and unnecessary downtime.
What Water Quality Parameters Are Key for HVAC Systems
Water quality monitoring is diverse, and a range of elements can be measured in every application where water is used, providing valuable information and insight into system integrity. Within the HVAC industry, the parameters below are increasingly important:
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Impacts of pH (Acidity/Alkalinity) on Hydronic & Chilled Water Systems
Monitoring pH is important for the control and prevention of corrosion and scaling. System water with a low pH value (acidic water) can cause oxidation of metal components, whereas water with a high pH value (alkaline water) can increase the presence of calcium carbonate that leads to scaling. Scale deposits and corrosion can affect the efficient transfer of heat, meaning the system must run for longer, significantly increasing energy consumption. By preventing damage from corrosion and scaling, pH monitoring helps to extend system longevity and reduce operating costs.
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Dissolved Oxygen (DO) & Corrosion Risk in Closed-Loop HVAC Systems
The presence of oxygen is the primary cause of corrosion in closed-loop systems. When oxygen enters the system, it reacts with metals causing rust, which can cause severe damage to components and lead to catastrophic failure. Increased levels of oxygen within the system can also provide optimal conditions for bacterial growth, potentially contributing to public health risks such as legionella. A steady DO measurement is an indicator of a healthy and well-maintained water system. By continually monitoring this parameter, managers can protect against corrosion, extend system lifespan and maintain a healthy environment for occupants and residents.
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Conductivity & Water Chemistry in Cooling Tower HVAC Systems
Conductivity measurement provides an indication of the total concentration of dissolved solids (salts, minerals and other ionic compounds) within the water. Water with high levels of conductivity is corrosive and can cause decay in industrial equipment and plumbing systems. Sudden spikes in conductivity could be the result of a leak, a loss of vital water treatment chemicals or contamination from an external source. Monitoring this parameter in real-time and detecting these events in their formative stages is important in preventing conductivity from reaching dangerously high levels and causing serious damage to HVAC systems.
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Turbidity & Water Cleanliness in HVAC Cooling Towers
Turbidity focuses on the optical characteristics (clarity and cloudiness) of water and measures the presence of suspended solids. Tracking turbidity within a building provides an overview of the health of the water, with elevated levels suggesting poor quality. High turbidity readings would suggest that water has become contaminated with solids such as rust, dirt and organic matter. These can build up on system components, causing fouling and degradation that can reduce efficiency and increase operating costs, and microbial growth that can contribute to legionella. Monitoring turbidity enables managers to keep the water in their systems clean and free from contaminants, improving optimization and complying with health and safety regulations.
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Chlorine & Microbial Control in HVAC Cooling Tower Water Treatment
As a powerful biocide, chlorine is frequently used within HVAC systems to control microbial growth and keep systems clean. Chlorine helps to prevent the formation of biofilm, a substance that can cause the build-up of scale, creating blockages that prevent water from flowing freely and reduce the system’s ability to effectively transfer heat. Biofilm can also harbor bacteria that can contaminate the water and subsequent cooled air, posing a serious health risk to building occupants. Continuous monitoring of chlorine verifies that adequate levels are always available to control pathogens, enabling improved system performance and compliance with public health regulations.
Water Quality Monitoring Solutions for HVAC Applications
Continuous evaluation of the above parameters provides real-time, reliable data, giving a valuable insight into system health to optimize performance. Through the BlueEdge™ portfolio, Badger Meter offers a range of fully customizable water quality monitoring systems for the HVAC industry. Our leading-edge solutions include the latest digital technology, incorporating highly accurate monitors, transmitters, terminals and software that can be deployed within building networks, turning measurements into actionable data almost instantaneously.
Multiparameter Water Quality Monitoring for HVAC Systems
The MetriNet Multiparameter Water Quality Monitor is one such system. Designed to detect subtle changes in water quality before they lead to costly damage, this specialized, ultra-low powered monitoring system offers flexible configurations to meet the needs of HVAC systems. Using industry-leading M-Node Smart Sensors, the MetriNet system is able to track pivotal HVAC parameters, making it ideal for monitoring water quality in building networks. Compatible with a range of terminals and controllers, this solution delivers a comprehensive overview of system health through the provision of live, real-time data.
Chlorine Storage & Gas Safety Monitoring in Water-Treated HVAC Networks
For HVAC systems where chlorine is used as a biocide, Badger Meter offers a range of gas detection solutions that can be used alongside our water quality monitors. Technology such as the leading-edge GasSens F12D Toxic Gas Detector can be installed into chemical storage rooms and throughout building networks to give immediate notification of a leak or spill, delivering additional safety protocols and providing peace of mind for managers and building occupants.
Final Thoughts on Water Quality & HVAC Operational Efficiency
Efficient and reliable water quality monitoring is essential to the successful operation of HVAC systems and increasingly, solutions to measure vital parameters are being incorporated into building management systems. With the addition of technologies such as the MetriNet system, building owners can create intelligent, smart-water networks that are designed to optimize operations and reduce operating costs. Real-time monitoring provides the tools and data visibility to protect HVAC systems from damage and degradation while maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations, delivering safe systems for a sustainable future.
Prefer data at a glance? See our HVAC parameter infographic for a quick breakdown of what each measurement reveals.
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