In the absence of chemical treatment, how often should a cooling tower be drained and replaced with fresh water?

The recommended practice for draining and replacing water in a cooling tower every one to two weeks accounts for both the maintenance of water quality and the prevention of bacterial growth, particularly Legionella, which is a concern in such systems. This frequent water change helps to minimize the buildup of minerals, contaminants, and organic matter that can lead to fouling and scaling within the cooling system.

In addition to ensuring optimal efficiency in cooling operations, regular replacement of water maintains the chemical balance and hygiene of the system, thus reducing health risks associated with stagnant water. It is important to adhere to these guidelines to uphold safety standards and ensure the cooling tower operates effectively.

Draining less frequently, such as every month or at intervals of six months, would not provide sufficient maintenance, allowing potentially harmful organisms to proliferate and increasing the risk of system inefficiency or failure. Thus, the practice of draining every one to two weeks is essential for optimizing performance and ensuring safety in cooling tower operations.