Adding chlorine to a water supply might seem unusual. However, it is a very useful and standard practice. State and national governments require it as a procedure. This applies to both new and existing water mains. Let’s see why water main chlorination is so important for the water industry.
What is Mains Chlorination?
Mains chlorination is a reliable method for disinfecting water systems, eliminating harmful pathogens like Pseudomonas and Legionella. It ensures the quality of drinking water. Water companies, such as Anglian Water, require new mains pipes to be chlorinated before connecting them to their system. A detailed chlorination certificate and microbiological analysis must be provided.
We offer a complete water chlorination service across the UK, including lab testing for new mains connections, with water samples verified by an independent UKAS accredited laboratory.
Types of Mains Injection and Pipe Work Chlorination
Internal Water Supply
Mains injection or pipe work chlorination disinfects and prepares a building’s internal hot and cold water system. It includes all pipes and storage tanks. This service ensures systems safely provide drinking water and shower water.
External / New Mains Water Supply
When new water mains are installed at a site, the local water authority requires flushing and disinfecting the pipes according to their water authority specifications.
What is the BS8558:2015 Chlorination Certificate?
BS 8558:2015 is the British standard for chlorination. It details guidelines and procedures for disinfecting water systems safely and effectively. This standard ensures compliance with water quality and safety in water treatment.
PD855468 Certificate
PD 855468:2015 offers guidance on water supply systems, focusing on cleaning, flushing, and disinfecting domestic water systems to control microbial growth and remove debris. Comfort Services Group performs this work to industry-leading standards and provides the necessary disinfection certificate.
Right Time for Mains Chlorination for Better Water Hygiene
The timing of mains chlorination is crucial for water hygiene. It should be done when new pipes are installed, or existing ones are repaired. This helps prevent contamination and ensures safe drinking water. Regular chlorination maintains water quality and safeguards public health. Proper scheduling and execution of chlorination are vital for effective water system management.
When is a Pipe Work Disinfection Required?
Here are situations where action is needed in a water system:
- During new building installations as part of commissioning.
- After major changes or extensions to the water system.
- When regular tests show high levels of harmful bacteria like Legionella or Pseudomonas.
- If there’s a suspicion of contamination in the system.
- When the system hasn’t been used regularly, and pipes haven’t been flushed often.
Methods of Disinfection
Chlorine dioxide and hydrogen peroxide are both strong disinfectants. Each has situations where one is preferred over the other. They are effective oxidising agents for disinfecting water and work well against many microorganisms. The choice depends on your water quality and budget.
Chlorine Dioxide
Chlorine dioxide is a powerful biocide and sanitiser used in water treatment to eliminate microorganisms and contaminants. It effectively removes biofilm, iron, and manganese. Though it contains chlorine, it does not create harmful by-products like chlorine does. The compound disrupts proteins and enzymes in microorganisms, killing them. Chlorine dioxide is favoured over chlorine and hydrogen peroxide due to its targeted reactions and minimal taste or odour issues.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a common household sanitiser and bleaching agent. It’s used in municipal water treatments to remove iron, manganese, and sulphides, control taste and odour, and oxidise pollutants. In medical settings, it’s a disinfectant and antiseptic. It serves as a bleaching agent in industries and treats wastewater. Though more effective than chlorine, hydrogen peroxide is costlier and lacks a lasting residual, making it less common for drinking water treatment.
Who Can Chlorinate My Pipework? Call Comfort Services Group for the Best Chlorination Services
Comfort Services Group specialises in water treatment and testing for water supply networks like Anglian Water, Thames Water, Affinity Water, and Essex & Suffolk Water. New mains chlorination is crucial to maintain quality drinking water. Water companies won’t connect new mains pipes until they are chlorinated and a thorough chlorination certificate and microbiological analysis are provided. We offer full chlorination and pressure testing services for all new mains connections, whether for large commercial buildings or smaller domestic pipework.
FAQs
What are the methods of the chlorination process?
Water chlorination involves six main methods: plain chlorination, pre-chlorination, post-chlorination, double or multiple chlorinations, break-point chlorination, and super chlorination. The purpose of the water determines the best method.
What is the standard for chlorination?
BS 8558:2015 is the recognised British standard for chlorination. It outlines safe and effective procedures for disinfecting water systems. This standard ensures compliance with water quality and safety in treatment practices.
What is the simple water chlorination method?
Simple chlorination involves adding a small amount of chlorine solution to the source. Then, circulate the chlorine through the water distribution system, leaving it in situ for a predetermined time based on water pH, re-checking the chlorine levels ensuring they haven’t dropped below minimal levels, then post flushing to remove.
We are proud to share our experience and knowledge and take pride in offering this to all clients when required. If I, or one of the team can help then please schedule a meeting via the office or get in touch via one of our social media platforms.
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