ICOM, the Industrial and Commercial Energy Association, has published its new Commercial Water Treatment Guide, in response to industry concerns of poor water treatment and conditioning in commercial heating systems.

The guide was officially launched on 28th March 2017 at Future Cities Catapult, Urban Innovation Centre, London, at an event sponsored by Adey Professional Heating Solutions, Fernox and Sentinel Performance Solutions Ltd.

ICOM director Ross Anderson said: “The consequences of inappropriate or non-existent water treatment can prove costly to rectify and give rise to arguments between equipment manufacturers and plant operators.

“The treatment of water in closed and open heating systems is essential for the avoidance of fouling, biofouling, corrosion and scale. These problems can result in energy wastage, poor system performance and the need for early replacement of heating system components.”

He continued: “Any installation must be thoroughly flushed and cleaned before it can be filled and used. ICOM’s comprehensive guide deals with all aspects of water treatment for commercial heating systems.

“It is intended as a document that can be read and understood by plant operators, engineers and personnel with limited or no knowledge of water treatment chemistry. It is also meant to help them understand what effect any water and its subsequent treatment will have on the heating system.

“By studying the contents and following the freely given advice, heating systems will operate more efficiently with less chance of failure,” Mr Anderson concluded.

The guide will be available at www.icom.org.uk shortly.