Legionella control: Efficient solutions with heat pumps and PURION UVC disinfection systems

Legionella control is a key issue for homeowners and building operators, as these water-borne bacteria pose a serious health risk. Legionella thrive in warm, humid environments and can cause serious respiratory diseases such as Legionnaires' disease in humans. These bacteria can multiply rapidly, particularly in hot water installations, as found in many buildings, if the water is not sufficiently disinfected. Compliance with legal regulations on water hygiene is therefore essential to protect the health of users.

Heat pumps: Efficient heat, but not always sufficient to combat legionella

Heat pumps are known for their energy-efficient and environmentally friendly method of providing hot water. They use the available heat from the environment to heat water to a comfortable temperature. However, heat pumps have a limitation: they often cannot reach the temperature required for thermal disinfection of water. Such disinfection, which requires at least 60 degrees Celsius, is necessary to kill legionella. Heat pumps can only reach these temperatures with considerably higher energy consumption, which increases operating costs and reduces energy efficiency.

UV-C disinfection: an effective supplement to legionella control

Here comes the PURION UVC disinfection system comes into play. These systems offer a reliable and chemical-free method of disinfecting water, regardless of the water temperature. UV-C light destroys the DNA of microorganisms, including legionella, preventing them from multiplying. A major advantage of UV-C disinfection is that it leaves no chemical residue and therefore does not affect the water quality.

Integration into existing systems

The PURION systems are designed so that they can be easily integrated into the circulation circuit downstream of the hot water tank. This enables continuous disinfection of the water without the need for additional heating. As a result, heat pumps can continue to be operated in an energy-efficient manner, while at the same time ensuring a high level of water hygiene. The combination of heat pumps and UV-C disinfection therefore offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for legionella control.

Advantages of UV-C disinfection with PURION

1. energy efficiency: UV-C disinfection systems require very little energy, making them an economical solution.
2. No chemical additives: Disinfection takes place without the use of chemicals, keeping the water clean and safe.
3. Easy installation: The systems are compact and can be easily integrated into existing hot water systems.
4. Long-term security: Regular disinfection prevents the formation of biofilms, which can serve as a breeding ground for legionella.

Long-term strategies for combating legionella

In addition to the technical equipment for disinfecting the water, preventative measures also play an important role in combating legionella. These include

1. Regular maintenance: Hot water systems should be regularly maintained and cleaned to prevent the build-up of deposits that can act as a breeding ground for legionella.
2. Systematic monitoring: Monitoring water temperature and water quality is essential to ensure that disinfection measures are effective.
3. Staff training: Building operators should ensure that relevant staff are aware of the risks of legionella and know how to operate disinfection equipment correctly.

Economic and environmental benefits

The combination of heat pumps and UV-C disinfection not only offers health benefits, but also economic and ecological ones. Operating costs can be reduced thanks to the efficient operation of the heat pumps and the low energy requirements of the UV-C systems. At the same time, the absence of chemical disinfectants helps to protect the environment.

Conclusion: Modern solutions for a well-known problem

Legionella control is an essential part of water hygiene in buildings. With the combination of energy-efficient heat pumps and modern UV-C disinfection systems such as those from PURION operators can implement a safe, cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. These technologies not only provide protection against legionella, but also contribute to the sustainable use of resources.