ENERGY SAVING
Preventing corrosion in closed-system HVAC: a crucial step in sustainable building strategy
The adoption of real-time monitoring for preventing corrosion in closed- circuit HVAC systems represents a transformative step in sustainable building practices. Highlighted in the updated BSRIA guidelines—BG29 2020 and BG50 2021—this approach has redefi ned industry best practices, off ering numerous benefi ts that extend beyond corrosion prevention. Steve Dawson from Guardian Water Treatment outlines how this innovative technology enhances building effi ciency and sustainability.
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n recent years, real-time corrosion monitoring has gained recognition as an essential tool for safeguarding closed-circuit HVAC systems.
Unlike traditional water condition checks, such as periodic sampling, continuous monitoring provides a comprehensive picture of a system’s health throughout its lifecycle—from pre-commissioning cleaning through to handover and long-term operation.
Traditional sampling methods, while valuable,
are inherently limited. They capture only a momentary snapshot of system conditions and fail to consistently detect critical precursors to corrosion, such as dissolved oxygen. Modern monitoring technologies address these gaps by continuously tracking key parameters like pH, pressure, temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels—each of which can signal corrosive
conditions. This proactive approach enables facilities managers (FMs), building services and maintenance teams to address potential issues before they escalate, mitigating the risk of leaks, equipment failure, and costly repairs. Furthermore, the ability to monitor systems 24/7
provides those responsible for buildings operation with a sense of assurance. The transparency of real-time data reduces the likelihood of unpleasant surprises lurking within pipework, safeguarding against corrosion-related system failures and ensuring uninterrupted operations.
Enhancing building sustainability Real-time monitoring doesn’t just prevent
corrosion—it serves as a cornerstone for broader energy effi ciency and sustainability goals. As the UK moves toward achieving Net Zero, the pressure to reduce energy consumption and operational costs has never been greater. Monitoring water systems in closed-circuit HVAC contributes to this eff ort in several critical ways: Improved energy effi ciency: The energy demands of cooling systems in the UK are signifi cant, accounting for nearly 10% of the nation’s total electricity usage—primarily driven by commercial buildings like offi ces, hospitals, and industrial facilities. In Central London alone, with over 283 million square feet of offi ce space, cooling represents a substantial share of energy
20 January 2025 •
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