Clogged water pipes due to biofilm in the pipes

Application: livestock farms, industry.

Biofilm is a slimy layer of bacteria and fungi that can form on the inside of pipes. As the pipes fill up, clogs occur and you may experience contaminated water. In this article, we discuss the causes of clogged water pipes due to biofilm and how to fix it.

Clogged water pipes due to biofilm: the causes

There are several factors that contribute to the formation of biofilm in pipes:

• Low water flow: when water flows slowly through the pipes, biofilm has more time to develop.
• High temperature: warm water provides perfect conditions for the growth of bacteria and fungi in water pipes.
• Mineral-rich water: when water contains high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, these can adhere to the inside of pipes and create a surface on which biofilm can adhere.
• Older pipes: older pipes can become damaged, creating cracks and holes where biofilm can settle.

Take water samples!

Do you regularly suffer from clogged water pipes due to these bacteria and fungi? If so, take a water sample and have it analyzed. This can give you insight into the contamination in your water. There are several methods for analyzing water samples, such as chemical and microbiological tests. These tests can detect if there is biofilm, as well as other contaminants. Based on the results that come from the analysis, you can then take measures to reduce or remove the contaminants. It is important to take water samples regularly. This allows you to respond in time to changes in the quality of your water. Blockages caused by biofilm will thus be prevented.

Solving clogged water pipes due to biofilm

Fortunately, there are several ways to solve clogged water pipes due to biofilm:

• Regular cleaning: by cleaning the pipes regularly, you can prevent the growth of biofilm. You can do this by spraying water under high pressure through the pipes and/or by working with disinfectants.
• Install a water softener: a water softener removes the minerals from the water, significantly reducing the chance of water pipes becoming clogged with biofilm.
• Replace old pipes: if pipes need replacement, it is wise to choose new, modern pipes that are more resistant.

Continuous disinfection with the Watter system

The Watter system is used on livestock farms to disinfect the animals' drinking water. In doing so, the system ensures that the growth of biofilm is prevented. The water in the pipes thus becomes microbiologically clean and free of blockages. Moreover, the quality of the water remains guaranteed, as the system also ensures the removal of undesirable bacteria such as E. Coli and Salmonella. Unlike conventional solutions, which usually only work at the time they are deployed, the Watter system works continuously and prevents blockages in water pipes due to biofilm in the long run.