A practical guide to avoiding efficiency loss and health risks during peak summer use.

As summer temperatures climb, your cooling tower is working overtime, and so are the hidden problems that can compromise its performance. Two of the biggest culprits? Scaling and biofilm buildup. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to higher energy costs, reduced system efficiency, and even serious health risks like Legionella growth.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for, what causes these problems, and, most importantly, how to prevent them.

What Is Scaling?

Scaling is the buildup of minerals (like calcium carbonate) on heat transfer surfaces. It happens when water evaporates during the cooling process, leaving behind mineral deposits.

Common signs of scaling:

• Visible white or chalky buildup on internal surfaces
• Reduced water flow or pressure
• Drop in cooling efficiency
• Increased energy consumption

Why it matters: Even a thin layer of scale acts as an insulator, reducing heat transfer and forcing your system to work harder (and cost more).

What Is Biofilm?

Biofilm is a slimy layer of microorganisms that can form on surfaces where water and nutrients are present. It’s often invisible at first, but it poses serious risks.

Common signs of biofilm:

• Slippery surfaces in water basins
• Musty odors
• Corrosion or pitting on metal surfaces
• Decreased system performance

Why it matters: Biofilm not only reduces efficiency, it can harbor Legionella bacteria, which poses major health risks (especially in warm-weather months).

How to Spot the Warning Signs

Early detection is key. Here’s what your maintenance team should keep an eye on:

Problem	What to Look For	Impact
Scaling	White/chalky buildup, flow reduction	Insulated heat transfer, higher energy bills
Biofilm	Slime, odor, corrosion	Health hazard, corrosion, reduced performance

Regular inspections, water testing, and performance tracking are your first line of defense.

How to Prevent Scaling and Biofilm

Preventive maintenance is far less expensive than emergency repairs or shutdowns. Here’s what works:

1. Water Treatment Program

• Use chemical scale inhibitors and biocides.
• Maintain correct pH and conductivity levels.
• Work with a water treatment specialist to monitor chemistry regularly.

2. Regular Cleaning and Inspections

• Schedule mechanical cleanings at least twice a year (more often in summer).
• Flush basins and inspect fill media for buildup.
• Check drift eliminators, fans, and nozzles for signs of blockage or contamination.

3. Filtration and Side Stream Filtration

• Consider installing a filtration system to remove suspended solids.
• Side stream filtration targets a portion of recirculating water, improving clarity and reducing debris.

4. Automated Monitoring Systems

• Digital monitoring tools track key water quality metrics in real time.
• Alerts for deviations in temperature, pH, and biocide levels help you respond fast.

Why This Matters More in Summer

During peak summer operation, your cooling tower faces:

• Higher temperatures (which promote bacterial growth)
• Increased evaporation (which accelerates scale formation)
• Greater system loads (which amplify any efficiency loss)

This is the worst time for performance issues or system downtime. A proactive plan keeps your system running safely and efficiently when it matters most.

Need Help? Cooling Towers, LLC Has You Covered

Whether you’re seeing the early signs of buildup or just want to stay ahead of summer issues, Cooling Towers, LLC is your trusted partner. Our expert team offers:

• Preventive maintenance programs
• Emergency cleaning and descaling
• Custom recommendations
• System performance evaluations

Let us help you avoid costly shutdowns and keep your system in peak condition.

Contact us today to schedule a summer inspection or maintenance service.