How to Control Algae Build Up in Air Scrubbers

Air scrubbers remove particulates, gases and other contaminants from the air in a building. The air scrubbers draw air from the environment and pass it through a series of filters to remove the contaminants, and then send the air back to the building. Often the air scrubbers are combined with cooling and heating towers for a total environmental control system. When the cooling towers are located outdoors, the water in the towers is exposed to sunlight and algae can result. The algae, if not controlled, decreases the efficiency of the unit and can get into the filtered air.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Contact the manufacturer of your air system and ask if they sell covers for the system. If you cover the water basin and block out the sunlight, algae will not form.

   • 2

     Use a biocide. Add a biocide to the water to control the algae growth. If the basin can't be covered, increase the frequency of the biocide treatment. Install an automatic daily feeder if it is feasible.

   • 3

     Clean your system thoroughly at least once a year. Clean the system twice yearly if the algae is especially bad. Power wash the unit and scrub all surfaces.