Emerging Technologies in Hospital Water Filtration Systems in Tampa Bay, Florida

Sep 7, 20233 min read

Tampa Bay hospitals are implementing innovative water filtration systems

Hospitals in Tampa Bay are continually seeking innovative water filtration solutions to provide safe, clean water for patients and staff. Water quality is critical in healthcare facilities, where vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of illness from contaminants. Advances in filtration technology allow Tampa Bay hospitals to remove a wide range of potential pollutants from their water supply.

Removing Bacteria and Viruses with UV Disinfection

One of the top concerns for hospitals is eliminating disease-causing bacteria and viruses that may be present in municipal water sources. AquaGuard UV SYSTEM for Bacteria Removal uses ultraviolet light to disinfect water as it passes through the system, providing an effective barrier against pathogens. UV technology inactivates microorganisms by damaging their DNA so they cannot reproduce or infect. Implementing UV as part of a multi-barrier hospital water treatment approach provides an added layer of protection for patients.

Filtering Out Heavy Metals with Ozone Oxidation

Heavy metals like lead and mercury are sometimes detected in municipal water at low levels and can be harmful if allowed to accumulate. HydroClear Ozone Generator for Heavy Metals and Bacteria introduces ozone into the water supply to oxidize dissolved heavy metals into larger molecules that can then be filtered out. Ozone is also a strong disinfectant, so this process has the added benefit of killing bacteria and viruses. Hospitals using ozone generators can rest assured that dangerous heavy metals are being removed.

Removing Pesticides and Pharmaceuticals with Activated Carbon

Hospitals need to filter out trace pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other organic compounds that may be picked up from wastewater treatment plant discharge into source water. Granular activated carbon filters like the AquaCarbonGuard Catalytic Carbon Filter adsorb these microscopic contaminants through a process of chemical attraction. The contaminants attach onto the surface of carbon particles and are removed from the water. Activated carbon filtration is an important step in eliminating unregulated trace organics.

Protecting Sensitive Equipment with Water Softening

The hard minerals in Tampa Bay's municipal water supply can build up in piping and equipment, leading to reduced efficiency and damage over time. AquaLux Water Softener uses ion exchange technology to reduce hardness-causing calcium and magnesium, replacing them with sodium ions. By softening the water, scale buildup is prevented, helping sensitive dialysis machines, steam equipment, and other hospital gear run properly. Soft water also provides better lathering for hand washing.

Removing Sediment with Multimedia Filtration

Although municipal source water is pre-filtered, some particulate matter may still be present. A Whole House Filter System combines multiple media like sand, gravel, and carbon to trap any remaining sediment, rust particles, silt, or other debris in the water. These filters preserve flow rate and prevent larger particles from clogging up downstream hospital equipment. Multimedia filtration provides an important first line of defense.

Eliminating Bacteria with Chlorine Injection

Chlorine chemical injection following a Retention Tank allows precise dosing to maintain a reliable chlorine residual in the hospital water system. This provides ongoing disinfection against any pathogens that may be introduced after treatment, such as through leaks or backups. Chlorination secures the distribution system all the way to the point of use. Hospitals can confirm bacteria removal with periodic testing for heterotrophic plate counts.

Removing Salts and Ions with Reverse Osmosis

For specialized hospital applications like dialysis systems, medical labs, or laundry facilities, AquaRevive Reverse Osmosis System can be implemented. RO utilizes a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved salts, ions, proteins, sugars, and other minute contaminants from water through size exclusion. Reverse osmosis produces water of exceptional purity required for hospital equipment producing pharmaceuticals or other injectables.

Conclusion

Tampa Bay hospitals are raising the bar on water quality by utilizing innovative treatment technologies. UV, ozone, activated carbon, water softening, multimedia filtration, chlorine injection, and reverse osmosis each serve a vital role in producing clean, safe water free of pathogens, metals, organic chemicals, sediment, and salts. Patients undergoing dialysis or chemotherapy need assurance of the highest standards. By investing in advanced water filtration, Tampa Bay healthcare providers demonstrate their commitment to improving health outcomes.