Sample Collection

Where in the system should samples be taken?
Critical locations for diagnostic microbial and chemical testing vary depending on the type of system and other factors, such as the configuration of the system.  “Hot spots” (areas that have experienced problems such as blockages or failures) should always be included in any diagnostic assessment.  Inspections should also include areas that are likely to experience problems based on the type and configuration of the system.  We can assist you in identifying locations where testing should be done.  Contact us for more information.


How soon after sample collection should samples be tested for viable bacteria and chemical factors?
Tests for viable bacteria and chemical factors should be done immediately (within several minutes) after sample collection, regardless of the type of sample.  If this is not done, chemical parameters—such as oxygen, pH, and sulfide—may change.  Also, certain microbes—such as anaerobes and sulfate-reducing bacteria—in the sample may die, while low nutrient bacteria and other aerobes may multiply.  This is what led BTI Products to develop MICkits®.  They are easy to use and allow on-site testing that provides accurate and reliable results.


What type of samples should be tested?
The type of samples you test will largely be determined by the type and quantity of samples present in the system.  For example, if you are testing a dry/preaction FPS, you will typically find solid or scale materials to be more prevalent than water.  A general rule of thumb is to test samples from as close to any problem locations as possible (e.g., deposit/solid materials taken from the area of a corrosion or leak site).  In addition,  the type of sample you test will depend largely upon the kind of information you are wanting.  For example, if you want to know if source water is potentially contributing to problems in systems using this water, you may test the source water itself.  On the other hand, if you are wanting to know if MIC was involved at a leak site, you may opt to test solid/deposit materials directly overlying the leak site.