When a water treatment system begins to present performance and efficiency issues, it’s important to act responsively and sustainably. In many cases, system refurbishment represents the best option. Here, Sally Griffiths-Parry at Veolia Water Technologies UK discusses the benefits of choosing refurbishment over replacement and why working with a water technologies provider can deliver real cost savings.
It’s important to deal with water treatment system issues as soon as they occur. Whether the system is reaching the end of its life cycle or just functioning less effectively than before, there are implications associated with delaying action. In this situation, many businesses are left with a choice between refurbishment or replacement. Particularly in times of economic uncertainty, it can sometimes be more advisable to embrace a refurbishment approach. In doing so, companies are able to extend the life-cycle of their systems, without having to compromise on quality or performance.
Refurbishment or Replacement?
Whilst some companies feel obliged to constantly replace poorly performing water treatment systems with new solutions, many practical benefits remain associated with system refurbishments. For one, system refurbishments can be far less disruptive to site activity and can enable companies to continue critical operations without the fear of lengthy delays. When working with a water technologies expert, such as Veolia Water Technologies, companies can even explore the possibility of refurbishment work outside of operational hours, which further mitigates the risk of on-site stoppages.
In addition to this shorter timeframe, opting for refurbishment can help companies avoid potentially expensive new-build treatment plants. What’s more, refurbishment works can be delivered through a phased approach, which enables the spreading of costs over a longer time period. As a result, refurbishment works often represent a much smaller financial risk than total replacements. Furthermore, by choosing to refurb, companies only pay to fix areas of their water treatment systems that need updating and aren’t letting viable components be discarded.
Finally, it’s worthwhile remembering that refurbishments can help companies to reduce their carbon footprint. To this end, refurbished solutions avoid the embodied carbon needed to manufacture entirely new components. As such, businesses looking to reduce raw material consumption and manufacturing emissions are best served by adopting this approach. Refurbished systems are able to improve existing energy efficiency performance, so when combined with the short-term embodied carbon savings, refurbishments often represent an environmentally conscious decision.
Free System Health Check
Given the often complex nature of water treatment systems, it can sometimes be tempting to push for replacement solutions, even when not needed. For companies that feel unsure about their best option, it’s advisable to contact a water technologies expert, such as Veolia Water Technologies, who will be able to offer a free system health check. The service helps businesses to make more informed choices with the guidance of a genuine industry expert. In turn, companies are able to optimise system performance and capacity, whilst still reducing operating and maintenance costs, as well as minimising the chance of downtime with a risk profile of on-site assets.
More than anything else, the system health check allows companies to better compare their options before making costly decisions. The service is non-obligatory and includes inspection and evaluation of all systems, including pre-treatment and make-up water. Following the check, businesses will be provided with proposals and recommendations tailored to their existing systems, plus the benefits they can expect in terms of water quality performance, reduced OPEX and CAPEX costs, as well as the peace of mind associated with minimised downtime and prevention of lost production.
Making a Decision
As a professional in the water sector, you’ll understand the varied nature of water treatment systems and the many different sectors they serve on a daily basis. Therefore, you’re also in a good position to understand the nuances that come with any decisions regarding the refurbishment or replacement of water treatment systems. When budgets are stretched, it may be more practical for companies to prioritise the refurbishment of systems and work towards a long-term plan for replacement. However, it ultimately depends on the specific requirements and circumstances of each site when deciding to either refurbish or replace water treatment technology, which is why partnering with an expert is key to ensuring you choose the right path for your business.
With our assistance, businesses across a wide range of industries and sectors have benefitted from access to high-performing, innovative replacement components to facilitate effective refurbishments, as well as the informed technical guidance of our team of expert engineers to conduct repairs. By partnering with a water technologies expert such as Veolia Water Technologies, companies using water treatment systems can put themselves in the best possible position to make the right choice.
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Author | Sally Griffiths-Parry
Sally has worked with services businesses since the start of her career in the HVAC industry. Since then she has worked mainly in account management and strategic transformation in the private and public sector. Sally joined Veolia Water Technologies in 2022 as a Senior Account and Programme Manager. Her focus now is on building and maintaining long term, mutually beneficial partnerships with key service customers. She is passionate about service innovation and sustainable development.
