In light of the changing restrictions, we would like to update you on how we are continuing to support you through these challenging times.

In preventing outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease, HydroChem is an essential service provider and will continue to offer onsite service and support under the stage 3 & 4 restrictions in place across Victoria (under the public health exemption). Permitted Worker Permits are being issued to our workers accordingly.

Our head office and manufacturing facilities are continuing operations from Braeside with minimal workers on-site. Our account management and service support teams are working from home and available via their mobiles or email. Alternatively, you can call the office to be put in touch with them directly, 03 9190 0100.

If you have any COVID19 clearance questionnaires to be completed or you would like a copy of our COVID Safe Plan please contact your account manager or the office.

Hibernation of Mechanical Plant

We understand that many operations are currently closed or continuing at low load. This raises the question as to water treatment and maintenance of mechanical plant. There are several factors to consider before shutting down mechanical plant for more than 24 hours.

In most circumstances, the preference will be to keep the plant ‘ticking over’ for 1-2 hours per day (hibernation), so that plant and equipment is not damaged, and start-up can be instigated quickly. There are several risks associated with draining down and refilling systems:

  • Whether the plant can be fully drained and kept dry
  • Stagnant water risks associated with corrosion and Legionnaires’ disease
  • Potential for pumps and mechanical plant to seize if not operating
  • Regulatory and AS 3666 requirements for cooling tower clean prior to start-up and associated labour shortages if all cooling tower owners are starting up at the same time

Please find a full discussion here.

If you are considering hibernation of plant and equipment, please speak to your HydroChem account manager about the best way to achieve this outcome. There may be some actions required by your service technician to accommodate this process.

We Continue to Operate

If you have any queries, please speak to your account manager or call our office on 03 9190 0100 or 1300 558 788.

Stay safe,

Kind regards

Mike Lenton, CEO