The use of benchtop lab water purification systems – common mistakes to avoid.

In laboratory operations, benchtop water purification systems play a crucial role in ensuring reliable and accurate results. There can be significant variances in the outcome of experiments due to even the slightest impurity in ordinary water, jeopardising the validity of the research. Therefore, the proper use and routine maintenance of these systems are essential for optimal performance.

This blog focuses on highlighting common errors that can occur when using benchtop water purification systems. It also includes information on how to avoid these mistakes and maintain high levels of water quality. The goal is to help lab personnel develop their understanding of how to improve their system operation by avoiding these common pitfalls, such as not monitoring water quality regularly, not performing regular maintenance, and not using the appropriate feed water.

1. Failure to maintain the system properly

Using benchtop lab water purification systems without regularly maintaining them is one of the biggest mistakes. A filter change can easily be forgotten, and a system can easily accumulate contaminants. A simple way to avoid this scenario is having a maintenance schedule which includes timely filter changes, system cleaning and periodic inspection of the unit’s ‘treatment components’

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to ensure that your system is operating properly and that you are receiving high quality lab-grade water.

2. Assuming the purification system and carbon filters can handle any water input

There is a common misconception that a benchtop water purification system can handle any type of water. However, poor feed water quality or high chlorine levels can lead to frequent consumable replacements and increased maintenance costs. For instance, in larger more complex buildings, if the water distribution pipework is prone to biological contamination, additional chlorine may be added by the facilities team to mitigate the biological threat.

This in turn can have a significant impact on the life of carbon filters intended to protect Reverse Osmosis membranes in bench-top water purification systems. Chlorine escape from a carbon filter can permanently damage an RO membrane making them inefficient and will result in reduced capacity in any post RO deionisation incurring   unnecessary operational cost for your lab. If feed water quality is monitored regularly, this can be avoided.

3. Choosing an unfavourable location for the system

The environment in which the benchtop system will be installed is crucial: you should take this into consideration. Exposure to heat, dust, humidity, and other environmental factors can hamper the performance of the purification system. Make sure the purification system is not placed near windows or in direct sunlight as UV light promotes the growth of bacteria, algae, and other organisms in transparent parts of the system, contaminating the purified water and causing inaccurate results.

Sunlight can cause materials to expand, while cooling leads to contraction. Water purification systems exposed to direct sunlight often experience repeated expansion and contraction, which can cause leaks as components overheat. Additionally, if motors and PCBs overheat and can’t dissipate heat effectively from their casings, they may be damaged.

Furthermore, UV exposure can deteriorate plastic and rubber parts, making them brittle and prone to failure.

4. Not monitoring purified water quality regularly

It is common to assume that benchtop water purifiers will always produce high-quality water. In the event that carbon filters run over their exchange capacity, the system may degrade, resulting in noticeably impaired water quality.

By regularly monitoring key water quality parameters, such as resistivity or conductivity, and TOC, you can avoid this. Make use of the monitoring features built into many modern systems to ensure consistent results and maintain the integrity of your research. Non-compliance with water quality standards threatens the credibility and approval of critical scientific research.

5. Leaving water in the system when not in use

When not in use for extended periods of time, water in the purification system can cause contamination and degradation. In stagnant water, bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms grow, compromising internal components and creating biofilm build-up. As a result, not only would the purity of the water be affected, but also the efficiency and lifespan of filters, membranes, and other components. The system should be drained, filters/cartridges removed, and open pipe connections plugged prior to prolonged periods of inactivity.

Upon recommissioning install fresh cartridges, filters and RO membranes in order to achieve optimal performance and water purity. Ensure that you know the process for draining your equipment from your lab water system manufacturer.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your benchtop water purification system operators efficiently and effectively, protecting the integrity of your research and maintaining the proper functioning of your lab equipment. 

Benchtop lab water purification systems and Purite’s expertise

Specifically designed for laboratories, our benchtop water purification systems are developed, manufactured, and customised to meet the unique needs of your lab’s specific applications, delivering high-quality lab-grade water through advanced technologies like reverse osmosis, deionization, distillation, EDI, and UV light. Check out our informative blog on lab water purification systems for a deeper understanding of our benchtop lab units – https://purite.com/understanding-lab-water-purification-systems/

We provide comprehensive technical support, training, and aftermarket services to ensure that your investment yields maximum results. Our Benchtop Lab Water Purification Systems can produce Type 1 and Type 2 lab-pure water, with resistances ranging from 1.22 megohm to 18.2 megohm. Get in touch with us and let us help you meet your laboratory’s water purification needs.