Download Solving Common Water Problems With VWP

 Solving Common Water Problems With VWP (Vitalized Water Products) I.
Background II.
Common Water Problems III.
Water Symptoms IV.
Costs of Hard Water V.
VWP VI.
How does VWP Compare to Other Products VII.
References VIII.
Appendix 20 Water is essential for all known forms of life. Unfortunately many people experience a variety of problems associated with the water they use in everyday life, however, a new product has been developed using a frequency resonance technology that will eliminate or greatly reduce many of these common problems. I. BACKGROUND A Swedish scientist who saw a need for an environmentally friendly way to solve common water problems developed the VWP water processor in Sweden in 1998. The VWP uses a frequency resonance technology that releases electrons from water molecules. This unique technology, in addition to eliminating common hard water problems (calcium oxide, iron, copper, nitrate, nitrite, and manganese), eliminates scaling, minimizes chemicals (chlorine, etc.), reduces bacteria and produces oxygenated “living” water. The Swedish company, Vitalized Water Products AB, has a track record of successful installations since first offering its technology in such applications as; historic hotels, universities, homes, golf courses, farms, and Sweden’s largest poultry processor, Kronfagel AB (see appendix). Until this year VWP’s technology was only available to European and South American countries. II. COMMON WATER PROBLEMS Calcium Naturally occurring calcium is a large part of all water. It is the principle element that makes water "hard" and form lime scale deposits. Crystals of hard calcium will form on everything that hard water touches. Just as rain precipitates from the air, calcium precipitates from water. Heat, pressure changes and evaporation cause calcium to precipitate from the water and form scale. In addition, these particles of calcium contain an electrical charge causing them to be attracted to metallic surfaces. The insides of pipes, water heaters, boilers, coffee makers, icemakers and dishwashers provide the perfect surfaces to build lime scale. Lime scale does not limit itself to sinks, tubs, and toilet bowls alone. It also forms on clothes, skin, hair, and teeth. These crystals of calcium take up space in the water preventing soap and detergents from making suds. Hard calcium crystals can also be a skin irritant. Showering and shaving with hard water often creates skin irritation. 21 Calcium, in its natural hard form, is abrasive. It collects inside of pumps, causing their premature failure. Electric solenoid valves also collect hard calcium deposits, causing them to seize. Sprinkler heads can become clogged with calcium as well. In addition, sprinkler heads can wear out prematurely from the abrasion caused by hard calcium crystals. Calcium deposits are also a major factor in corrosion. The corrosive contaminates become trapped by calcium deposits, allowing them to corrode pipes, tanks, valves and water jackets. This corrosion reduces the life expectancy of all components using water. Lead Lead still can be found in some metal water taps, interior water pipes, or pipes connecting a house to the main water pipe in the street. Lead found in tap water usually comes from the corrosion of older fixtures or from the solder that connects pipes. When water sits in leaded pipes for several hours, lead can leach into the water supply. Too much lead in the human body can cause serious damage to the brain, kidneys, nervous system, and red blood cells. High levels of lead in tap water can cause health effects if the lead in the water enters the bloodstream and causes an elevated blood lead level. You have the greatest risk, even with short‐term exposure, if you are a young child, or you are pregnant. Copper Copper is a reddish metal that occurs naturally in rock, soil, water, sediment, and air. Its unique chemical and physical properties have made it one of the most commercially important metals. Since copper is easily shaped or molded, it is commonly used to make pennies, electrical wiring, and water pipes. Copper compounds are also used as an agricultural pesticide, and to control algae in lakes and reservoirs. Copper in our diet is necessary for good health. You eat and drink about 1,000 micrograms (1,000 ug) of copper per day. Drinking water normally contributes approximately 150 ug/day. Immediate effects from drinking water, which contains elevated levels of copper, include; * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Stomach cramps * Nausea 22 The seriousness of these effects can be expected to increase with increased copper levels or length of exposure. Children under one year of age are more sensitive to copper than adults. Long‐term exposure (more than 14 days) to copper in drinking water which is much higher than 1,000 ug/I has been found to cause kidney and liver damage in infants. Other persons who are highly susceptible to copper toxicity include people with liver damage or Wilson's disease. Nitrate, Nitrite Nitrate is one of the most common groundwater contaminants in rural areas. It is regulated in drinking water primarily because excess levels can cause methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby" disease. Although nitrate levels that affect infants do not pose a direct threat to older children and adults, they do indicate the possible presence of other more serious residential or agricultural contaminants, such as bacteria or pesticides. Nitrate in groundwater originates primarily from fertilizers, septic systems, and manure storage or spreading operations. Fertilizer nitrogen that is not taken up by plants, volatilized, or carried away by surface runoff leaches to the groundwater in the form of nitrate. This not only makes the nitrogen unavailable to crops, but also can elevate the concentration in groundwater above the levels acceptable for drinking water quality. Nitrogen from manure similarly can be lost from fields, barnyards, or storage locations. Septic systems also can elevate groundwater nitrate concentrations because they remove only half of the nitrogen in wastewater, leaving the remaining half to percolate to groundwater. Nitrite (NO2) can be formed from nitrate by a chemical process called reduction. Nitrate does not normally cause health problems unless it is reduced to nitrite. Iron/ Manganese Iron is one of the most troublesome elements in water supplies. Making up at least 5 percent of the earth’s crust, iron is one of the earth’s most plentiful resources. Rainwater as it infiltrates the soil and underlying geologic formations dissolves iron, causing it to seep into aquifers that serve as sources of groundwater for wells. Although present in drinking water, iron is seldom found at concentrations greater than 10 milligrams per liter (mg/l) or 10 parts per million. However, as little as 0.3 mg/l can cause water to turn a reddish brown color. Iron and manganese cause a variety of different nuisance problems. Iron and manganese can affect the flavor and color of food and water. In fact, they may react with the tannins in tea, coffee, and some alcoholic beverages to produce a black sludge, which will affect both the taste and appearance. Vegetables cooked in water containing excessive iron turn dark and look unappealing. Iron will typically cause reddish‐brown staining of laundry, porcelain, dishes, utensils, and glassware. Manganese causes a similar problem, resulting in a brownish‐black stain. Soaps and detergents do not remove these stains; in fact, using chlorine bleach and alkaline cleaners (such as sodium and carbonate) will intensify the stains. 23 When iron exists along with certain kinds of bacteria, problems can become even worse. To survive, the bacteria utilize the iron, leaving behind a reddish brown or yellow slime that can clog plumbing and cause an offensive odor. This slime or sludge is noticeable in the toilet tank when the lid is removed. Furthermore, the presence of iron and manganese in the water supply will lead to build up in pipelines, pressure tanks, water heaters, and water softeners. This buildup is associated with a decrease in the amount and pressure of available water and an increase in the cost of operating water‐
using appliances. Iron and manganese buildup can become expensive when it results in the replacement or repair of plumbing or water softening equipment. Chlorine Chlorine‐based disinfectants have played a critical role in protecting America's drinking water supply from waterborne infectious diseases for nearly a century. Chlorine‐based chemicals are the disinfectants of choice for treating drinking water. Chlorine is often the best choice for groundwater disinfection because it is cost‐effective, reliable, relatively simple, and measurable and provides a residual. This residual helps protect water from microbial contamination all the way to the tap, providing an indicator of contamination in the distribution system. Chlorine‐based disinfectants are the only disinfectants that provide this residual protection. However: "Drinking tap water that is chlorinated is hazardous if not deadly to your health." HEALTHY WATER FOR LONGER LIFE ‐ DR. MARTIN FOX "Known carcinogens are found in drinking water as a direct consequence of the practice of chlorination" MUNICIPAL ENVIROMENTAL RESEARCH LAB ‐ FRANCIS T. MAYO, DIRECTOR "Cancer risk among people drinking chlorinated water is 93% higher than among those whose water does not contain chlorine." US COUNCIL OF ENVIROMENTAL QUALITY 24 Bacteria Human illnesses such as typhoid, dysentery, chlorea, hepatitis, and giardiasis have been linked to drinking water contaminated by human waste. Coliform bacteria are common in the environment and are generally not harmful. However, the presence of these bacteria in drinking water is usually a result of a problem with the treatment system or the pipes, which distribute water, and indicates that the water may be contaminated with germs that can cause disease. Fecal Coliform and E coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause short‐term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. Cryptosporidium is a parasite that enters lakes and rivers through sewage and animal waste. It causes cryptosporidiosis, a mild gastrointestinal disease. However, the disease can be severe or fatal for people with severely weakened immune systems. EPA and CDC have prepared advice for those with severely compromised immune systems who are concerned about Cryptosporidium. Giardia lamblia is a parasite that enters lakes and rivers through sewage and animal waste. It causes gastrointestinal illness (e.g. diarrhea, vomiting, cramps). III. WATER SYMPTOMS While it is recommended to get a professional opinion, here are some common symptoms of water problems and their possible causes. Symptom Probable Cause 1. Soap Scum and/or Lime Scale Calcium/Magnesium 2. Washed Clothes look dingy/feel harsh Calcium/Magnesium 3. Spotty Dishes Calcium/Magnesium 4. Film on Shower Door Calcium/Magnesium 25 5. Dull Hair 6. Poor Water Flow Calcium/Magnesium Calcium/Magnesium Hydrogen Sulfide (same treatment as Iron and Manganese) 8. Reddish Stains on fixtures Iron 9. Reddish Stains on clothing Iron 10.Yellow or Orange water Iron 11. Metallic Taste Iron/Low PH Levels High PH Levels 12. Leaching of Copper and Lead from plumbing IV. COSTS OF HARD WATER Many people suffering from hard water do not realize exactly how many direct and indirect costs there are associated with this problem. There are great financial repercussions of having hard water and many natural resources are wasted. Lime scale Lime scale is one of the largest causes of wasted energy in the world. Its effects are as common as water itself. Wherever water is heated, evaporated, or undergoes a change in pressure, lime scale is deposited on surrounding surfaces. It collects on surfaces and fouls them with hardened crystal structures that prevent heat from being transferred from one surface to another. This hardened scale is very difficult to remove. Scale build‐up dramatically increases the energy cost for operating water heaters, boilers, heat exchangers, and plumbing systems in the home, commercial businesses, and industry. It is an excellent insulator causing inefficiency and wastes precious fuel. Because the effects of lime scale are so pervasive, it is difficult to accurately gage the costs of the problems created. Estimates are in excess of 100 billion dollars in the U.S. alone. This is probably a very conservative estimate. Gas Heaters The gas heaters operated and tested on hard water consumed 29.57% more Btu's of energy than the gas heaters operated and tested on softened water for the same amount of energy delivered. 26 Calcium forms scale in every water heater. It forms at the bottom of a water heater or boiler near the flame. The flame no longer can directly heat the water in the tank. It heats the calcium deposit at the bottom of the tank first. The heated calcium then heats the water. Studies of water heaters indicate that 1⁄4 inch of scale can increase fuel consumption by as much as 40%. In cases where the scale builds up to 1 inch, a 95% reduction in heat transfer results. Electric Water Heaters The electric heaters operated and tested on hard water consumed 21.68% more Btu's of energy than the electric water heaters operated and tested on softened water for the same amount of energy delivered. Calcium builds up on the outside of the heating element. Again, the calcium deposits are heated first, and the calcium then heats the water. The electrical heating element is then forced to work at a much higher temperature than its design parameters. It fails long before its time. In water that is high in calcium, heating elements in electric water heaters, boilers, and coffee makers can build an inch of hardened scale in just a few months. Plumbing & Pumps According to the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, 1/16‐inch of scale can increase energy consumption by 11 percent. Lime scale also collects inside of pipes, pumps and radiators, causing a greater resistance to the flow of water through the plumbing and heating system. This added resistance forces the pump to work harder in order to maintain water flow. The end result is higher consumption of electrical power to operate the pump and shortened life span of the pump. The Costs The economic costs are both direct and indirect. Radiators clogged with scale do not transfer heat well and consume more energy. Energy costs for operation of appliances, hot water heaters, boilers and pumping equipment are significantly increased. The amount of cleaners, soaps, and chemicals used for cleaning scale from drains adds to the costs. Other costs of lime scale are more deductive and often taken for granted. These include the cost of maintenance and replacement of all appliances that use water. From coffee makers, ice machines, water heaters, dishwashers, to hot water boilers used for heating, the costs for lime scale deposits are high. In a typical commercial establishment (like a restaurant) that uses hard water, it costs $810 per month to heat the water (based on $27 per day to heat 2,900 gallons). Water softening can save as much as 30 percent in energy ‐ a cost savings of $243 per month (more than $2,916 annually). Water softeners can also save up to 35 percent on detergent costs and up to 25 percent on downtime for 27 equipment maintenance repairs. Softer water also helps extend equipment lifespan, meaning less scrap disposal. ER Ratings Energy ratings listed on water heaters, boilers, dishwashers, etc. are misleading. They demonstrate the energy costs for one year. The dollar amounts referred to are for brand new unit that has no calcium deposits. Depending on the calcium content in the water these numbers can often be doubled in as little as six months. Environment Carbon dioxide is the end result of energy usage. The current concern over climate change indicates that regulations will be instituted around CO2 releases into the atmosphere. The more efficiently we use energy, the less carbon dioxide generated. In addition, the reduced dependence on strong chemicals such as lime scale dissolvers and drain cleaners will further ease the pollution level of our water supplies. V. VWP The VWP water processor is environmentally friendly. The VWP has no running costs, chemicals or additives and there are no replacements parts or waste. It is estimated that the VWP will last 250+ years. Also, the unit can be installed without the cost of a plumber. Benefits Soft water that still retains vital minerals has numerous benefits for you and your environment. * PREVENTS LIME SCALING * REMOVES CALCIUM DEPOSITS * CREATES A SOFT & SILKY WATER * MINIMIZES CHEMICALS * NO MAINTENANCE OR RUNNING COSTS * ELIMINATES BAD TASTE & ODOR 28 * REDUCES BACTERIA * BALANCES THE PH OF WATER Softer Skin and Healthier Looking Hair When water is softened, shampoo and conditioners lather more and work better. This creates softer hair and skin, which feels less oily and without residue and no need for skin lotions. Brighter Softer Clothes No more stains on clothes from iron and other metals. Clothes also become softer when hard calcium is eliminated. Use Less Detergent For every grain of water hardness, 2‐4% more detergent is used. Soft water can give a 50% savings of detergents and chemicals. Cleaner Dishes The calcium oxide is crystallized leaving dishes cleaner with less spotting. Better Tasting & Smelling Water The oxidation process reduces impurities and eliminates odor and bad taste from water; providing better drinking water. Healthier Lawns & Plants The intensified oxygenation and smaller softer forms of calcium help to increase plants intake of nutrients, giving plants larger healthier root systems, which augments their ability to withstand virus attacks. Lower Energy Costs Reduces scaling in boilers by 99%. This lowers energy costs because scale build up has an insulating effect that reduces the elements ability to heat up water. Cleaner pipes and heaters will result in better performance and become more efficient. 29 Easy Installation It can easily be installed yourself without a plumber. No need to cut pipes, just clamp on pipe and tighten one screw! No Running Costs The VWP Water Processor™ does not require power, chemicals or additives, filters or maintenance and has no moving parts. VI. HOW DOES VWP COMPARE TO OTHER PRODUCTS Salt Conditioners It has been recently discovered, that salt‐based systems pollute the fresh ground water supply during the back‐washing or regeneration process. This has caused many communities in the USA (primarily California) to ban salt‐based or automatic water softeners. In addition, they are very expensive and require extensive maintenance. The VWP Water Processor TM is environmentally friendly and water that is sent into nature is in a cleaner form. It also does not require a plumber to install, electricity, salt or maintenance. Reverse Osmosis Reverse Osmosis creates ultra‐clean water. Unfortunately, this ultra clean water is also missing minerals and useful trace elements normally found in healthy living water. Essentially the final product is sterile water. They also need expensive membranes replaced on a regular basis. The VWP Water Processor TM creates self­cleaning water that still retains essential minerals and elements, which are nutritionally healthier for humans, animals, fish and plants. The water processor also does not require professional installation, maintenance, electricity or additives. Filtration Systems Filters must be changed often to reduce the risk of bacteria growth and microorganisms. If not changed regularly, you may be consuming water that has a lower quality than before the filtration. Changing filters involves a continuing cost for replacement filters. 30 The VWP Water Processor TM has no replacement parts, requires no maintenance (no running costs) and generates no waste products. The system is also easy to install without the cost of a plumber. Electromagnetic Softeners Electrical devices require power, which have running costs and will stop working if the power goes out. They are also only primarily effective with calcium related problems. The VWP Water Processor TM is more effective for lime scale removal and also reduces bacteria and oxygenates the water. In addition, it does not require power and has no running costs or maintenance. VII. REFERENCES 1.
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www.nesc.wvu.edu/ndwc/articles/QandA/OTsp00_Q_A.pdf www.watersystemscouncil.org/vaiwebdocs/wscdocs/3531585ph.pdf http://www.waterandhealth.org/drinkingwater/groundwater.html http://www.epa.gov/OGWDW/lead/lead1.html http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/faq/leadinwater.html VIII. APPENDIX HOUSEHOLDS ­ VILLA GALV, TOMARP 17th century villa with well water. Installation: 1998 Problem: Brown colored and bad smelling water Cause: High levels of iron Solution: Numerous VWP200s on entire water installation. Benefits: Elimination of discoloration and odor. www.gardshotell.com ESTATES ­ UNIVERSITY OF KRISTIANSTAD College of higher learning in Kristianstad, Sweden. (200 000 m2) 31 Installation: 2001 Problem: Hard Water Cause: High level of minerals Solution: Two VWP300s were installed in the sub centrals in each house. Benefits: Effects of soft water. www.hkr.se HOTELS ­ FIRST HOTEL CHRISTIAN IV Famous historic hotel named after Danish King. (86 rooms) Installation: 2005 Problem: High heating costs Cause: Boiler scaling Solution: Installation of five VWP300s from Heat Exchanger, four VWP300s on third floor and four VWP300s on 4th floor. Benefits: Removal and prevention of 99% of boiler scaling. www.firsthotels.com HEAT EXCHANGERS ­ KRONFÅGEL – SWEDEN 4 x 800 kw heating exchangers (20m3 water pr hour) Installation: 2001 Problem: Excessive maintenance and high running costs Cause: Scaling in pipes and heat exchange system Solution: Total installation of seven VWP300s on system Benefits: Greater service intervals, elimination of scaling, improved efficiency www.kronfagel.se 32 CENTRAL HEATING ­ ALFA LAVAL ­ HUNGARY A leading provider of specialized products and engineered solutions. Installation: 1999 Problem: scaling on heat exchange plate, low energy efficiency Cause: hard water Solution: Installation of VWP300 Benefits: After 5 weeks heat exchange plate was clean (see picture) www.alfalaval.com HOTELS ­ FIRST HOTEL CHRISTIAN IV Famous historic hotel named after Danish King. (86 rooms) Installation: 2005 Problem: High heating costs Cause: Boiler scaling Solution: Installation of five VWP300s from Heat Exchanger, four VWP300s on third floor and four VWP300s on 4th floor. Benefits: Removal and prevention of 99% of boiler scaling www.firsthotels.com
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