Ulster Hospital Improves Heating System Reliability and Cuts Costs with IWTM-UK
Despite being a relatively new facility, Ulster Hospital was experiencing recurring water quality issues in its heating network. Routine monitoring revealed elevated levels of soluble iron, conductivity, and bacteria, exacerbated by breaches in the system. Chemical dosing, including shock treatments, provided only temporary relief, while equipment failures, including 4–5 control valves weekly, were costing an estimated £200 per unit plus fitting.
Challenges Identified
- Frequent failures of rubber anti-vibration bellows led to system breaches, diluting chemical doses and increasing costs.
- Anti-stagnation routines via the BMS were difficult to monitor and their effectiveness uncertain.
- Chemical flushing of the system was considered but would have required two operatives for seven months at a cost of £280,000 with no guaranteed success.
Implementing a Chemical-Free
Solution
Following recommendations from their mechanical consultant, the hospital opted for IWTM-UK’s Protector® and ProFill units.
- ProFill units filter water through a resin bed, producing alkaline, low-salt water with minimal oxygen.
- Protector units use sacrificial magnesium anodes to remove oxygen and aggressive salts, raise pH, and reduce conductivity. This creates a corrosion-resistant environment where bacteria cannot survive.
Results and Benefits
Since installation, Ulster Hospital has seen significant improvements:
- Cost savings – water treatment expenditure dropped from £60,000/year to £2,500/year, with a payback period of just 10 months.
- Reduced maintenance – weekly breakdowns attributable to corrosion are now avoided, freeing 10–12 days per month for more critical tasks.
- Zero impact on patient care – all operations were confined to plant rooms, avoiding disruption at ward level.
- Environmental benefits – eliminated over 2,500 litres of chemical use annually, and no system water had to be drained.
- Safer working environment – estates staff no longer handle hazardous chemicals, reducing COSHH risks.
In-house control – staff trained to manage PPMs and conduct water sampling, reducing reliance on third-party contractors.
"Protector and ProFill units are a process, not a magic wand. We had to trust the system, but the results speak for themselves," says the Estates Operations Manager.
Looking Ahead
The hospital has not only secured more reliable system performance but also aligned operations with sustainability targets and improved safety for its staff.
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