Is Your Water Heating System at Risk?

Answer each of the following six questions to get a sense of how your water quality and maintenance practices may be impacting your commercial water heating system. Tally your points at the end to get your risk score!

Disclaimer: This quiz is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional water sampling and analysis. For accurate diagnosis and recommendations, consult a qualified water treatment or equipment professional.

Question 1: Do you know the hardness level of the water supplying your building?

A. Yes, and it’s been tested recently (1 point)

B. I have a general idea, but no recent test (2 points)

C. No idea at all (3 points)

Question 2: Have you noticed any of the following in your water heating system? (Select all that apply)

1. Scale buildup (2 points)

2. Corrosion or rust (3 points)

3. No idea at all (3 points)

4. Reduced efficiency or pressure (2 points)

5. Strange odors or discoloration (2 points)

6. None of the above (0 points)

Question 3: How often do you sample and analyze the water used in your system?

A. At least annually (1 point)

B. Only when there’s a problem (2 points)

C. We’ve never tested it (3 points)

Question 4: What type of building is this system serving?

A. Healthcare facility (3 points)

B. School or campus (3 points)

C. Commercial kitchen or foodservice (2 points)

D. Multi-family or residential (2 points)

E. Other (1 point)

Question 5: Does your system include any water treatment or filtration?

A. Yes, and it’s maintained regularly (1 point)

B. Yes, but unsure of maintenance schedule (2 points)

C. No water treatment or filtration in place (3 points)

Question 6: Have you ever reviewed water quality data with your equipment manufacturer or another party?

A. Yes, regularly (1 point)

B. Once or twice, but not regularly (2 points)

C. Never (3 points)

Your Risk Score

Add up your points from each question to calculate your total score. Use the guide below to interpret your results:

6–9 points: Low Risk – Your system appears to be in good shape, but ongoing monitoring is important.

10–14 points: Moderate Risk – There are signs that your system may be at risk. Consider conducting a water analysis soon.

15+ points: High Risk – Water quality or system symptoms indicate potential problems. Take immediate action to test and treat.

Take the next step to learn more about water quality sampling and analysis!

 

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