Top 10 Microbial Risks in Water Systems -And How to Monitor Them Effectively

An Axpath Biotechnology Guide for Laboratories, Medical Facilities, Food Processors, and Industrial Plants in Southern California

Introduction

Water is a universal solvent—and a universal risk when contaminated. Whether used for cleaning, cooling, mixing, or consumption, water must be monitored for microbial safety. Axpath Biotechnology specializes in water system testing and microbial analysis using both rapid molecular and traditional culture methods. This guide highlights 10 common microbial risks in water systems and how routine testing can help you stay safe, compliant, and operational.

1.      Biofilm in Distribution Lines

Water pipes, especially those with low flow, are prone to biofilm buildup that can harbor bacteria and fungi. Swab and flush testing are needed to detect colonies.

2.      Bacterial Contamination in Storage Tanks

Improperly cleaned tanks support the growth of heterotrophs, coliforms, or Legionella. Routine tank sampling and ATP tests are recommended.

3.      Fungal Growth in Reservoirs

Spores from air or surroundings can land in stagnant tanks and grow. Mold testing ensures your storage remains safe.

4.      Legionella in Hot Water Systems

Warm water and dead legs encourage Legionella proliferation. Regular culture or PGR testing is essential for hospitals and large buildings.

5.      Contaminated Ice Machines

Bacteria and fungi can colonize tubing or trays in ice machines. Swab sampling and microbial culture are crucial, especially in food and healthcare settings.

6.      Low-Level Contamination Missed by Visual Checks

Turbidity or clarity doesn't indicate microbial safety. Total heterotrophic plate count and qPCR reveal what visual checks miss.

7.      Non-Compliant RO or DI Water

Water for lab and pharma use must meet strict microbial limits. Axpath offers microbial testing of RO/D1 systems to meet CLIA, CAP, and USP standards.

8.      Airborne Contamination of Open Tanks

Open basins or tanks exposed to facility air can collect microbes. Air and surface testing around water systems is advisable.

9.      Intermittent Spikes from Incoming Municipal Water

City water can occasionally carry high bacterial loads. Inlet testing helps monitor for these fluctuations.

10.      Irregular Testing Schedules

Failing to test regularly allows problems to go undetected until too late. Monthly or quarterly monitoring programs are key to prevention.

Axpath's Water Microbiology Testing Checklist

-      Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC)

-      Total coliforms and E. coli testing

-      Legionella detection (PCR or culture)

-      Mold and fungal culture from tanks and lines

-      RO/DI and potable water microbial screening

-      Biofilm and ATP surface testing

Ensure Water Safety with Axpath Testing

Axpath Biotechnology

Water System Microbiology Experts - Serving Laboratories, Hospitals, and Industry in Southern California