An outbreak this summer of Legionnaire’s disease in New York City cost the lives of 12 people. The tragedy led the New York City Council to pass legislation requiring quarterly inspections of cooling towers.
National Real Estate Investor points out that these inspections can save money as well as prevent sickness. Regular inspections of cooling towers, evaporative condensers and fluid coolers lead to repairs and adjustments that lower energy consumption by reducing stress on equipment. The reduction in stress also extends the life of the equipment.
The new laws in New York City require building owners to provide certification of that the equipment has been inspected, tested, cleaned and disinfected annually. Building owners face fines and even imprisonment if they don’t comply.
DNA Info reports that The Department of Buildings said that 4,991 buildings had registered towers as of the deadline of September 17. The department believes that the number represents most of the buildings with cooling towers in the city.