Beat the Freeze

Equipment Considerations:

• Portable Bladder Pumps
• Dedicated Bladder Pumps
• PVC Bladder Pumps
• GeoSmart Dedicated Systems
• Controller Pro with Built In Compressor
• High Pressure Controllers

Winter is coming, and for those of us in the environmental monitoring field, that means facing the challenges of groundwater sampling in freezing temperatures. But don't let the cold weather put your projects on ice! Dedicated bladder pump systems, coupled with innovative freeze protection kits, offer a reliable solution for low-flow sampling year-round.

Low-Flow Sampling: A Quick Overview

Low-flow (or no-purge) sampling techniques are gaining popularity in groundwater monitoring. This approach minimizes disturbance to the well, providing more accurate and representative samples, especially for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Both electric submersible pumps and pneumatic bladder pumps can achieve the gentle, controlled flow rates required for this method but bladder pumps are often preferred.

Bladder Pumps and Winter Weather

While bladder pumps are excellent for low-flow sampling, they can be susceptible to freezing in cold climates. This is where freeze protection kits become essential. These kits are designed to prevent water from freezing and expanding within the pump's discharge line, which can cause damage to the equipment and disrupt sampling activities.

How Freeze Protection Kits Work

Freeze protection kits for bladder pumps typically include:

• An extra airline port: This is added to the wellhead and connects to most bladder pump controllers.
• A small tube: This runs alongside the airline and discharge line.
• A check valve and elbow: Located about 10 feet below the well cap, this assembly allows air to be blown through the discharge line, evacuating any residual water and preventing freezing.

Benefits of Freeze Protection Kits

• Year-round sampling: Collect samples even in the harshest winter conditions.
• Equipment protection: Prevent costly damage caused by freezing and expansion of water.
• Peace of mind: Ensure the integrity of your monitoring program, regardless of the weather.

Don't Let Winter Slow You Down

If you're using dedicated bladder pumps for low-flow groundwater sampling, investing in freeze protection kits is a smart move. Contact our team today to learn more about adding freeze protection to new bladder pump systems. We can help you choose the right equipment and ensure your sampling program continues smoothly throughout the year.

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