Comparison of systems
BIFIPRO® works. One of the reasons BIFIPRO® works so reliably is the so-called Residual Effect. If a BIFIPRO® system would be inactive (for instance because power is interrrupted) it would take up to 6 weeks before the biofilm, and hence the Legionella bacteria, would return. If within that 6 week period, the BIFPRO® system starts operating normally again, there is no risk of a Legionella contamination.
Other techniques such as filtration or UV-light treatment do not have this benefit: even a short interruption can allow the Legionella bacteria to return. In addition biofilm can remain in existence in the watersystem in valves or thermostatic valves, such that a few bacteria entering the system can feed off the biofilm. Eventually a whole colony will form again, with the resulting risk of contamination.
Alternatives
| Parameter | Copper - Silver Ionisation | Chlorination | Flushing and heating | Chlorine Dioxyde | Ultra Violet Light(U.V.) |
| Concentration Needed | Cu = 0.2 - 0.8 mg/l, Ag = 0.02 - 0.08 mg/l | 2 - 4 mg/l | 80°C for30 minutes | 0.5 - 1 mg/l as CLO2 | 300 nm |
| Effectiveness documented | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Residual Effect | `Yes | No | No | More stable than Chlorine | No |
| Time before recolonisation | 6 - 12 weeks | 1 - 2 weeks | Varies | No information | Only locally effective |
| Temperature dependence | No influence | Desintegrates | Not applicable | Desintegrates | Only locally effective |
| pH dependence | Higher pH (>8,5) can influence effectiveness | Higher pH (>8,5) reduces effectiveness | No effect | No effect | No effect |
| Byproducts | None | Trihalomethanes (THMs) | None | Chlorate and Chlorite | None |
| Taste and smell | None | Strong | None | Minimal despite high concentrations | None |
| Corrosion | None | Very corrosive | Corrosive | Corrosive | None |
| Maintenance | Routine electrode inspection, Routine concentrate inspection | Regulation for transport, storage and handling in effect. Routine inspection of concentration. Regular inspection for corrosion | Scalding is possible, labour-intensive | Regulation for transport, storage and handling in effect. Routine inspection of concentration. Regular inspection for corrosion | Routine cleaning |
| Degradation of Effectiveness | None | Does not eliminate biofilm. Loses effectiveness at high pH. Desintegrates at high temperatures and degrades over distance. | Does not eliminate biofilm and recolonisation is possible. | Desintegrates at high temperatures and degrades over distance. | Only locally effective, does not work in shadows |
