ABSTRACT
Proper operation, maintenance, and monitoring of point-of-use/point-of-entry (POU/POE) systems is required in order for them to provide adequate performance. A major component of any POU/POE operation is monitoring. A monitoring program should be designed to assure that the equipment is functioning properly and to check the quality of the raw and treated water. Equipment installed in a community with water contaminated by chemicals potentially hazardous to health should be monitored more frequently than those installed in areas where contamination is of aesthetic concern. A well-defined maintenance program is essential for providing continuous quality water. The maintenance program may consist of an on demand contract with a local plumbing contractor, a point-of-use/point-of-entry service representative or dealer, a water service company, or a local water utility. For a distillation system, typical maintenance requirements include periodic cleaning of the evaporator and storage tanks and replacement of the heating element.
