Supplying clean, pure drinking water from multiple spring sources is more complex than it seems. Traditional lab tests provide only snapshots, missing source-specific variability and rapid microbial changes. In this case study, WWZ shows how real-time microbial monitoring delivers continuous insight across four spring lines, revealing hidden differences in baseline levels, stability, and rainfall response — enabling faster action and stronger water quality control.

Continuous monitoring is essential to meet water quality standards at the point of use consistently. Traditional growth-based methods, such as heterotrophic plate count (HPC), must be conducted in a lab, are tedious and take several days.

These strategies can also be deployed in real water distribution networks. BactoSense proved itself to be a valuable tool for bacterial monitoring in drinking water network surveillance, thanks to its quick measurement cycles, compact size, and rugged housing, which are suitable for harsh environments.

Modern measurement technology, chlorine pumps and shut-off valves are incorporated in an innovative system that guarantees a high-quality water supply. It is based on rain event detection and flow cytometry. Villages can now be selectively alerted in real-time when risks of contamination occur in their supply area.

The maintenance of complex and ageing drinking water distribution networks is a significant challenge for water utilities. Careful...

In 2018, severe floods in South-West Iceland led to contamination of some water production wells. Veitur Water Utilities, the largest provider in the region, implemented BactoSense to address the threat and ensure consumer safety.