What is the effect of high levels of organic material in cooling tower water?

High levels of organic material in cooling tower water can lead to algal blooms, which occur when there is an abundant supply of nutrients and sunlight. Organic materials serve as a food source for algae, causing them to proliferate rapidly. This can create a number of operational problems for cooling systems.

Algal blooms can lead to several issues, such as decreased cooling efficiency because they can block water flow and reduce heat exchange efficiency. Additionally, they can contribute to biofouling, which can hinder equipment performance and lead to increased maintenance needs. The growth of algae can also create an unhealthy environment for the cooling system, affecting water quality and potentially leading to the formation of harmful byproducts.

The other options provided, while related to the effects of water quality, do not specifically address the consequences of increased organic material in the context of cooling tower operation as accurately as the issue of algal blooms does.