In recent years, there’s been a troubling trend in Legionella prevention: vendors promoting copper-silver ionization (CSI) units mounted on dollies as a quick-fix for emergencies. But as a microbiologist with over 30 years of experience and 22 years specifically in CSI technology, I can tell you this—these mobile setups are not a real solution. They’re actually adding more risk.
CSI Units Are Meant for Long-Term Prevention, Not Emergencies
Let’s be clear—CSI technology is a powerful tool for long-term Legionella prevention. Once a system is installed and calibrated correctly, it needs very little maintenance to keep running smoothly. But using a CSI unit for emergency response? It just doesn’t work. In a Legionella outbreak, where secondary water disinfection isn’t already in place, the only immediate solutions are thermal eradication or hyperchlorination. These methods bring the bacterial levels down quickly, giving the facility a few weeks—typically 3 to 6—to install a proper CSI system for continuous protection.
Unfortunately, some vendors try to push mobile CSI units as a rapid response fix. Many of these sellers, while knowledgeable about general water treatment, lack the in-depth expertise in Legionella control. Often, they’re just trained salespeople—focused on making a quick deal rather than addressing the real problem. A dolly-mounted system may seem like a clever idea, but it’s deeply flawed.
We Can Build Mobile Units—But Here’s Why We Don’t Recommend Them
At ProCare Water Treatment, we can certainly fabricate mobile (dolly) or skid-mounted copper-silver ionization units. But I’ll be honest—this setup is more about appearances than performance. Mobile units are usually pushed by competitors who can’t match the robust engineering behind our CSIPhoenix® systems. So, instead of solving the real issue, they package a superficial fix to make it look good.
Yes, mobile CSI units can be built easily, but they won’t perform like a properly installed and calibrated permanent system. They’re a sign that the vendor is trying to cover up engineering gaps rather than provide a real solution. Don’t be fooled by flashy setups—the real protection comes from permanent, well-designed installations.
The Halifax Case: A Costly Lesson in Misleading Solutions
A few years back, a government-owned housing complex in Halifax learned this the hard way. They opted for a CSI unit on a dolly, thinking they could move it around for emergencies and even share it between facilities. What they didn’t know? CSI systems aren’t meant for this. The mobile unit was connected with flexible hoses, which, over time, started to wear out. One hose burst, flooding a healthcare basement and causing thousands of dollars in damage. It’s a prime example of why mobile setups just don’t cut it.
The Risks of Using Mobile CSI Units
Let’s break down why mobile CSI units are a bad idea:
- Inconsistent Performance
CSI units need to be calibrated for specific water volumes and flow rates. When you throw a unit on a dolly, it usually lacks the multiple cells needed to cover larger systems. This means they’re almost always underpowered, offering spotty protection. Proper CSI works by saturating the biofilm, and that can take up to 30 days for full effect—something a mobile unit just can’t achieve. - Legal Liabilities
A well-installed CSI unit is calibrated to cover an entire water system. Moving it around on a dolly leaves parts of the system unprotected, which increases the risk of Legionella growth. That creates legal liabilities for facility owners and managers. - Plumbing Hazards
Most mobile units use flexible hoses. But these hoses wear out quickly and are prone to bursting. This has already caused severe flooding in healthcare facilities, putting operations and safety at risk. - Electrical and Mechanical Dangers
Mobile CSI units are electrical systems on wheels. This setup increases the risk of tipping over, short circuits, and mechanical failures—issues you don’t want to deal with in a high-risk environment. - Cross-Contamination
Moving a CSI unit around from place to place can spread contaminants rather than contain them. This risk is often overlooked by vendors pushing mobile setups. - False Sense of Security
Facility managers might think they’ve got Legionella under control with a mobile CSI unit, but these systems are often undersized and lack the power needed for full protection. The result? A dangerous sense of security. - Regulatory Issues
Many facilities, especially healthcare ones, need to meet strict “permanent” water safety regulations. Mobile units don’t meet these standards, leaving you open to compliance issues. - Improper Calibration
Once a CSI system is set up, it usually doesn’t need constant adjustments. But moving it disrupts calibration, leading to under- or over-ionization—both of which reduce effectiveness.
Permanent Systems Are the Only Real Solution
Copper-silver ionization is one of the best long-term tools for Legionella prevention, but only when installed permanently. Our systems, from 20A to 160A models, are engineered to provide stable, reliable protection. Mobile units, on the other hand, are always a stopgap—never a true solution.
When you need to address an emergency outbreak, the best approach is a quick but effective method like hyperchlorination or thermal eradication. These give you the time to install a proper CSI system for ongoing prevention.
Trust the Experts, Not Quick Fixes
At ProCare Water Treatment, we know how to handle Legionella. Yes, we can build mobile units, but we don’t push them because they just aren’t effective. We offer real solutions that last, backed by a deep understanding of the science and engineering behind them.
Don’t be fooled by vendors trying to sell you shortcuts. Trust ProCare, and choose a system that’s built to keep your facility safe for the long term.
Conclusion
Mobile CSI units might seem convenient, but they come with serious risks. Trust the experts with over 30 years of microbiology experience and a proven record in CSI technology. Don’t settle for quick fixes—choose a system engineered for real, long-term protection.
About the Author: Chris Gauthier is the founder, President, and Chief Science Officer of ProCare Water Treatment Inc., with over 30 years of experience in microbiology and Legionella prevention. For more than two decades, Chris has driven innovation in copper-silver ionization technology, establishing ProCare as a leader in water treatment solutions for healthcare, government, and commercial sectors. Known for his dedication to safety and results, Chris has worked hands-on with facilities across the globe, helping them achieve long-term Legionella prevention through proven, reliable technology.
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