I’ve been seeing a trend in our industry that’s got me a bit concerned. Some water treatment companies are trying to cover both bases—offering chemical treatments alongside non-chemical technologies like Copper Silver Ionization (CSI). At first glance, that sounds good, right? More options, more flexibility. But when you look closer, it raises some serious red flags about where their priorities really are.
Think about it: can a company that profits from selling chemicals really be committed to promoting non-chemical solutions? In theory, maybe. But in reality, it’s usually a conflict of interest. They might push CSI to get their foot in the door, but their long-term plan? Switching you to a chemical treatment that’s more profitable for them. This happens a lot, especially with the bigger, multinational players.
Why It Matters
We choose non-chemical options for a reason—better safety, fewer health risks, and a smaller environmental footprint. But if your provider has a vested interest in chemicals, are they really the right partner for your long-term safety goals?
I’ve seen it play out firsthand. Chemical companies use CSI as a “starter kit” to enter hospitals or hotels. But once they’re in, they start letting the CSI system slide, then slowly push for a switch back to chemicals. Suddenly, the facility is not only using chemicals again but also stuck in a pricey service contract they never wanted in the first place. It’s a classic bait-and-switch, and it’s everything we should be working against in this field.
Choose a Partner Who’s All-In
To me, choosing a water treatment provider should always come down to one thing: making sure your facility’s water is safe in the long run. If a company is truly focused on non-chemical solutions, you know their main concern is your facility’s health, not padding their sales with chemical contracts down the road.
It’s all about trust. When you work with a provider who’s not trying to sell chemicals on the side, you can trust that their recommendations are genuine. They’re not angling for a bigger payday; they’re in it for what’s best for your facility from day one. That’s the kind of partner you want when it comes to something as crucial as water safety. That’s what CSIPhoenix® and CSIDefender® are all about—real solutions from a company that’s 100% committed to non-chemical technologies.
How the Big Players Twist the Market
Unfortunately, some of the larger chemical companies go to great lengths to undermine CSI solutions. Some have even bought CSI manufacturers just to control the market. They’ll pose as “independent vendors,” but in reality, they own the brand and are the only ones selling it. It’s a monopoly in disguise.
With CSIPhoenix® and CSIDefender®, that’s not the case. We manufacture in Canada and sell through a network of independent, certified water management companies around the world. You’re working with a diverse team of experts—not a monopoly that’s trying to control the market and your water safety choices.
Why It’s Important
This isn’t just about having the right technology; it’s about the intention behind it. If your vendor has split loyalties, how can you be sure they’re really focused on what’s best for you? I’ve seen these chemical companies removed from projects for lack of competence and a poor understanding of how CSI actually works.
Ready for a Change?
If you’re looking for a Legionella water treatment provider who puts your facility’s safety and well-being above profit margins, get in touch. Let’s talk about how CSIPhoenix® and CSIDefender® can give you a long-term, non-chemical solution tailored to your needs.
You can reach out to me directly on LinkedIn®, and I’ll be happy to answer your questions. Don’t settle for quick sales tactics from a vendor with mixed interests—work with a partner who’s truly committed to protecting your facility.
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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