How does water temperature affect disinfection efficacy?

Higher water temperatures generally enhance disinfection performance because they improve the rate of chemical reactions involved in the disinfection process. In particular, many disinfectants, such as chlorine, are more effective at elevated temperatures, which can increase the kinetic energy of molecules and lead to a more rapid and effective pathogen inactivation.

For example, disinfection processes involving chlorine are accelerated at warmer temperatures, thereby allowing for greater germicidal action within a shorter time frame. This enhanced reaction at higher temperatures can improve overall water quality and safety, making the disinfection process more efficient.

In contrast, lower temperatures may slow down these reactions and lead to inadequate pathogen removal, while the suggestion that water temperature has no effect ignores the well-documented influence temperature has on chemical kinetics and microbial viability.