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Algae are common and normal inhabitants of surface waters. They differ from bacteria and fungi  in that they have an internal green pigment called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll enables them, in the presence of sunlight, to combine water and carbon-di-oxide to form sugars or related substances with the release of oxygen by the process called photosynthesis. Recirculating cooling water systems normally are plagued with algae growth to a greater extent than once through systems.

Iron bacteria are aerobic, fresh water organisms appearing in a variety of forms. These organisms can cause taste and odour problems in water supply. Iron bacteria have an oxidative metabolism. They oxidise Ferrous Iron (Fe2+) to Ferric Iron (Fe3+) and deposit it as hydrated iron oxide. Iron bacteria are of concern because of their tendency to develop rapidly and form masses of growth which usually adhere to the inside surfaces of pipes and tanks.

Total viable count is a method to determine the total number of aerobic bacteria present in a particular water sample or deposit.

Reagent grade chemicals should be used in the preparation of all solutions. These reagents should be prepared only in a well-equipped laboratory, under the supervision of an experienced chemist. It is advisable to purchase these solutions from a laboratory supply house if complete laboratory facilities are not available for their preparation.