January ASHRAE Lunch Meeting - Grand Rapids

January 20, 2026
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
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Courtyard - Downtown Grand Rapids
11 Monroe Avenue NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
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Topic:

Water Treatment Principles and Best Practices

This presentation explores the fundamentals of water and why not all water behaves the same in mechanical systems. It examines the causes of scale and corrosion, including their inverse relationship, and explains the importance of proper system cleaning for both new and existing installations. Attendees will learn what to look for during cleaning, why it is critical to system performance, and the problems that can arise when it is neglected. The session also reviews common glycol types, their intended uses, and the benefits of each. Finally, the presentation outlines what a healthy water or glycol loop should look like, emphasizing the major needs of closed-loop systems and why proactive prevention is far more effective than addressing issues as they occur.

Speaker:

Rudy Othmer, President, Enerco

Rudy completed his undergraduate studies at Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a focus on scale and corrosion inhibitors used in water treatment applications before earning his BS in Physics and Chemistry in 1998. Shortly after graduation, he joined the family business, Enerco Corporation, where he began his career in operations and the research laboratory. He later transitioned into working directly with current and prospective clients, specializing in troubleshooting heat transfer–related challenges. In addition to ongoing self-directed professional development, Rudy earned the Certified Water Technologist (CWT) credential by meeting the qualifications and passing the rigorous examination administered by the Association of Water Technologies. For the past six years, Rudy has served as Enerco’s Lead Technical Advisor and President.

Schedule:

11:30 am – 12:00 pm Social
12:00 pm – 01:00 pm Lunch
12:00 pm – 01:00 pm Program

Parking:

Parking is available in the ramp. Entry off Monroe Ave. south of the drop off. Request a validation voucher at lunch.

Continuing Education:

(1) CEH provided.

Questions to Sara Bergakker sara.bergakker@towerpinkster.com

Tickets

$30.00 Member Registration

$35.00 Non-Member Registration

$25.00 Students / Retirees / Lifetime Member Registration

$500.00 Happy Hour Sponsor

$1,200.00 Meal Sponsor