Final answer:
Evaporative cooling towers need regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth, which can cause health issues and reduce system efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evaporative type cooling towers must be regularly cleaned and chemically treated to inhibit the growth of bacteria. The warm and humid environment inside a cooling tower is a suitable breeding ground for bacteria, including Legionella, which can cause health issues. Regular maintenance helps to prevent the growth of these organisms, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the cooling system. Other issues such as rust, scale, and fungus can also occur, but the primary concern is bacteria, which can form biofilms that reduce heat transfer efficiency and may pose health risks.