At Wyckomar Canada, we’re proud to stand on guard for your water. This year marks over 45 years of dedication to clean water solutions—not just here at home in Guelph, Ontario, but across the globe. As we reflect on our journey, we’re honoured to share a legacy of innovation, education, and service in the water treatment industry.
A Canadian Pioneer in UV Water Treatment
In the early days, Wyckomar emerged as one of Canada’s first manufacturers of UV (ultraviolet) water treatment systems for residential use. While UV disinfection technology had gained traction in other parts of the world, it was virtually unknown in the Canadian market. Wyckomar helped change that—introducing UV treatment to homes across Canada and North America, where it quickly became a sought-after solution.
This innovation was more than technical—it was a cultural shift, offering Canadian families a chemical-free alternative to traditional disinfection methods like chlorine. It was a perfect fit for the growing environmental awareness and “healthy living” movement of the time.
The 1980s: Growth, Education & Environmental Focus
From the late 1970s through the 1980s, Wyckomar entered a dynamic period of product development and customer education. As environmental consciousness rose, so did the desire for safer, more natural water treatment methods.
We focused heavily on informing homeowners about the many benefits of UV systems, emphasizing their effectiveness, simplicity, and sustainability. This era laid the groundwork for the trust we continue to build with our customers to this day.
Inventor, Visionary, Leader: Gerry Ottema
Wyckomar was founded by Mr. Gerry Ottema, a Canadian of Dutch heritage with a brilliant mind for invention and a deep passion for solving real-world problems. His commitment to clean water led him to develop several groundbreaking residential UV disinfection models—many of which are still in use today, trusted by early adopters around the world.
Gerry’s legacy continues to guide our mission: innovating thoughtfully and staying true to our values of safety, sustainability, and service.
Expanding Our Reach: From Homes to Industry
As demand grew, so did our product line. Through the 1980s and into the 2000s, we expanded our systems to meet the needs of commercial and industrial customers—from restaurants and care homes to processing plants and public facilities.
This evolution culminated in the early 2000s with the launch of our custom UV system design service, a turning point for both Wyckomar and the broader industry. Custom systems allowed businesses and organizations to benefit from tailored solutions that fit their exact water treatment needs—whether in the oil and gas sector, agriculture, food and beverage production, or even military applications.
Today, our custom UV systems are one of the most powerful drivers of our business, proving that smart, flexible solutions often outperform one-size-fits-all products.
A Commitment to Collaboration and Innovation
Throughout our history, we’ve formed strong partnerships with technology providers and industry experts to continue offering new, effective solutions to the common challenge of water quality. As innovation evolves, so does the Wyckomar product line—empowering customers to access cutting-edge systems that prioritize health, safety, and efficiency.
Looking Ahead: Educating and Empowering the Next Generation
We’re not just focused on systems—we’re committed to educating people about the importance of clean, safe water. Water truly is the essence of life, and we believe everyone deserves access to trustworthy, easy-to-understand information on how to protect it.
To support that mission, we’re excited to offer a free downloadable guide: “FAQs About Water”—a practical resource that answers the most common questions we hear from homeowners, families, and businesses alike. Click the download button below to learn everything from what’s in your water to how to choosing the right treatment system for your needs.
As we move forward, Wyckomar will continue to advocate for smarter water solutions and offer tools, guidance, and support for Canadian families and global industries alike.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Whether you’re new to Wyckomar or have been with us from the beginning, we’re honoured to support your path to safer, healthier water.
