How Can We Tell If Our Water Is Properly Sanitized
For years, many pool owners and service professionals used pH and chlorine levels to determine water quality. Through research, we learned that pH and chlorine residual alone are a poor indicator of pool sanitation. There are too many other factors that can affect the sanitizing power of chlorine. In recent years, the Gold Standard of water quality measurement has become ORP, or oxidation reduction potential. Water treatment professionals and health officials use ORP as an effective measure of sanitizer activity in pools and spas. Residential pool owners are also beginning to use this more accurate test to measure water quality.
Q How Does The Uv Pool Sanitizer Work
A. As pool water is circulated through the wet reactor chamber of the Ultra UV or the UV-C50 system, one or more UV-C germicidal lamps contained in the reactor expose the pool water containing bacteria, viruses, algae spores, pathogens and microorganisms, to the high intensity light waves emitted by the UV-C lamp. This causes the DNA of these pathogens to be disrupted and unable to multiply. Without the ability to multiply, these pathogens die and are rendered harmless. It is easy to understand that bacteria laden water enters the reactor, and drinking quality water leaves the reactor back to the pool. Consult the Technical link for a more technical explanation of this process. then do swimming pool UV systems). For more information .
Swimming Pool Sanitizers: The 7 Best Options To Consider
A swimming pool is quite unlike anything else that you may ever own.
If you dont clean your house, you can still live in it. If you dont clean your car, you can still drive it.
But if you dont clean your pool, you cant swim in it. At least you really shouldnt.
Cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your swimming pool and, unfortunately, keeping leaves out is only half the job.
There are also invisible pathogens and parasites that can make swimming in your pool unsafe. So how do you keep them out?
The answer is simple: To keep your pool safe for swimming, youre going to have to use at least one pool sanitizer.
At River Pools, we manufacture and install fiberglass pools for customers across North America. Having been in the pool industry for years, we’ve seen many sanitation methods in action and know how they work with the various inground pool types.
In this guide, were going to introduce seven pool sanitation options and give a brief overview of how they work so that you can decide which is right for your swimming pool.
Lets jump in.
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Q Will Ultraviolet Systems Inc Answer Questions From Homeowners
A. All questions concerning the Ultra UV system and the UV-C50 system can be directed to Ultraviolet Systems Inc. We will be happy to address any questions you might have concerning UV and Pool/spa sanitation. By all means contact Ultraviolet Pools by any of the methods indicated in any of the Contact Us links on this website. Ultraviolet Pools will be pleased to answer any product, technical, or general questions in the shortest time possible. Questions not involving the UV unit or regarding pond operation should be directed to the pond supplier who is an expert in those areas.
Safe And Natural Oxidation
Hydroxyl radicals are known as the detergent of the Earth because they are produced naturally in the atmosphere every day. They react with pollutants such as greenhouse gases in a way that cracks and decomposes them.
Hydroxyls produce no toxic byproducts and are completely safe even for pregnant women, children and the elderly. Unlike UV systems, which merely inactivate microorganisms, hydroxyl radicals actually oxidize pool water and completely destroy organic and inorganic contaminants at a cellular level.
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How Does An Ozone System Work
Ozone is the name for O3 , an inorganic molecule that can also work as a powerful oxidizer which means it removes electrons from other molecules. Simple organisms such as algae and bacteria are vulnerable to this damage. As the ozone steals electrons, the cell walls of these contaminants weaken, rupture, and ultimately die.
Ozone sanitation systems generate ozone by exposing oxygen to UV light or shocking it with electricity . Either method separates oxygen from molecules. This frees the single atoms of oxygen to bind to one another to create ozone molecules. The newly generated ozone is then pumped into the water and pulls electrons from any algae or bacteria that might be in your pool.
Zodiac Remote Pool Management System
If you are looking for an affordable control system for multiple devices the Zodiac AquaLink Z4 Controller is a great option. Zodiac remote pool and spa automation has come a long way in recent years especially with the upgrade and improvements made to the iAquaLink 2.0. The combination of both of these reliable products will provide complete automation of your pool at an affordable price.
If you want to keep things simple without the need for a control panel or remote system you might want to consider the . This new smart pump is fully operational on it’s own from any handheld device and ideal for pool owners that are want to keep things simple. It’s a great way to give yourself more control over pump run times and increase energy efficiency when operating your pool system.
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How Often Should I Run The Pump
The pump must run for the UV sanitizer to work. To be effective, the sanitizer should run 12 to 24 hours per day. This is where a dual-speed or a variable-speed pool pump can save you money by running the pump at its lowest speed. Certain states require pool owners to use a variable-speed pump.
You dont have to keep an eagle eye on the pump and the sanitizer to ensure both are running. Some UV pool sanitizers are equipped with a pressure-sensing switch. The switch can detect when the pump is running, turning on the sanitizer automatically. The switch also shuts off the sanitizer when the pump stops.
The Great Thing About The Salt Cell For Swimming Pools
Chlorine haters, take note: a salt chlorine generator is like cruise control for your in-ground pool. It keeps a low, even, safe level of chlorine all the time without the drawbacks of manually adding chlorine pool chemicals.
No chlorine tablets, liquid or granules to add, which means no human error. That means less skin and eye irritation than in traditional chlorine swimming pools.
Another advantage: A pool salt cell eliminates the problems caused by the inert materials in chlorine tablets.
If youve ever read the ingredients on your chlorine tablets, you noticed it said theyre 45 percent chlorine and 55 percent inert materials. Those inert ingredients mess with other variables in your pool.
For one thing, they lower the pH in your water. Did you ever notice in the pool supply aisle how pH decrease products are sold in little tubs, but pH increase products are sold in giant 20 lb. containers?
Salt water pool chlorine produces nearly neutral pH levels, so few additional chemicals are required to balance your pools pH levels.
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What You Need To Consider While Buying The Best Pool Automation System
Power Supply
You need to configure the power supply to the pool equipment to have full leverage of your water. That sounds unbelievably complex, but its a straightforward operation.
For buying the best pool automation system make sure that the device has a proper power supply.
Internet Connection
The most significant aspect that needs to be remembered for the automation system is that you will have a minimum download and upload speed of 3 Mbps with internet access.
If youre curious how to check internet speed then dont worry theres a speed tester accessible online that will let you know the internet speed.
Control hub
You ought to find a control platform until youre separated by internet access. The control center is the heart of the control systems in your room.
You should have an efficient central control hub that controls your pump, heater, and smart relays to ensure you have the automation system.
When choosing the best pool automation system be careful about the control hub.
Compatibility with voice-assistant apps
In certain homes, managing your pool cleaner or water features withyour voice is not just pleasant, its practically a requirement.
If you have a voice assist app, make sure that the control programyou choose fits with the systems you already have.
Check prices
If the products have been checked off, its time to start matching costs. In that step be diligent.
Go High along with full Smart Automation
Link the Pump to the Smartphone
A Review Of Saltwater Pools Ozonation And Uv Light
In a recent blog, 5 Reasons to Convert your Chlorine Pool to a Healthier Alternative, we recapped various research studies that point to dangerous side effects from chlorinated swimming pools.
So whats the good news? Research and innovation offer clear alternatives to red, burning eyes and dry, itchy skin. You can maintain your backyard resort without harsh chemicals by choosing from these 3 Ways to Sanitize Your PoolWithout the Typical Chlorine Risks.
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Installing A Uv Pool Sanitizer
UV sanitizers are safe to use in above-ground and in-ground pools. They wont damage concrete, fiberglass or vinyl surfaces, and theyre compatible with saltwater setups. During and after installation, there are no strict safety measures you have to take against exposure because the UV light cant penetrate through the sterilization chamber.
A UV sanitizer is installed in-line between the filter and the heater. Smaller ultraviolet lamps typically come with an outlet plug, but some larger ones are hardwired. If you decide to upgrade a UV sanitizer by adding more bulbs, doing so only takes a few minutes, and all the components necessary for installation should come with the UV assembly.
Remote Pool Management System
The remote pool management system is where the magic of being able to control all of your devices wirelessly from anywhere with an internet connection happens. Every device that is automated by the power center can be controlled with the push of a button on your smartphone, tablet or computer with free software and apps. Every pool automation system uses the latest software and apps that are updated periodically.
An issue with past systems is they were difficult to keep up to date and the latest software downloads were difficult if not impossible to access. The new intuitive software is a lot more convenient and can be updated either through a wireless USB port or online for free. The latest pool automation systems will stay updated and ready to go for years and will take you into the future of pool technology.
The installation of the wireless pool system has been made easier in recent years and takes only a few minutes to set up. The visual display is designed to be incredibly user-friendly and give the pool owner complete customization of just about everything.
In addition to individual controls you now have the option of saving themes that can be restored for special occasions or relaxing nights under the starts. Here are some other features of the latest and best remote pool management systems on the market.
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What Is The Best Way To Sanitize A Pool
Saltwater sanitation systems are the go-to favorite. They continuously generate all of the chlorine you will ever need. This means that your pool will not be subject to spikes in chlorine followed by subsequent drops. As such, the generated chlorine can near-permanently remain lower than the chlorine ppm of a freshly replenished chlorine pool.
Maintaining A Uv Light
Every ultraviolet bulb thats designed for a swimming pool is different in terms of wattage, pressure and flow rate. Some last for a year while others have a lifespan of 6 years, but most fall somewhere in between this range. Since UV lamps can still glow after theyve expired, we advise changing them on a set schedule.
Like all other components in your swimming pool, the UV sanitizer will require routine inspections and maintenance. About every four months, set aside 10 minutes to look over the UV sanitizer. Youll need a screwdriver and a wrench to access the quartz tube unless you have a quick-release model.
While you have the sanitizer open for inspection, utilize that opportunity to clean the quartz tube. A mixture of lemon juice and water or a mild descaler is all thats needed to get the job done. White vinegar can be used in the place of lemon juice if you prefer.
Once youre ready to close the pool for winter, there are only a few steps to take to prepare the UV sanitizer. If its a plug-in sanitizer, you can unplug, drain and remove the entire assembly, storing it inside until next pool season. If its a hardwired sanitizer, youll need to take out the bulb instead.
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Go With The Pool Sanitation System Neave Trusts
Neave Pools has pool service and maintenance professionals on staff who are trained in proper pool sanitizing techniques. Well advise you on how to best keep your pool water clean, safe and sparkling.
We offer safe chlorine and chemical alternatives for pool sanitation.
Neave Pools can develop a schedule based on what you need so that one of our certified professionals can become your personal pool chemist during the summer months, ensuring your pool water is of the highest quality.
If youre in Hudson Valley, call . Westchester, call . Cold Spring, call , and in Connecticut, call . Or fill out our contact form on this page, and well get in touch with you to schedule a complimentary swimming pool consultation.
Blue Works Pool Chlorine Generator Chlorinator
This is another product that will significantly ease your mission of sanitizing your pool. The price-quality ratio is a key attraction point especially to those of you who are on the lookout for a cost-efficient option.
The unit is recommended for pool areas of a maximum of 40,000 gallons. This usually addresses the needs of most customers.
Regarding the installation process, it is not too difficult to follow. You also have the alternative of adjusting the chlorine output, depending on your needs and preferences. Essentially, the chlorine output can be up to 2.1 pounds per day.
The installation process shouldnt cause too many problems, and youll most likely install the unit hassle-free. Thanks to the handy salt and temperature indicators, you can be sure that youll safeguard your equipment and extend its lifespan. You may also plug it in a 220V or 110V power outlet.
Some former clients have reported that this can be very efficient when it comes to sanitizing pools during hot weather.
Pros
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Ozone Pool Sanitation System
This pool system contains ozone, which is oxygen or O2 with an extra oxygen atom or O3. This O3 destroys and oxidizes microbes found in your pool such as bacteria, molds, and viruses. It also breaks down contaminants such as perspiration, urine, body oil, and cosmetics.
An ozone pool system may produce byproducts that are harmful to our health. To ensure that your pool water is clean and safe, you will need to regularly maintain the pH levels.
Pros
- Doesnt emit a strong odor
- Easy to install
- Creates various byproducts after reacting with organic contaminants
- May produce brominated compounds that are carcinogenic
- High-maintenance
- May be difficult to find a professional to install or repair
The Main Benefits Of Pool Salt Water Chlorinator Systems
It is difficult to make up your mind considering that you have so many options to choose from even when it comes to sanitizing your pool. But perhaps getting acquainted with the main pros and cons associated with salt water chlorinator systems is a good starting point. Here are some upsides.
- They dont require a lot of maintenance
This, indeed, can sound very appealing. When your spare time is limited and you want to make the best use of it, a salt water chlorinator system is a godsend. Distinct from chlorinated pools, this type of system sanitizes your pool so that you can use it freely without your personal involvement.
Does this sound appealing to you? If the answer is positive, perhaps its time you invest in such a unit. Instead of adding sanitizers to your pool to ensure that its safe for swimming, youll only have to conduct regular tests. These tests are usually related to the pH, alkalinity or the hardness of the water.
In addition to that, note that, typically, salt incorporates a range of sanitizers. This actually reduces the growth of algae. Therefore, it will necessitate less cleaning.
- They are free from harsh chemicals
While it is true that a saltwater pool will still contain chlorine, you wont have to include other sanitizing chemicals. In addition to that, you wont have to worry about your pool emitting a strong chlorine odor that is utterly unpleasant.
- More comfortable for swimmers
- Versatility
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Which Pool System Is Right For You
Claire McDaniel
If youre a first-time pool owner or upgrading your pool features, choosing a pool system is one of the most important decisions and investments youll make for your pool. With so many water treatment options available, its important to do your research and find a pool system that best fits your households needs.
The purpose of any pool water treatment system is to keep pool water clean, clear and safe. However, not all systems provide the same features, required maintenance, price, health benefits and water quality.
To help narrow down your pool system search, lets dive into some of the pros and cons of the five most common pool systems available: chlorine, salt water, UV, ozone and hydroxyl-based advanced oxidation, or AOP.