How To Choose The Right Pool Sanitation System For Your Pool

When it comes to keeping your pool clean and safe, you need the right sanitization system. There are many options out there for you to consider, but it is important to choose the right system for your pool, budget and lifestyle. Some of the most common sanitation systems include chlorine, salt water, ozone and UV light. They all work to reduce the amount of chemicals you need to keep your pool clean and sanitized.

Chlorine

Chlorine is a widely used pool sanitation system because it’s inexpensive, easy to use and kills bacteria and algae. But chlorine can also produce a lot of byproducts, like chloramines and trihalomethanes that cause skin and eye irritation to swimmers. So if you’re a chlorine allergy sufferer, or want to save money by not using the harsh chemical, you might need to consider a different system. You can look for a hydroxyl-based AOP (Activated Oxidation Pool) system, which works by oxidizing pool water. This oxidation is so powerful that it reduces the need for chlorine down to drinking-water levels. It can even sanitize hot tubs and spas. However, the newest system is not without its drawbacks. For one, the cyanuric acid (CYA) stabilizer required for the CYA system can build up and make the sanitizer less effective. This makes it a frustrating maintenance nightmare. So many pool owners are looking to other pool sanitizing alternatives.

Salt

Saltwater is another sanitation option, but it has its own set of pros and cons. For instance, saltwater systems are a bit pricey to purchase and maintain. They also require you to monitor water chemistry once or twice a week, depending on your pool’s chemistry balance. This is important because it’s easier to sanitize water that is properly balanced than water that has been over-treated with chlorine or other chemicals. You should also keep an eye on salt levels, especially if you have a salt system. Over-salting is a common problem with these systems.

Ozone

Ozone is a powerful oxidizer that destroys bacteria and other organic matter. It also oxidizes oils, making your pool water softer and safer to swim in. Ozone can be produced in two ways: UV ozone generators and corona discharge systems. Both methods use ultraviolet light or high voltage to turn air into ozone molecules. In the case of a UV ozone generator, air is passed over lamps that emit ultraviolet light at 185 nanometers. The ultraviolet energy splits the oxygen molecules, creating ozone molecules that are then passed into the pool. All and all, ozone is a great option for swimming pools because it can be used to disinfect your pool without the risk of irritating your eyes or skin, or causing respiratory problems. It also helps remove chlorine odors from your pool, leaving you with fresh-smelling water.

UV

UV pool sanitation systems are an effective and safe way to sanitize your pool without chlorine. The ultraviolet light from these lights sanitizes your pool water as it passes through the filtration system, eliminating harmful bacteria and algae as it does so. However, UV lights do not work as an oxidizer, so you still need to add a low level of chlorine or other chemical to sanitize your pool after the ultraviolet system is off.

Copper Silver Ionizer

Another way to sanitize your pool is with a copper silver ionizer. These ionizers use a low electric current to create copper and silver ions in the water. These ions kill algae, bacteria and viruses, but they do not sanitize the water completely. Some chlorine is still needed, as these ionizers don’t kill all of the contaminants that contaminate your pool. They also have a tendency to cause eye and skin irritation. You should consult with a swimming pool professional before installing this system in your pool to determine the best sanitation option for you.