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Making A Different Sanitizer Choice
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Scroll down to browse
through some archived SWIMMING POOL questions and answers.
Please access the Pool Topics Page and other links, at the top of
every page, for additional information.
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The phrase "Alternative
Pool Sanitizer" usually refers to something other than conventional forms of
chlorine: the most popular sanitizing product. The goals include
avoiding chemical sensitivity risks, better sanitizing, more convenience, less
chemical sensation, keeping more in-touch with nature and safety.
Alternative Sanitizers include: salt chlorine generators,
ionization-oxidation, ionizers,
mineral sanitizers, ozone generators, ultraviolet sanitizers, biguanide and bromine.
Some alternatives perform best by being used in combination, while others can be
stand alone. Some alternatives are other chemicals and some are generating or
releasing devices. What is right for any pool will depend on how the pool
is used, who uses the pool, size and type of pool, location of the pool,
importance of convenience and cost considerations.
Clicking
on the underlined and highlighted
"keywords" or "catch phrases," in the archived answers will
give you access to additional information on that topic or product.
Please refer to the Glossary, if
there are terms or phrases that require explanation.
The Circulator: circulation boosting accessory
(Click on the Image for
product & ordering information.)
Better water
circulation helps to eliminate the dead zones that promote algae growth and
improves the distribution of chemicals and heat. Simple to install and
affordably priced. Suitable for inground and most above ground pools.
Complete information about The Circulator can be found by clicking on the above
image.
Be better informed and avoid costly problems!
►
How Do UV
Sanitizers Work?
I am interested in getting
away from all the chlorine and the odors associated with the product. I
know there are several types of alternative pool water sanitizers available,
which can reduce or eliminate chemical usage. I've read up on some of
them, but am not really clear about Ultraviolet. Is this the same as
Ozone? How does it work? Thanks for the help.
Adam J., 11/2/2004
Ultraviolet
(UV) is not ozone. Some ozone generators utilize UV to produce ozone, but
not as a sanitizing agent. UV rays destroy the microorganisms ability to
survive and function, a after passing through the cell membrane.
An
ultraviolet sanitizer unit is plumbed inline
and effectively
sanitizes the water, as it passes through the
cell. This has the net effect
of reducing the overall microbial populations and reducing the amount of
sanitizer necessary to maintain optimum water quality and to keep the pool
algae-free. UV will
reduce the microbial population, but requires a traditional sanitizer to help
keep it that way and to help the underwater surfaces free of algae.
Chlorine is well suited, in this role, and lower quantities of
chemicals will be required because of the lower microbial populations.
Visit
www.deltauv.com or
www.elektra.com for
more complete information on ultraviolet sanitizers. Good water circulation is important and a
robotic pool cleaner
would be a worthwhile addition, helping to keep the underwater surfaces in
algae-free condition. I hope that I have been
helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 11/2/2004
► Salt Chlorinators: Do They Really Work?
Alan, I
recently have seen advertisements for saltwater chlorinators. I even found a
link to a saltwater chlorinator website on your website. Do they really work,
i.e., do they really adequately disinfect and destroy organics in the pool?
Does the salt level (~3000 ppm) required to run them pose any problems with pool
equipment - like pumps, heaters, etc? Thank you.
Richard, 4/7/2004
In the
not too distant future, you are going to be surprised that you asked the
question. Presently, 90% of the pools in Australia are using a salt
chlorinator. Yes they do work! Yes they really disinfect
and destroy organics! In fact, all of the water passing through the cell
is superchlorinated. The only problem the salt
level could pose would be if two dissimilar metals were in close proximity, such
as brass screws on a stainless steel underwater light. Because the
popularity of
saltwater chlorinators is increasing so
rapidly, there should be few problems with heaters, pumps, filters. etc.
The pool is not really salt water, as ocean water has about 17 times more salt.
There's not enough to taste or feel. It sure beats adding chlorine the old
fashioned way!
The overall pool water chemistry is still maintained in the usual manner. I hope that I have been helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 4/7/2004
► Minimizing Chemicals?
Someone in my family is very sensitive to
whatever is used in most pools. We live in south Florida and have a
heated pool, so it permits year round use. I want a system that allows
me to use the least amount of chemicals and do it easily, without
sacrificing the ability to properly sanitize the water. I have
rejected salt chlorine generators, because of the salt level required and
because it is still a chlorine pool. Is there a unit or combination
that can serve my needs. Thank you for any help you can offer.
Betty J., Boca Raton, FL 5/12/2007
A
TechnoPure Ionization-Oxidation
unit might be just what you want. It uses copper an d zinc ions to
provide a persistent level of sanitizing action and generates forms of
active oxygen to help assist the sanitizing and destroy organic wastes.
Some might argue that you don't need any chlorine and that could be
true, under the best of circumstances. I prefer to see a very low
level of chlorine maintained. Not enough to call this a chlorine pool
or to even sense its presence, but enough to confirm that a persistent
oxidizer-sanitizer is present. Just the presence of this low level
acts to confirm that the system is functioning properly and is meets the
needs of the pools sanitation. I like the notion of being able to test
and measure a sanitizer. Add
The Circulator
to boost circulation and eliminate dead zones and you further improve the
system. An Ionization-Oxidation unit can be fully automated for ease
of maintenance. About all you'll have to do is control the pH and this
low chlorine level. The oxidation helps to eliminate the odorous and
irritating forms of chlorine. It isn't quite chlorine free, but it
performs and as is close to chemical-free, as practical. I hope that
this information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 5/12/2007
► Making A Sanitizer Choice?
I recently purchased a
portable pool 17x29 and I am considering a salt chlorinator or ozonator or maybe
the ionizer-oxidation type system. We have well water. No problems
with that, but will have it tested for iron etc as you suggested in the
archives. I wondered how good the new salt chlorinator that hangs on the side of
the pool could be. There is no way to measure the level of chlorine
produced and it isn't automatic either. So what system would provide the
least problems with a reasonable cost? Thank you.
Lisa W.,
Florida, 4/19/2005
I would not suggest an ionizer system, with or without
oxidation features in your case. You have well water and if you need to treat
the water, there may be a problem with these products. You may not have a metals
problem now, but that can change.
Ozonators are
not complete sanitizing systems. You'll still need to add some chlorine.
That being the case, a salt chlorine generator makes sense. Ozonators and
salt chlorine generators can be used together: it will extend the life of
the salt cell and reduce the pH adjustments needed to lower the pH. The
ChlorEase
unit is inexpensive and should provide for your pool's chlorine needs. All you
have to do is plug it into a GFI protected outlet and test the water to
determine if enough chlorine is being produced. How much easier could be
For more on this unique product go to:
www.smartpool.com I hope that I have
been helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 4/19/2005
►
How Do Ionizers Work?
Could you explain how an Ionizer
works? Simply, if possible. Thank you very much.
Tom M., Ukiah, CA,
12/2/2003
Most Ionizers work on
the principle of adding a low level of silver and copper ions to the water.
Ions are the electrically charged soluble form of these metals. The copper
ions function as an algaecide. The silver ions function as a bactericide.
At these low levels, staining and precipitation should be eliminated. The
Ionization unit contains a silver and copper electrode and the regulation, of
the current between these electrodes, will control the amount of copper and
silver ions released into the pool water. The device is plumbed in line
and operates with the same cycle as the filter. A
Mineral Sanitizer, is
another type of device, utilizing erosion of copper and silver materials,
instead of the electrodes. In either, case the sanitizing principle is
similar. In addition to the copper/silver Ionization, there must be oxidation. For
this purpose a non-chlorine shock is usually used, in order to destroy organic
contamination and build up and to destroy dead algae and debris. The
overall water chemistry must be maintained for bather comfort, water quality and
to protect the pool surfaces and equipment. If your intent is to use
fewer chemicals, you might consider the hybrid TechnoPure Ionization-Oxidation
Sanitizing System. Like an ionizer it uses metallic ions: copper and
zinc in this case. However, it also provides the all-important oxidation
function, by producing forms of active oxygen. It does more than an
ionizer and is eco-friendly. For more information go to:
www.technopure.com I hope that I have been of
assistance.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
12/2/2003
►
How Does A Mineral
Sanitizer Work?
I have a Mineral
Sanitizing System
installed on my above ground pool. I supplement it with some granular
chlorine and shock. It seems to be doing a good job. My question is
how does it work? Thanks.
Ed, Cleveland, OH, 6/3/2004
Mineral
Sanitizers release metallic ions into the water on a controlled basis.
It is d one without the use of electrical circuits, as is the case with
Ionization units. The mineral ions act to help control algae and bacteria.
When used in a typical chlorine sanitized pool, a mineral purifier will reduce
the amount of chlorine required. Mineral Sanitizers cannot
destroy organic wastes and byproducts or destroy dead algae and debris and it is
recommended that the water be shocked on a regular basis, for this
purpose. Because Mineral Sanitizers have so little effect on the
water chemistry, control of the pH and total alkalinity is less demanding.
You can dramatically reduce the amount of chlorine used, by adding an
Ozone Generator.
All the chlorine odor will disappear and the water quality will greatly improve. I hope that I have been helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 6/3/2004
►
What Is The Frog Cycler?
We recently brought our home. We have an in ground
pool. It has a Frog Cycler in the filter system. We would like to
know the purpose of this and exactly what does it do? Thank you for
your help.
CS, 4/6/2007
The
Frog Cycler
is a complete system of Minerals and Chlorine.
It features a precise dial for achieving at least 0.5 ppm chlorine level.
Includes a POOL FROG Cycler and Mineral Reservoir. Cycler is in-line with 2"
male adapters installed for pools up 40,000 gallons. The Mineral Reservoir
lasts 6 months. In short, it combines the benefits of a
precision chlorinator and a mineral sanitizer to help provide proper
sanitizing, with a minimum of time and effort. For more
complete product information go to:
www.kingtechnolgy.com
Enjoy the pool.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 4/7/2007
►
Ozone:
How Does It Work?
How do pool
Ozonators work? Will other chemicals and chlorine still be required?
Thanks for the help. Sincerely.
Jason H., Reading,
PA, 7/24/2003
There are two
common methods of generating ozone in a pool. Most units p ass air over a
UV light source, that converts oxygen into ozone. Others units use corona
discharge (electric sparking similar to lightening) to convert oxygen into ozone.
In a swimming pool, the ozone can destroy organic matter, including algae and
bacteria. The
Ozone Generator or Ozonator is usually operated in conjunction with the timer
and the filter. Once the Ozonator is shut off, all production of ozone
ceases and the ozone in the water quickly leaves - there is no residual
effect. At this
point, the pool is subject to microbial growth, especially on the walls and in
the corners. Because of this limitation of ozone, there must be a backup
sanitizer such as: chlorine or bromine or even ionization or
mineral
sanitizers. However, the Ozonator will reduce the amount of the backup
sanitizer required. For more about Ozone and Ozone Generators visit:
www.waterquality.net So far as the overall water chemistry is
concerned, it must be maintained in consideration of water clarity and quality,
bather comfort and corrosiveness. I hope that I
have been of assistance.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 7/24/2003
►
Earth-Friendlier Choice?
I am in the process of
purchasing a home with an in ground pool in Florida. This is my first pool
home! I have a young son, who loves to swim and play in the water. He
would probably be in the pool very often, now that we have one at home. I
am concerned about the chemicals and did some research on the internet about
alternative solutions. Now I am a bit confused. I tend to want to go with
a saltwater chlorine generator and combine it with an UV clear pool
sanitizer or solar powered mineralizer. I also think I might need a
circulator. Is this overkill or are these combinations even possible or
necessary? My son is quite sensitive to many chemicals, also I want to be
"earth-friendly" and avoid any more harm to our planet earth. One more
concern I have is the ease of use of these systems. I am completely new to
having a pool to maintain. Also, my son and I are traveling in the summer
months and will not be home for weeks and sometimes months. Do you think a
hired pool service will be familiar with these alternative systems? So many
questions!!! Thank you for all your help, you are a blessing!
All the best,
Suzanne, Florida, 4/11/2008
The Circulator
should make any sanitizing system work better and is a worthwhile
addition. A
saltwater system is still chlorine, although in a
method of use that is better than regular applications of chlorine
products. With any system of alternatives, it is difficult to eliminate
all of the chlorine usage, without risking algal or bacterial growth.
Following is information on
TechnoPure. It uses active
oxygen and metallic ions and a requires only a very low level of
chlorine, as a backup. The Technopure does all of the required
oxidation and the metallic ions function as persistent backup
sanitizers. I believe in the ability and need to measure sanitizer
level. While you are home, you can maintain the free chlorine at a low
0.5 PPM. When away on a trip, have the pool service maintain it at
normal level of 1-3 PPM, usually higher the day of a weekly service.
This way, the Technopure can be set lower and will go on and off
automatically, with the pump/filter timer, and the serviceman only needs
to treat this as a chlorine pool. You can always add a salt
chlorine generator or
UV
sanitizer, should you choose to do so, if there is an
apparent need. Sensitivity to chemicals does make one think in
terms of minimizing the chemical levels and avoiding some of the more
irritating ones. Towards that end, a TechnoPure Ionization-Oxidation
System might just what you are looking for. It uses relatively
innocuous copper and zinc ions for sanitizing purposes and active forms
of oxygen to oxidize wastes, contamination and organic byproducts. This
technology was originally developed by NASA, for use aboard the
spacecraft of the Apollo missions.
The TechnoPure
systems will give you a very low chemical presence and could be all that
your pool will require. Under high bather load conditions, the addition
of a small a mount of potassium monopersulfate might be used to give the
oxidation a quick boost. The system can, also, be used with very low
levels of chlorine or bromine, to act as a sanitizing backup. The
levels will be so low that their use should not be detectable by the
bathers or by the presence of a chemical-type odor. TechnoPure's
customer base includes professional sports teams and highly rated hotels
and resorts. TechnoPure systems lend themselves to pool
automation and even the pH can be maintained without the use of
corrosive acids. If you are looking for a "green" way to maintain a
pool or spa, this could be it! For more information go to:
www.technopure.com
I hope that this information will be helpful in making the
best decision.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 4/12/2008
► Special Needs Situation?
I'm trying to find out if there
really
is a way to have a chemical free pool. I have four children (two
are autistic) and want the safest possible environment for them. Briefly,
this is my experience so far. I had a conventional pool setup with an
automatic chlorinator and a mineral sanitizer system. It worked pretty well, but I wanted
it even better. Switched to biguanide, but after one night the hot tub had
thousands of dead mosquitoes (it caught more than my mosquito magnet) in it and
caused sudsing problems. I felt anything that kills that quickly could not be
healthy. Found out about a copper ionization and oxygen system, tried
shocking the pool with potassium monopersulfate (to get rid of biguanide) but it
went green. I drained the pool and refilled. I couldn't get the copper level
past .3 ppm after 7 days of ionization (24 hrs/day) and an additional 8 hrs/day
for another 10 days. Zeobrite media replaced sand in the filter. Pool became
copper stained. All children developed diarrhea. My autistic sons behavior
regressed. We were concerned about possible copper toxicity. Many autistic
children have copper/zinc imbalances so blood tests were ordered. The copper
does not seem to be the problem. However, since my sons do poop outside the pool
(and sometimes in the pool) and jump back in (sometimes before being cleaned)
e-coli is suspected. I have a old water sample to test for this. Stopped
copper ionization, drained and refilled the pool and went back to a conventional
method. Currently, I have 2 chlorine tablets in each of the skimmers, shock
with non-chlorine shock every week or after a heavy bather load and will add one
to two quarts of liquid chlorine to pool (25,000 gal) after a fecal accident. I
keep free chlorine at 1 ppm. Spoke to a local pool man and he said it may
be possible to achieve what I want with a commercial ozone system on my pool. This over-sizing is
to combat fecal accidents. But there are no guarantees and I don't want to
gamble. Regular ozone or ultraviolet systems may reduce chlorine, but do
not eliminate it. Chlorine generators seem to save you from having to add
chlorine. My sons love the pool and are in it many hours a day. Is there
really a to go completely chemical free and be safe or is it a mater of choosing
your own poison? Thanks in advance.
Mike K., 7/31/2005
A chlorine-free pool is not easily achievable! A very low chlorine/bromine pool is more
practical. If copper could be an issue, the choice of a copper-oxidation
unit, ionizer or mineral sanitizer should be avoided. I would start with
UV sanitizing, as it is
truly chemical free. UV treatment will reduce the microbial populations in the
return flow to near zero, without the use of any chemicals. However, it cannot
oxidize wastes or totally eliminate the microbial population in the pool water
or
 prevent the growth of biofilm on the underwater surfaces. Products such as
hydrogen peroxide, chlorine (or bromine) or non-chlorine shock must be used, in
conjunction with UV. How much will be required will depend upon actual pool
usage. More usage will require more chemicals. In order to assure that
adequate oxidation and sanitation exist at all times, I suggest that you try and
maintain a 1-2 PPM level of bromine. Bromine is less odorous and irritating
than chlorine. Hydrogen peroxide alone may
not properly sanitize the spa proper. Bromine will provide the necessary
oxidation and
sanitizing, while reducing odor. The UV unit will help decrease microbial
populations and reduce the amount of bromine necessary to maintain any given PPM
level. Over time, charting the amount of chemicals added, the bather usage and
the bromine level, will provide the best indication of actual chemical
requirements.
Adding an
ozonator
will produce virtually all of the oxidation required, with more chemicals.
The UV and Ozonator combination will come very close to meet all the needs of the pool.
Using an enzyme treatment, ultra-high efficiency filter and a
circulation
booster should reduce the need for chlorine or bromine to close to
zero. I hope that this information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 7/31/2005
► Combination Unit?
I have really
appreciated the information on your website. I just bought a home with a pool. I
plan to have it acid washed and then to set it up with a salt water chlorinator
and ozonator. My pool is 16x37 and it gets quite warm in South Texas. Do you
think a combination unit would work? I have seen some products with both
sanitizers in one unit. My concern is that if the cell goes out, the whole unit
would need to be replaced.
Hope S., Texas, 3/29/2007
I would
prefer the performance of two separate full size units. That is not what you
get with combination units. I agree that a combination unit also involves
putting all of the eggs in one basket. I
would go with a quality
salt
chlorine generator,
more than big enough for your size pool. Adding an
ozonator will allow you
to run the salt chlorine generator at a lower setting, extend the life of the
salt cell and make pH control easier. It should further reduce the chemical
presence. I hope this information proves useful and good luck with then pool.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 3/29/2007
►
Minimizing The Sanitizer?
What if I combine a UV sanitizer with an
Ozonator with an ionizer. Would I still need another sanitizer? Thanks!
Best Regards.
Olivier S., 5/23/2007
If reduced chemical usage is the intent,
UV sanitizing is
the place to start! UV treatment will reduce the microbial populations in the
return flow to near zero, without the use of chemicals. However, it cannot
oxidize wastes or totally eliminate the microbial population in pool or spa
water or prevent the growth of biofilm on the underwater surfaces. An
ozonator
will supply the required oxidation. For more information go to:
www.waterquality.net A ionizer or mineral sanitizer will provide
the needed persistent sanitizer You should not require any chlorine. For UV
information go to:
www.deltauv.com
For
mineral sanitizer
information go to:
www.kingtechnology.com
Another option would be a
TechnoPure Ionization-Oxidation
sanitizer. It uses active oxygen and copper and ions:
providing both sanitizing and oxidizing actions. For more information go
to:
www.technopure.com To further assure proper circulation, I suggest adding
The Circulator,
as it will eliminate dead spots.
High efficiency filtration
is another plus. For information go to:
www.micropure.ca
I hope this information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
5/23/2007
►
Wanting A New Approach?
About a year
ago I purchased a copper oxidation system. I now regret it, as I’m having to
shock and maintain a low amount of chlorine anyway it seems to keep the algae at
bay. I am going to switch and want the best solution. I still don’t like
chlorine much and want a low-maintenance solution. But I am thinking of either
(1) a salt water chlorinator or (2) a UV/Ozone/Mineralizer approach. Any
idea what are the relative annual costs will be? Will there be much difference
between the two set ups in effectiveness? If not too different, I think I’ll go
with the latter. Thanks for your help!
Brad P.,
4/8/2007
I have
not received many letters like this, regarding this type of unit. Assuming that
your unit is operating properly and, for long enough periods, there could be
other explanations and a simple solution. The copper level could be too low for
performance as an algaecide, the copper could have become chelated (complexed)
by the presence of certain metal treatment, the algae could be resistant to the
copper levels being maintained or the urine and high bather wastes have
overwhelmed the sanitizing. Try shocking and adding a dose of a polymer
algaecide. After things are cleared, continue with the polymer algaecide.
A
salt
chlorine generator is a complete
sanitizing system. Used in conjunction with a
Frog Mineral Sanitizer,
or an
ozonator or a
UV
sanitizer, it will allow you maintain
proper water quality with less chlorine and that will make pH control easier.
If you combine ozone, UV and a mineral sanitizer, you should be able to be
chlorine free, except for the occasional problem, should the system be subjected
to high bather loads. After the initial costs, the operating/replacement
costs are relatively small.
I hope that this information is useful in helping
with your decision.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
4/9/2007
► Trying To Decide?
We are installing a new 18 by 40 foot
in-ground pool and would like to reduce or eliminate the use of chlorine. Are
you familiar with an "oxygen and copper ionization" system that claims to totally
eliminate the need for chlorine or other chemical treatments? Would you
recommend this system? Do you think a salt chlorine generator would be more
effective? Should it be used with an ionizer or an ozonator? I am also
confused about chloramines. I understand that the salt chlorine generators
eliminate the formation of chloramines, which produce the smell and irritation
in pool water, but prolonged exposure to chloramines also has potentially
harmful health effects. Does exposure to the chlorine produced by the salt
chlorine generators, that is present in the pool water, also present potential
health effects, or are the health effects somehow limited to the chloramines?
Thank you.
Daniel C., 7/28/2005
I am familiar with this product. After
analyzing my email, I realized that many of the writers were not talking about
an ionizer, but rather this product. This product only provides oxidation,
while it is operating. Once shut off, the active oxygen quickly dissipates. If
there are leaves on the pool, a tannin stain could result. This would not
happen with a chlorine pool, so long as chlorine was present. (Read
the Amazing Reappearing Rust Stains letter).
In addition to this shortcoming, there are many instances where too much copper
has caused staining. While, not necessarily the fault of the unit, it is a
problem nonetheless. Copper has its limitations and I would not recommend this
product for use in a fiberglass pool or a pool that contains iron and other
heavy metals.
Salt chlorine generators are
rapidly increasing in popularity. Chlorine has a safe and proven track record.
A lot of the bad press relative to chlorine relates to its manufacture and not
to its pool usage. A salt chlorine generator avoids buildup of certain organic
chemicals, produces fewer byproducts and allows the chlorine to be maintained
at a much safer and more consistent level, avoiding concentrations that rise and
fall with usage and additions. By far and away, chlorine is the world's most
popular pool sanitizer and one of the best when used in the form of a salt
chlorine generator. You will have to add the
required amount of salt. The overall water chemistry should be maintained in
the usual manner. Because salt chlorinators destroy chloramines so effectively,
you will find the swimming conditions more pleasant and easier to maintain.
An ozonator is not a
stand alone sanitizing system. It needs back up. Mineral sanitizers, ionizers,
chlorine,
salt chlorine generators
and bromine can all be used in conjunction with ozone. Shock is only required,
if the water is deteriorating or, possibly after heavy bather usage. Any
kind of shock can be used. Ozonators can be used in conjunction with salt
chlorine generators, decreasing the amount of chlorine that needs to be
produced.
Ionizers or
mineral sanitizers are usually used with bromine or chlorine, but can
be used with ozonators or
salt chlorine generators.
They must be used with something that will oxidize the wastes and byproducts.
There is no choice about this. Any form of shock can be used, but people stay
away from chlorine products, if no chlorine is their intent.
When chlorine or bromine are being used in a back up role to ionization or
ozonation, it is common to maintain the chlorine or bromine at about 1/2 the
usual level.
I hope that this
information will prove helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 7/28/2005
► Environmentally Friendly?
We are
looking for an environmentally friendly method to keep our pool clean. A copper
ionization was recommended to us, but we are concerned that it may require
additional chemicals that may not be needed with a system using salt. The
product literature indicates that no additional chemicals are needed, but in
looking at information about copper ionization in general it appears that
chemicals are generally needed from time to time to shock the system and keep it
clean. We use well water and it has a hard mineral content. We also have some
concern about discharging heavy metals into the soil and possibly contaminating
the ground water, in the event the pool is drained. Can you tell us
whether copper and oxygen (as opposed to silver) ionization is preferable over
salt? Thank you.
Eleanor, 8/1/2005
You have well water and that means you
will have to treat the water for heavy metals. As far as I am concerned, that
could preclude the possibility of your using some
mineral sanitizers
or ionizer units. Treating the water for metals, such as iron, could inactivate
the copper ions. Anyone suggesting otherwise, is mistaken or not considering
your interests. A
salt chlorine generator!
It is chlorine without all the negatives. No chlorine odor, no handling,
storage or buying chlorine and much better water quality. You'll have to buy
some salt - common, non-iodized food grade or water softener grade -
inexpensive! Thereafter, you need to add more salt only to replace that lost
through pump out, splash out, backwashing or overflow.
It is enviro-friendly, as there are no
suspect byproducts being released. Because salt chlorinators destroy
chloramines so effectively, you will find the swimming conditions more pleasant
and easier to maintain. If your needs to be treated for metals, that is no
problem. Adding a metal treatment actually helps keep the salt cell plates free
of scale. I hope that
you'll find this information helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 8/1/2005
►
Environmental
Concerns?
Hello
Alan! A store, specializing in environmentally
safe products for the home, in Scottsdale, Arizona gave me your website. I'm so
glad they did! This has been valuable information to me and I thank you!
I live in Tempe, Arizona. I just had a brand new plaster pool built in my
backyard. It is 36x16 and has 17,483 gallons of water. I go to an
environmental doctor, who says that the chlorine in the pool is potentially
harmful. I have been researching water purification systems with the goal
of limiting chemicals and chlorine, and still have a safe reduced pathogen pool
to swim in. Are you familiar with any of the oxygen purification systems?
I've ruled out Ozone because I hear that it "gasses out" toxins.
I've also ruled out salt systems. I've investigated an Ionization
product. It's a copper system, but I'm hearing that copper will turn my
plaster pool blue-green in time. I know of another oxygen system called
that has an electrode system that still uses chlorine but at lower levels. Do
you think that having a 0.5 content of chlorine in my pool is enough to kill
pathogens? Are you aware of any other oxygen systems? Also, a man
that specializes in interior pool surfaces told me to keep my money and instead
of purchasing an expensive oxygen system, he uses Borates in his pool and
maintains his chlorine level at 1.0. Have you heard of this? I'm
open to any and all suggestions and recommendations. THANKS!
Carol E.,
Tempe, AZ, 4/9/2003
So many questions - so little time! The systems that utilize
ozone generators are not complete pool water sanitizers. They help to oxidize
and destroy organics, debris, algae and bacteria, but do not leave a residual
level of sanitizer in the water.
When the ozonator shuts off, there is
no sanitizer left and the pool is vulnerable to microbial growth. For this
reason, it is suggested that these systems be used in conjunction with chlorine,
bromine, mineral sanitizers or ionizers. An
Ionization-Oxidation Sanitizer
combines the use of copper and zinc ions as sanitizers and active oxygen to
provide a hybrid approach to pool sanitizing, while reducing the overall
chemical presence.
Ionizers
and
mineral sanitizers, utilize low levels of
metallic ions to provide
sanitizing action. Staining is not expected to be a problem at these
low levels, so long as proper water chemistry is maintained and source water
does not present a problem in its own right.
However, these products do
not oxidize or destroy organic contamination, dead algae and debris.
For this task, chlorine or non-chlorine shock are usually used.
Ultra-Violet
Sanitizers kill about 99.9% of microorganisms as the water passes through
the cell. The UV light does the
sanitizing without chemicals and reduces the overall microorganism populations.
Another major advantage of UV Sanitizing it that it can kill microorganisms that
might have become resistant to more traditional water sanitizers. Because there is no residual action, it should
be used with chlorine or bromine as a backup. Far less chlorine or bromine
will be required, to maintain satisfactory levels, because of the action of the
Ultra-Violet. In addition the chloramine concentration will be suppressed
and there is will be diminished odor and more pleasant swimming conditions.
Borates are used to lower the pool's
requirement for chlorine, by depriving algae of abundant quantities of dissolved
carbon dioxide. The lowering of the carbon dioxide levels will slow
algae growth and reduce the chlorine consumption.
If you could maintain a 1.0 PPM level of
Free Chlorine, all the time, pool water sanitizing would be a cinch!
You
rejected a
salt chlorine generator, but seem willing to maintain accept a chlorine
level of 0.5-1.0 PPM. My own experience, with a salt/chlorinator,
provided good results with relatively low levels of
Free
Chlorine. The environmental bad news about chlorine has little
or nothing to do with its use in swimming pools. The irritating and
odorous form of chlorine is chloramine. A salt/chlorinator will destroy
all of the chloramines, as the water passes through the conversion cell.
To
produce chlorine, with this product, all you require is salt and some
electricity.
There is little or no sensation of chlorine even being in
the water. If you think you smell chlorine - you are actually smelling
chloramines. Borates or phosphate eliminators can be used to further lower
the pool's chlorine requirement. I hope that I have put things into a
proper perspective. Good luck with your decision.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 4/9/2003
►
Tetraborate
Products?
I've seen products
that claim to reduce the amount of chlorine used in a pool. They contain
some borate material. Is this something like chlorine stabilizer?
Can you tell me anything about it?
Nameless,
4/17/2004
The products
that you are referring to are based upon sodium tetraborate. It is not a
chlorine stabilizer and it is not intended to replace chlorine or chlorine
stabilizer. The addition of this product to swimming pool water, as
directed, will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the water. This reduction, in turn, will help prevent or inhibit the growth of algae:
swimming pool algae require carbon dioxide as a vital nutrient. The
reduction in algae growth, in turn, leads to a reduced amount of chlorine being
required to maintain a satisfactory sanitizer level. It does
not replace chlorine!
I hope that I have filled in some of the
blanks for you.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 4/17/2004
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►
Reducing
Chlorine Consumption?
Here in Texas, I fight a war
with algae all summer long. A local pool supply store / pool service has
recommended that I use a product they sell. (It is a nationally
distributed item) They call it a stabilizer and they claim that it will
turn the water a beautiful Bahaman blue and that I will NOT have any problems
with algae as long as I use it. They also claim that my chlorine use
will be cut in half. They say that they will not take on any pool
service contract unless the owner uses this stuff. Here's the kicker.
They say that I would need an initial treatment of about 60 lbs in my
19,000 gallon in-ground pool. Aside from this being a significant
financial outlay, it seems like an excessive amount to me. Have you ever
heard of anything like this?
Texan, 7/1/2004
It sounds like
you are describing tetra borate products. These products can reduce
chlorine consumption and help stabilize the pH. They work by reducing the
amount of carbon dioxide in the water and this deprives algae of a needed
nutrient. Will it reduce chlorine usage by 50%? I have no stats
and I'm sure that individual experiences will vary considerably. It's your
decision. You've had problems with algae and this will certainly not
hurt. Another option, might be to try a phosphate eliminator. It
works by depriving algae of phosphates. Of course you could use both, that
is, if money is no object. The bottom line is that maintaining an adequate
level of Free Chlorine, AT ALL TIMES, is the first line of defense against
algae. The addition of an
Ozone Generator
will greatly reduce the chlorine usage and odors, associated with chlorine.
Adding
The Circulator will help distribute the
ozone, as it improves chemical distribution and eliminates dead zones. I hope that I have been helpful. Enjoy the summer.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster 7/1/2004
► Bromine Compatibility?
Hi Alan, I am a new inground pool owner and am
overwhelmed with all the products out there for sanitizing and for control of
pH, algae, and so forth. I am using bromine products currently because that
is what I received when the pool was installed in July. I really like the
bromine compared to chlorine that my friends use and want to continue with
it. Are all bromine sanitizers the same? Can I use another companies
product? Can I use any algae prevention product with bromine, or are some
only to be used with chlorine, and some with bromine products? I would ask my
pool supply store, but not sure if they would tell me the truth, since I
wouldn't be purchasing the products they sell. Thanks.
R T., 9/3/2003
Bromine and
chlorine share a similar chemistry. Compatibility is not an issue.
All bromine, in solid forms, are not exactly the same. There are slight
chemical differences that effect how the material can be made into solid shapes.
These differences do not lead to any significant differences in the actual use
of the bromine. In general, bromine is difficult to tabletize and some
tablets resist chipping better than others. They all work the
same. The only chemical that you should not use is chlorine stabilizer, as
it will serve no useful purpose in a bromine pool. I hope that I have been
helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 9/3/2003
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►
How Do
Phosphate Eliminators Work?
A local pool store
suggested a phosphate eliminator, as means of controlling algae. What
actually is a phosphate eliminator?
R. Z., Portland, OR,
8/22/2004
Phosphate
eliminators are based on a lanthanum (a rare earth element) compound.
Upon addition to swimming pool water, the lanthanum reacts with the phosphates
in the water and precipitates them from solution. The lanthanum reduces
the phosphate concentration from parts per million to parts per billion. A
phosphate
test can
be used to confirm the effectiveness of the product. Phosphates are
a necessary nutrient for algae growth and their nearly total removal from the
water can impede their growth. The phosphate eliminators can be used with
chlorine, algaecides and most pool chemicals.
Used properly
and in conjunction with sanitizers, phosphate eliminators can add another layer
of algae control. They must be added periodically to keep the
phosphate levels depressed, because swimmers and their associated wastes are a
source of new phosphates. I hope that I have explained the product to your
satisfaction. Enjoy the summer.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 8/22/2004
►
Chlorine
To Biguanide?
Currently my pool is
being maintained on chlorine. I'm thinking of switching to biguanide.
I heard that there is no chlorine smell. Is there anything I have to do
before switching over? Thank you.
Phil H., Mt.
Ephraim, NJ, 7/22/2004
In order to
start using biguanide, it is necessary to eliminate all of the chlorine in your
pool. For that purpose, the biguanide manufacturer provides a chlorine
neutralizer product. Copper and silver algaecides might, also, present a
problem. If you have ever used either product, I suggest that you bring in
a water sample for analysis. The dealer should be able to determine, if
any additional steps, are required. Good luck with your decision.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 7/22/2004
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