Sanitizers serve many purposes in swimming pools and spas. They actively reduce the amount of micro-organisms in the water, kill algae spores, assist in water clarification, and generally maintain a healthy environment for bathing.
Many products are sold to swimming pool owners that promise greater water clarity, reduced chemical consumption, and other 'miracle' claims.
Unfortunately many of these products are either existing items marketed under different names or in the worst case scenario, non-performing scams.
The following items are legitimate alternative sanitizers:
- ozone purification systems
- ionizers
- UV disinfection systems
- Chlorine generators
Due to their complexity we will not explain the advantages and disadvantages of using these systems.
Ultra Violet Radiation
Ultra violet lamps bombard water borne molecules with UV radiation, effectively
eradicating algae, virus and bacteria.
- Efficiently cleans all water passing through the UV contactor
- No toxic byproducts or residues
- Ideal for hot tubs
- Only eliminates debris that passes through the UV canister. I.e. algae spores that adhere to pool or spa walls or fixtures are not killed. Therefore, UV
should be used in conjunction with chlorine
- Breaks down chlorine molecules
Ionizers
Ionizers provide a constant feed of copper and silver into the swimming pool or
spa water. Copper is a known growth inhibitor for photosynthesis based plants,
while silver is toxic towards all microorganisms.
- Simple concept
- Effectively kills algae
- Does not provide any oxidation benefits. I.e. some type of oxidizer (chlorine,
potassium mono per sulfate, etc) must also be used
- Injects heavy metals into the water
- Requires addition of expensive chelators to prevent staining
Salt Chlorination
Dissolved salt (NaCl) passes through electrodes, freeing up the chlorine atom to
actively sanitize the swimming pool and spa water. The constant addition of
chlorine results in lower maintenance costs and reduced risk of algae infestation.
The salinity of the water also provides a pleasant environment for bathing