You’ve probably heard about UV disinfection systems if you’re building a new pool or maintaining an existing one. You might wonder why you need a UV sanitizer if you already use a salt chlorinator or an erosion chlorine feeder. In this article, we’ll explore UV pool sanitizers and determine if they are worth the investment.
Understanding Pool Water Chemistry
The first step in evaluating UV pool sanitizers is understanding your pool’s water chemistry. There’s no single solution for water sanitation; each component must work harmoniously with others.
For instance, relying solely on chlorine—whether through a salt chlorinator, erosion chlorinator, or chlorine tablets—requires regular shocking of the pool. While a salt system allows for shocking by increasing chlorine output from the salt cell, it also demands significant acid dosing to balance the pH. Ultimately, you’re still using more chlorine than necessary.
Why Do Pools Require Extensive Sanitization Maintenance?
Ever wondered how a mountain stream remains clear and clean while your chlorinated pool turns green and cloudy without maintenance? Clean water involves more than just chemicals, and this is where UV systems can help.
Mountain streams benefit from high oxygen levels and cold temperatures, both of which inhibit algae growth. The oxygen enters the water as it cascades over rocks, and the cold water naturally prevents algae.
The Role of UV Pool Sanitizers
To understand if UV pool sanitizers are worth it, consider how your pool differs from a mountain stream. You want your pool to be warm enough for swimming, promoting algae growth. Unlike a mountain stream, your pool likely lacks constant oxygenation and a continuous flow of fresh water.
UV systems create a chamber in your pool’s circulation system that kills nearly all microorganisms. The UV wavelength used in these sanitizers handles most water sanitation, reducing the need for super-chlorination.
Benefits of UV Pool Sanitizers
Are there alternatives to UV sanitizers? Yes, there are many water sanitization options. However, UV pool sanitizers are among the simplest and most efficient systems. They consist of a light bulb inside a chamber through which water flows.
Since you already circulate water for filtration and chlorination, the additional energy consumption for the UV bulb is minimal. The bulb needs replacing every couple of years at a cost of around $200, but it significantly reduces chlorine usage.
Are UV Pool Sanitizers Worth It?
So, are UV pool sanitizers worth it? With over 20 years of experience in the pool industry, they are. Reducing chemical use without adding complex systems or incurring high costs is beneficial. Unlike salt chlorination, UV systems don’t cause galvanic corrosion or accidental super-chlorination. Consider pairing a UV system with an ozone system for an even more robust disinfection system.
In conclusion, UV pool sanitizers offer a simple, effective way to maintain cleaner pool water with less chemical intervention. If you want to enhance your pool’s sanitation system, a UV sanitizer is a worthwhile investment.
