UV Ozone Water Purification

We all know that pools and hot tubs require regular maintenance and care to keep them in great condition. One of the most important tasks for pool owners is to use a sanitization method to clean the water by eliminating bacteria, parasites, and contaminants that may cause illness. Sanitizers also prevent the growth of algae, which can clog pool filters and feed harmful bacteria.

Chlorine is typically the most often used sanitization method, but it can irritate skin, bleach and wear down liners, and has a strong smell many find unpleasant. Saltwater pools use a saltwater chlorine generator to clean the water. Pool salt has its own drawbacks. It is highly corrosive if not managed perfectly and can cause fixtures to rust.

Fortunately, there is a better alternative. In recent years, manufacturers have developed systems that are harmless to swimmers and the pool structure but still offer sanitization and oxidization. The most popular new technologies available for pools and hot tubs use ultraviolet light and ozone gas to achieve healthier, more powerful results.

What Is UV Ozone Water Purification?

Ozone is activated oxygen and is generated by light or electrical energy. Ozone dissolved in water kills off dangerous pathogens, destroys both organic and inorganic contaminants, and works to clump them together so they can be removed via the pool filter. This gas is stronger than chlorine and is even able to kill some microorganisms resistant to chlorine treatments. UV systems work by passing water through a UV chamber where it is exposed to light to kill microorganisms like algae, bacteria, and viruses to sanitize the water.

The combination of ozone and UV light creates a cohesive water purification system that is highly effective at disinfecting pool water and leaving it crystal clear. The technology works by dissolving ozone gas in the water in the mixing chamber and then pumping it through the UV light chamber to get the best of both sanitization methods. The process creates hydroxyl radicals which are responsible for oxidizing contaminants before they convert to oxygen once again.

While the UV Ozone system is not generally capable of killing and disabling all the bacteria in a body of water, it drastically cuts down on the number of microorganisms present. Some chlorine use is still needed as a secondary method to sanitize the pool water. Pools that don’t have a UV ozone system typically need to maintain chlorine levels of 3.0 to 5.0 PPM. UV ozone pools can reduce the amount of chlorine to 1.0 PPM or below, which lowers the amount of chemicals by a significant amount and makes this a fantastic alternative for the environmentally conscious.

Benefits of the UV Ozone System

The UV and ozone purification system has many benefits. It creates softer water that feels great on the skin. The combination of ozone and UV light also minimizes the presence of irritants that cause asthma, eye redness, and other uncomfortable symptoms so swimmers can enjoy their time in the pool without worry. Have you ever spent a day in your Kansa City pool and noticed that your hair has a strange hue or your bathing suit has faded? Unlike chlorine, a UV ozone purification system won’t discolor hair or swimwear.

These benefits provide you with a better swimming experience in healthier water that uses less chemicals to keep it clean and sparkling. Also, as we discussed, UV ozone generators for pools are eco-friendly because they use much less chlorine. You get to do your part to help the environment, plus using less chlorine cuts down on the expense of maintaining the pool. The evidence is clear. Not only do you get greater peace of mind that you are providing your family and friends with a healthy place to swim, but switching to a UV ozone system can save you money in the long run.

Average Cost

UV ozone systems typically have an initial installation cost of around $1,500 to $2,500 and pay for themselves in a matter of a few years when you factor in the cost of chlorine and other sanitizing chemicals. They do require some additional maintenance, but this is minimal. The most important task is to replace the UV bulb regularly. In Kansas City, the timeframe works out to once about every two years, based on a five to six-month pool season.

If you have questions about which pool sanitization method is best for you, contact Recreation Wholesale to speak with one of our experts. Pools are our passion and we are happy to answer your questions and recommend the best treatments and technologies to keep your pool in excellent condition.