About Swimming Pool Ionizers

Swimming pool ionizers are a "green" way to keep pools clean and healthy. Ionizers utilize copper, silver and zinc to safely kill water-borne algae and bacteria in swimming pools. These ingenious devices, which typically cost anywhere from $200 to $1,500, are considered an environmentally friendly alternative to the use of disinfecting chemicals such as chlorine and muriatic acid that can leave swimmers with red eyes, discolored eyes and dry skin.

Function

Swimming pool ionizers perform their sanitizing function through the use of a low-voltage electrical current that disperses positively charged metal ions in the water. Because algae and bacteria are negatively charged, they bond with the copper, silver and zinc ions and are rendered harmless.

Types

While most swimming pool ionizers plug into conventional electrical outlets, solar-powered ionizers also are available. These solar units, typically measuring about a foot across, float in pools. They are equipped with a small solar panel that produces the electrical current needed to discharge ions of copper, silver and zinc.

Size

When purchasing a swimming pool ionizer, it is important to make sure that the model you select is designed for the size of your pool. In other words, don't expect an ionizer designed for a 1,200-gallon hot tub to work effectively in a 25,000-gallon swimming pool.

Benefits

Over the long term, swimming pool ionizers are a less expensive option for keeping pools clean than chemical disinfectants. Ionizers also require less frequent water testing. Plus the positively charged metal ions will not evaporate or dissipate. Finally, ionizers eliminate the odors, dry skin, bleached hair and red, itchy eyes that swimmers often complain about in chlorinated pools.

Warning

Swimming pool ionizers do not completely eliminate the need for chlorine, especially in pools with temperatures in excess of 90 degrees. Ionizers have a difficult time combating dense growths of algae, so chlorine may have to be added occasionally to keep pools sparkling clean.

Resources

• Pool Ionizers