Alternatives to Swimming Pool Chemicals

Chlorine is the most popular chemical used to treat swimming pools but alternative methods of water care have become increasingly popular. Chlorine is a harsh chemical that effectively cleans bacteria but can also cause skin and respiratory issues. New technology has introduced natural systems of water purification that can convert the chemical makeup of water for safe swimming.

Saltwater

Saltwater systems use a small amount of sodium that is barely detectable in the water. The saltwater is broken down by electrolysis and naturally converts into a milder, bacteria killing form of chlorine. The naturally converted chlorine then reconverts to salt, reinitiating the cycle to continually maintain the pool water. A saltwater system is self cleaning so additional chemicals or purifiers are not necessary.

Ionization

Ionic pool cleaning systems releases silver and copper to kill bacteria and prevent the growth of algae. Small amounts of metals are infused into the water and ionization occurs as a result of water molecules being converted into ions. Cartridges are placed into the filter of the pool and the metals are released from the cartridges into the water.

Oxidation

Ozone is a strong yet safe disinfectant that is produced by water during the oxidation process.To produce oxidation an ultraviolet or electric generator must be placed outside of the pool. Ozone is a powerful sanitizer and oxidizer but will need to be used in addition to algaecides and residuals.

Sonic Waves

Producing sound waves is another method of killing contaminants and algae. Sonic wave systems use an underwater device that emits sound waves. The device releases a high-pitched sound, undetectable by human hearing that causes algae to break and resonate.

Purifying Plants

Specifically selected plants can be used to create a pool filter that keeps swimming water clean. Certain plants can infuse the pool with oxygen in addition to killing bacteria and algae. A plant filter can be added to a traditional swimming pool by creating a natural filter landscaped close to the swimming pool.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Although alternative pool cleaning methods have experienced some rise in popularity, it still may be difficult to find builders capable of installing an alternative system. In addition, it can be just as challenging to find a pool maintenance worker capable of assisting with pool upkeep using alternative methods that do not require new system initialization. While alternative methods are typically less harmful and cause fewer side effects than other chemicals, they may not be as effective at killing bacteria and algae. The release of copper during the ionization process can cause discoloration of hair and some methods of delivering ozone to the water during oxidization can cause severe plaster damage to the pool over time.

References

• GreenYour; Use natural alternatives to pool chemicals
• Pool Solutions; Alternative Swimming Pool Chemistry