Wonders of Pool Technology: Automatic Systems

Invest in an automatic system to help ease your swimming pool maintenance routine.

 

What types of filters and automatic sanitizing systems are available? 
 

Pool filters come in three types, named for the media that catches the debris: sand, DE (diatomaceous earth), and cartridge. Spas typically use cartridge filters, although when a pool and spa share equipment, any of the three may be used.

Many experts agree that cartridge filters are the greenest, as they can be cleaned without backwashing (a process that consumes water) and, when designed well, operate at impressive energy consumption rates.

For sanitizing, saltwater chlorinators have an electrolytic cell, plumbed in-line that coverts sodium chloride (salt) into chlorine. Once the chlorine does its job, it reverts back to salt, and the process repeats. You’ll only need to add salt when levels drop below 3,000 ppm due to splash-out or dilution over time; depending on your particular pool and location, you may need to add a 40-lb. bag every few months or as little as once a year. Some units have on-board diagnostics that monitor water temperature, saline levels, and other factors to keep your water in check.

Copper/silver ionization uses an electrolytic process too, but it creates copper and/or silver ions that destroy algae.

Mineral purification technology comes in the form of a cartridge inserted into the core of a filter; it releases a proprietary blend of bactericidal silver, algicidal copper, and/or other elements to sanitize the water.

Ultraviolet light also kills dangerous organisms in pool water, and UV systems are known for their ability to eliminate chloramines (the unwanted, potentially irritating form of chlorine that is produced when the active form of chlorine attacks organic matter).

A final option is ozone, which is produced for sanitizing hot tubs and swimming pools by one of two methods—ultraviolet (UV) or corona discharge (CD). Nearly all new hot tubs come with ozonators (ozone generators), typically the UV type, which contains a lamp that emits a specific wavelength of UV light to convert oxygen (O2) into ozone (O3). CD ozonators are more complex and require specialized equipment that dries the air and feeds pure oxygen.

Mineral purifiers, copper/silver ionizers, and ozone generators still require a small amount of traditional sanitizer to effectively sanitize the water. An easy way to keep chlorine or bromine in the water is with an erosion feeder. These specially designed containers hold chlorine or bromine in stick or tablet form. Water runs through the unit as it circulates back to the pool and returns with what should be the desired sanitizer level.

Which automatic sanitizing systems can be combined?

Almost any of these technologies can be combined. Ozone and saltwater chlorination are a particularly good pair. Salt chlorinators and mineral purifiers are another good choice for pools, while many of today’s hot tubs come with both a mineral purifier and an ozonator. Some are available as combination units from manufacturers.

I’m watching my budget—which automatic sanitizing system is best for me?

Keep in mind that you will reduce the recurring costs of other products by investing in an automated sanitizing system. Costs vary by region and brand, but the general price range for pool systems are as follows. (Hot tub systems cost much less.)

  • Mineral purifiers: $150 – $300

  • Basic erosion feeders: $75 – $140

  • Copper/silver ionizers: $400 – $1,500

  • Saltwater chlorinators: $400 – $1,800

  • Ozone systems: $1,000 and up