Ultraviolet Technology at Work

UV light is electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light. UV can be separated into various ranges, with short-wavelength UV (UVC) considered “germicidal UV” that is used for pools and spa sanitation, among other things. At certain wavelengths, UV is mutagenic to bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms.

On our systems we use 254 nm, which breaks molecular bonds within microorganismal DNA, producing thymine dimers that can kill or disable the organisms. It is a process similar to the effect of longer wavelengths (UVB) producing sunburn in humans. Microorganisms have less protection from UV and cannot survive prolonged exposure to it.

A majority of residential pool owners use some form of chlorine to sanitize the water. They normally maintain anywhere from 1 part per million to 3 part per million (ppm) in chlorine. With the addition of a UV System you can now save up to 70% in the cost of chlorine.

As water passes through the chamber the ultraviolet lamp destroys pathogens by altering their DNA. Algae, bacteria, and a multitude of other organisms are eliminated, leaving clear, clean water for you to enjoy.

Once the water leaves the UV chamber it is returned to your pool. The amount of chlorine in the pool water is called sanitizer residual. Most customers with a UV pool sanitizer are maintaining their chlorine residual at 0.3 parts per million (ppm) to 0.5 ppm. In many cities your drinking water will have chlorine levels higher than .3 ppm.

Pool owners that have sensitivity issues toward chlorine can now enjoy the benefits of UV System by maintaining a lower than normal chlorine residual. If given a choice, wouldn’t you rather swim in less chemicals anyway? Swim in clean fresh smelling pool with a UV pool sanitizer.