There is nothing as refreshing as a clear clean pool water. We all know that one of the most important parts of owning a plunge pool is that its fresh and clean. Luckily, you have a few simple options when it comes to keeping your pool clean and sparkling.
A remarkably powerful and efficient way to have that clear clean plunge pool is with an advanced oxidation process (AOP)— a refreshing way to help disinfect swimming pools without the harsh effects of typical chlorine sanitizing treatments used on most pools.
This potent treatment safely neutralizes a wide range of contaminants in pool water—including some dangerous pathogens that traditional chlorine treatments can’t handle. AOP systems have been used successfully for years in large commercial water-treatment facilities, including those that produce water we drink. Now, this technology is available for plunge pools, and the results are just as amazing.
What is Advanced Oxidation Process in Pool Water?
Used in conjunction with a small amount of regular chlorine, AOP works by oxidizing both organic and inorganic matter that contaminates swimming environments.
Oxidation may sound like a complicated scientific term. But it’s a basic process that occurs all the time in nature. Have you ever wondered why an apple turns brown after you peel it? That’s oxidation in action. It sounds a little gross, but all oxidation is the loss of electrons which causes a substance to break down. Chlorine—the most widely used pool sanitizer—also works through oxidation, but again, it’s chemicals and most of us are trying to get away from that.
How AOP works in swimming pools
AOP delivers better results than off-the-shelf chlorine alone. For starters, it provides three times the oxidation potential as chlorine.
It’s also more lethal than two other popular alternative water sanitizers: Ozone, a super charged form of oxygen—and ultraviolent (UV). Bottom line, you cannot find another pool sanitation tool that packs the same wallop as AOP!
An AOP system produces ozone molecules, and then it zaps them with UV rays inside an enclosed equipment chamber. Hydroxyl radicals may sound a little intimidating, but they are completely harmless to swimmers.
While AOP devices produce hydroxyl radicals using technology, these elements also exist in nature. In fact, scientists often refer to hydroxyl radicals as a kind of “detergent” for the atmosphere. That’s because they help eliminate many airborne pollutants, including greenhouse gasses such as methane.
Why and Why AOP/UV Works in Your Pool
Because hydroxyl radicals are unstable, they seek equilibrium. So as soon as they form, hydroxyl radicals seek out both organic and inorganic substances to combine with to help them stabilize.
By attaching to the cells in other various substances, hydroxyl radicals disrupt the composition of those substances—causing them to break down. Even better: They complete their work without any chemical after-effects. Once in the pool water, hydroxyl radicals oxidize all contaminants in the water in mere seconds. Then, they simply convert back to oxygen.
How AOP UV Works: Pairing ozone with ultraviolet light produces clean safe water.
A growing numbers of pool owners are seeking alternatives to standard chlorine —and the hassles and hazards they often cause. Driven by this demand—coupled with technological advances that have lowered the price tags on AOP systems a lot! Let’s look at a few important reasons AOP systems are quickly becoming a favorite choice for maintaining clean and healthy water for your family.
Unmatched Cleaning Power:
AOP systems easily outperform other pool-water treatment methods, including chlorine, salt-chlorine generation, ozone, and ultraviolet light. AOP’s hydroxyl radicals destroy 99% of organic and inorganic contaminants in pool water.
Hydroxyl radicals also prevent the formation of icky biofilm. Biofilm is an accumulation of slimy, bacterial colonies that sticks to areas of a pool such as the tile line and any stone surfaces. Hydroxyl radicals also inhibit growth of stubborn algae blooms as well.
Greater Water Clarity
AOP technology remove the colloids—tiny particles from dissolved metals, gels, lotions, and other inorganic substances—that make the water look cloudy. AOP’s hydroxyl radicals fully oxidize all kinds of organic contaminants. The range includes sweat, body oils, bacteria, viruses, human waste, and toxins such as pesticides.
It’s worth noting that your pool filter cannot remove all of these compounds. But AOP systems enable your filter to achieve what is typically impossible: AOP produces “micro-flocculation,” a process of aggregating tiny particles. Although not visible to the human eye, they are big enough for your pool filter to trap and remove from the water. So, instead of a hazy pool, you get brilliant, sparkling water every day!
A Safer and Gentler Way to Have Clean Clear Pool
AOP is lethal to unwanted microorganisms, but not to people and pets because it removes contaminants with no effect on swimmers. Its efficacy comes without producing toxic byproducts, making AOP much gentler than traditional chlorine treatments. Chlorine creates chloramines—harsh byproducts that wreak havoc for pool users with bleach-like odors, itchy eyes, dry skin, sore throats, parched rough hair, and faded swimsuits. Highly sensitive swimmers may even experience nausea or vomiting.
Unlike chlorine, AOP does not produce these irritating byproducts and the rash of physical side effects that often accompany them. In fact, AOP destroys chloramines, removing some of the unwanted effects they cause.
Lower Demand for Chemicals
AOP pool systems do not eliminate the need for chlorine and other chemicals. However, they dramatically reduce the requirements for them.
In addition, AOP helps boost the overall effectiveness of the small amount of chemicals that are used. And it’s Way Easier on your pools surfaces and equipment.
Better Pool Water Quality and Environmentally Safe
With lower chemical levels in your pool, AOP-treated water is easier on your eyes, skin, and lungs—making swimming and pool play safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Due to AOP’s micro flocculent action helping pool filters remove more contaminant particles—including certain metals—many AOP-pool owners say the water not only looks better, it even feels better to the touch. After hydroxyl radicals oxidize organic and inorganic contaminants in the water, they quickly convert back to oxygen.
This unique process makes AOP/UV an eco-friendly technology for the environment. It disinfects pool water better than any other method without damaging the environment.
Value Now, and Over Time
AOP systems deliver maximum sanitation results, and for that, the units’ price tags certainly run more than a bottle of chlorine or bucket of tablets. Initially, this technology also costs more than saltwater, ozone, or combination UV/ozone systems. The cost for an AOP unit will ultimately depend on the size of your pool. In general, a quality AOP system for a typical pool averages between $950 – $1,700 installed.
However, over the long term, AOP’s many advantages make it a very smart investment. For starters, consider the savings on money for chemicals. AOP requires only minimal chlorine: Fewer chemicals going into the pool translates to less money going out of your wallet. From a pool-ownership perspective, AOP produces immediate payoffs with water that looks great and provides healthier, more comfortable swimming.
The technology ensures softer, crystal-clear water that’s beautiful to gaze at and that’s free of typical chlorine aggravation. For many pool owners, their families, and their pets, this more attractive, more enjoyable pool experience is hard to put any price on!
All of these factors will play an important role in your decision. The fact remains that AOP/UV represents the pinnacle in pool & spa disinfection—the superior technology on the market. And for much less than you probably think.
Hydroxyl radicals sanitize quickly and safely, and they will give you polished, healthy sparking pool water like no other system can. Of course, we are happy to discuss the options to find what is best for you.