Whether you’re building a pool for the first time or upgrading your pool features, choosing a pool system is one of the most crucial decisions you must make. It’s important to do some research and find a pool system that will best work for you and your family. Here are different types of pool systems to consider.
Types of Pool Systems - Which One is For You?
The different types of pool systems include chlorinated systems, saltwater systems, UV systems, ozone systems, and hydroxyl-based advanced oxidation systems.
Chlorinated Systems
Pros
Traditional chlorine is the most common form of pool sanitation, and for good reason. Chlorine oxidizes contaminants in water through a chemical reaction and works with almost all pool materials. It acts as a residual sanitizer, cleaning the pool long after it’s been added to the water.
Cons
Chlorine poses a high risk of chlorine-related health issues such as dry skin, lung irritation, allergies, asthma and other health issues. Many pool owners also avoid chlorine because it can damage towels and swimsuits, leave a lingering odor and is toxic to the environment.
Saltwater Systems
Pros
Compared to chlorinated pools, saltwater systems require lower maintenance and have less noticeable harmful effects of disinfection byproducts. Saltwater pools also have a soft feel and can come in numerous designs.
Cons
Despite popular belief, saltwater pools are not entirely free of chlorine. These pools produce low levels of chlorine from sodium chloride. As such, there are still disinfection byproducts. Like chlorine systems, saltwater systems also require manual handling and storage.
UV Systems
Pros
These systems work by flowing water over a UV bulb that destroys bacteria in the water passing over it. They offer a reliable form of secondary sanitation by reducing toxic waste while destroying unwanted contaminants and chlorine-resistant microbes.
Cons
UV systems sterilize bacteria in water but leave them intact, which means they can potentially make their way back to the pool. and since they can only treat water that passes through them, they don’t provide continuous, residual pool sanitation.
Ozone Systems
Pros
Ozone systems use advanced oxidation to inject ozone gas into the pool to oxidize chlorine-resistant microbes and pool contaminants. They’re up to 100 times stronger than traditional chlorine and reduce the amount of chlorine you need for the pool. Like saltwater systems, they can also make your pool water feel softer.
Cons
Since ozone systems can’t provide complete and continuous sanitation, they also require a residual sanitizer such as chlorine. Ozone is also a toxic gas that can accumulate under pool covers or in pool pump rooms.
Hydroxyl-Based Advanced Oxidation Systems (AOP)
Pros
These systems treat ambient air to create hydroxyls that oxidize unwanted organic contaminants. They’re the most powerful oxidative compounds for pool water treatment. With this system, you can enjoy a clean, chlorine-free, soft-feeling pool without disinfection byproducts.
Cons
Like UV, ozone and saltwater systems, hydroxyl-based advanced oxidation systems require an occasional algaecide for outdoor pools. The system also comes at a premium price.
Bottom Line
Understanding the different types of pool systems allows you to choose a system that best suits your needs, material and what kind of style your pool is based on the trends. Regardless of the pool treatment method you choose, it’s important to take care of your pool. Check that all pool elements are within recommended levels when you’re building and maintaining your pool.
