Healthy Alternatives to Pool Chemicals

Having a clean, safe, and clear swimming pool is a top priority for every pool owner in Arizona. The most common way to keep swimming pool water clean is to use chlorine and other pool chemicals. However, more and more people are moving away from chlorine pools and looking for more health and environmentally safe options to harmful chemicals.

There are certainly ways to lower chlorine consumption and shift away from using chlorine and other chemicals in outdoor pools. However, it often takes an investment, time, and other considerations to move away from chlorinated pools. Especially to prevent signs of chemical imbalance in your pool.

Why Consider Alternatives to Traditional Pool Chemicals?

Some people might not even realize that there are alternatives to traditional pool chemicals. Yes, these chemicals can make the pool water clean and free of bacteria and algae, but there are also downsides.

For instance, chlorine often causes skin and eye irritation. Red eyes are common in swimmers who have prolonged exposure to chlorine, and allergic reactions can also occur.

Fumes from swimming pools can cause respiratory system issues and add even more potential health risks. There are also environmental factors to consider like chlorinated pool water entering storm drains or natural bodies of water.

These concerns have led many homeowners to seek healthier alternatives that are just as effective—without the harsh side effects. In hopes of preventing common mistakes using pool chemicals.

Here are some of the ways pool owners can treat their pools, or even hot tubs, with alternatives to chemicals.

Saltwater Pools

One of the most popular alternatives to traditional chlorine systems is the saltwater pool.

How It Works

Unlike chlorine, saltwater pools use a chlorine generator, also known as a salt chlorinator, to convert salt (sodium chloride) into a small amount of chlorine. This salt system keeps the pool clean but eliminates the need to manually add chlorine.

Benefits

The water in a saltwater pool feels better on the skin and it causes less skin irritation. Since there is no need to add additional chlorine, the pool is still sanitized without exposure. Finally, once the water chemistry is established, it's much easier to properly maintain the pool when compared with traditional systems.

Drawbacks

A saltwater system can be more expensive to set up when compared with a traditional chlorine pool. There is also a corrosion chance if not managed properly.

Ozone Pool Systems

Ozone is a powerful oxidizer and disinfectant that can be used to sanitize pool water.

How It Works

An ozone generator is installed in the pool's filtration system. As the filter runs, it injects ozone gas into the water. This kills bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens on contact.

Benefits

Ozone is a very strong disinfected, which actually kills microorganisms better than chlorine does. In some cases, ozone isn't enough and pool owners still need to add a small amount of chlorine or bromine to keep levels safe. Finally, since ozone breaks down into oxygen, it is very environmentally friendly.

Drawbacks

One of the main considerations of an ozone pool system is the cost. It's expensive to install when compared to cost effective traditional pool systems. Also, since ozone gas only stays in the water for a very short time, the system must run all the time.

UV Pool Systems

Ultraviolet (UV) sanitation systems are another chemical-free option that’s gaining traction among Arizona pool owners.

How It Works

A UV light system is installed in the filtration line. As pool water passes through, the UV light destroys harmful microorganisms.

Benefits

A UV light purifies the water without chemicals, but it might not be totally enough to fully improve water quality. It is, however, a safe and natural option to use fewer chemicals in the pool.

Drawbacks

UV light systems might only be a partial solution. Oftentimes, a pool still requires a small amount of chlorine or other chemicals. Similar to an ozone system, a UV light has a higher investment than other systems.

Mineral Pool Systems

Mineral systems use naturally occurring elements like silver and copper ions to sanitize water.

How It Works

Mineral cartridges are added to the pool filters. These minerals use processes like copper ionization to inhibit bacteria and algae growth, allowing for reduced chlorine usage.

Benefits

By using natural antimicrobial agents like silver and copper, the water is naturally sanitized. Since there are fewer chemicals, the water also feels better on the skin.

Drawbacks

As with other systems, a mineral pool system still often requires supplemental chlorine. Also, the cartridges that are used in these systems to clean water need to be replaced fairly often. For help with pool problems, an Expert Pool Repair Tucson may be able to help.

Natural Pools (Swimming Ponds)

Natural swimming pools are also becoming more popular. These pools use biological filters and plants, like water lilies, to keep the water clean without chemicals.

How It Works

These pools are set up with two zones. One that is a swimming area and the other that is referred to as a regeneration zone, which is filled with plants or water gardens. The plants produce beneficial bacteria to naturally break down contaminants and organic matter.

Benefits

A natural pool is totally chemical free, and it's perfect for those who want to rely totally on nature for disinfection. This is an eco-friendly option, and it attracts animals like birds and pollinators, which also help the environment. Finally, these pools look like a calm and serene pond instead of a traditional pool.

Drawbacks

A pool like this has a high, upfront cost. Since there are two zones in the pool, it requires more space than a traditional pool, too. Finally, even in Arizona, this might have to be a seasonal option, as you can't put a heater in these pools.

Choosing the Right Alternative for an Arizona Pool

There are a few things to consider for those who want to look into an alternative to pool chemicals.

• Budget - Some systems are quite expensive, such as ozone and UV systems. These have a higher upfront cost, but they can save money long term.

• Health concerns - Not all of these system will eliminate total use of chlorine or other chemicals. For those who want a totally natural option, a natural pool or mineral system is the best choice.

• Maintenance - Some of these systems require a lot of maintenance. Others, like a saltwater pool, don't require a lot of maintenance after they are set up.

  
  

A Healthier, Cleaner Pool is Possible

Many people in Arizona have pools, but that doesn't mean that they have to rely on harsh chemicals to keep their pool clean. Working with a company like E-Konomy Pool Service & Supplies can help Tucson area pool owners have a cleaner and healthier pool that is lower maintenance and better for the family and environment.