Chlorine Alternatives - 5 Pool Systems That Help Reduce Chlorine

Over chlorinated water isn’t a rare occurrence in residential swimming pools. More and more people are seeking alternative pool systems to lower chlorine levels. 

Having too much chlorine in your pool can cause health concerns, like rashes, bouts of asthma, and eye or throat pain. Many pool owners want to do what’s best for their family’s health, while some simply don’t like the smell of it.

So when you’re looking to strike a balance between figuring out how to reduce pool chlorine and keeping your water free of bacteria, you might want to consider any of these 5 chlorine alternatives.

Salt Chlorinator

Besides chlorine saltwater systems are the second most common method for sanitizing your pool. A saltwater pool is not completely chlorine-free. Although it dramatically cuts back the amount of chlorine you need to regulate your pool, it just produces its own chlorine. 

A chlorine generator uses a reaction called electrolysis to turn salt into Sodium Hydroxide and Chlorine. The amount of chlorine being produced is significantly lower than in a regular chlorine pool.

It’s an effective and sustainable way to keep your pool sanitized without the storage and use of chemically manufactured chlorine. It also cuts back your maintenance and chemical costs. 

However, salt is corrosive and your equipment, decking, and other accessories will be subject to a shorter life. This is why wood sided above ground pools are better suited for salt systems than metal above ground pools.

Mineral Systems

A mineral system can cut your need for chlorine by about 50% and reduce the likelihood of bouts of algae. 

Mineral systems, like the pool frog mineral system made by King Technology, have the added benefit of being less corrosive than either salt or other chlorine-based systems. This means there will be less wear and tear on your pool equipment, and the pool’s surrounding area. 

However, a mineral system isn’t effective enough to completely eliminate the need for chlorine. You will still need to maintain chlorine levels close to 0.5 PPM but it’s easy to maintain, better for your pool, and your body.

UV Systems

UV systems are another great alternative to traditional chlorine pools. It works by using ultra-violet rays that eliminates pathogens and other forms of bacteria while the water passes through the system.

Although your need for chlorine will be drastically lower you will still need to use it to prevent algae growth. With proper maintenance and regular chemical testing, a UV system can help you keep your pool clean. 

The downside of UV systems is the higher upfront cost, as you need to install the hardware but once it is running it can cut chemical costs nearly in half.

Ozone Systems

An ozone pool system like OxygenPools works by injecting ozone into your pool, killing off water contaminants and microbes. They’re especially useful for systems with hard water since they prevent stain and scale build-up. 

However, ozone can take a while to cycle through all of the water in your pool. This is why a lower dose of chlorine, around 0.5 ppm is still necessary.

Copper-Based Systems

Last but not least is a copper-based pool system such as PristineBlue. It releases copper ions into your pool water. Copper is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used to sanitize water since the Romans and pioneers first needed a way to keep their water clean. 

Although you still need to shock your pool once a week, PristineBlue reduces the amount of chlorine needed and makes your water feel softer. It is also much less corrosive on your pool equipment and won’t cause bathing suits to fade.

Using These 5 Alternatives Will Reduce Chlorine in Your Pool

Chlorine is popular because it’s cheap, and it effectively controls organic material in your pool. But if you are looking for a sustainable chlorine alternative to prioritize your family’s safety and health, any of the alternative pool systems above will be a great substitute. 

For more information and to find out what system is best for your pool contact us or visit our store at 3 Newton Junction Road in Kingston, NH.