UV disinfection for pools: what are the advantages?

The benefits of a UV disinfection system for your pool 

Pool maintenance involves making sure the water is constantly clean and healthy for bathers. Amongst modern disinfection methods, the use of UV systems stands out due to their effectiveness and many advantages. Here is everything you need to know about UV disinfection systems, and some advice on how to make the most of them. 

Why should you opt for a UV disinfection system? 

Problems relating to disinfection of the pool water 

Keeping the water in your pool healthy and clean poses several challenges. In particular, the deterioration of pool equipment due to aggressive chemicals which cause corrosion, leading to high replacement and repair costs. Another challenge is the complex nature of maintenance, since balancing the water requires frequent tests and regular adjustments which make maintenance time-consuming. 

Presence of micro-organisms in your pool 

Pool water can contain a variety of micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses and algae. These contaminants can cause infections and illnesses, and bathing can become an unpleasant and potentially dangerous activity. 

The use of chemical products such as chlorine 

Chlorine is frequently used in disinfecting pool water. However, there are disadvantages to using it. Chlorine is an irritant to the skin and eyes, which can cause cutaneous and ocular irritation for those using the pool, making bathing unpleasant. Chlorine also gives off a disagreeable smell. Indeed, chloramines, created by the reaction between chlorine and organic matter, are responsible for the classic smell of swimming pools. In addition, it can have limited effectiveness against certain resistant micro-organisms. 

What is UV disinfection? 

UV disinfection uses ultraviolet rays to destroy the micro-organisms present in the pool water. These rays enter the cells of bacteria, viruses and algae, and disturb their DNA, making it impossible for them to reproduce and cause infections. This process is both rapid and effective, guaranteeing clean water without added chemicals. It’s magic, isn’t it? 

How does a UV disinfection system work? 

The role of a UV lamp in water treatment 

UV disinfection uses ultraviolet rays to destroy the micro-organisms present in the pool water. These rays enter the cells of bacteria, viruses and algae, and disturb their DNA, making it impossible for them to reproduce and cause infections. This process is both rapid and effective, guaranteeing clean water without added chemicals. It’s magic, isn’t it? 

The process of disinfection by UV radiation 

The UV radiation disinfection system is an effective method for keeping your pool water clean and safe without using aggressive chemicals. This is how it works: 

1. Water circulation: The pool water is pumped through the filtration system to eliminate debris. 

2. Pass through the UV unit: After filtration, the water passes through a UV disinfection unit. This unit contains a UV lamp which emits ultraviolet rays. 

3. Destruction of micro-organisms: UV rays pass through the water and destroy micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses and algae by damaging their DNA. This makes them incapable of reproducing and causing infections or problems in the water. 

4. Return to the pool: once it has been disinfected, the water is returned to the pool, thus sustaining a clean, safe environment for bathers. 

Comparison with other methods of water treatment: 

Contrary to other chemicals, UV disinfection does not irritate the skin or eyes and does not produce a smell. It is also more eco-friendly since no chemicals are added to the water. In addition, by combining a UV system with other treatment methods, such as salt chlorination, even more comprehensive and effective disinfection can be achieved. 

The advantages of UV disinfection 

1. Improved effectiveness: UV systems eliminate a wide range of micro-organisms, including those that are resistant to traditional chemical treatments. With these systems, even the toughest bacteria won’t stand a chance! 

2. Safety for bathers: contrary to chemical disinfectants, UV rays leave no residue in the water, thus reducing the risks of irritation of the skin and eyes. The only tears in the pool will be tears of joy! 

3. Eco-responsibility: sterilisation of the water with UV does not involve adding any chemicals to the water, which is beneficial for the environment and reduces the consumption of chemicals. 

4. Reduced maintenance: this system reduces the quantity of chlorine required to maintain clean water, which simplifies pool management and reduces long-term costs. 5. Improvement of water quality: UV-treated water is clearer and more pleasant to bathe in, without the off-putting smell of chlorine. 

Advice for optimising the use of your UV system 

• Complementarity with other systems: using a UV system in combination with other disinfection methods, such as salt chlorination, can offer double protection and optimise water quality. UV neutralises nasty microbes, whilst salt chlorination maintains chemical equilibrium. Together, they make sure your water is not only disinfected (UV and free radicals) and gains disinfecting properties (salt chlorination), but is also of flawless quality. The objective is to obtain healthy, translucent water with the least possible chlorine. 
• Suitable installation: make sure your UV system is installed correctly and sized appropriately for your pool. Professional installation guarantees optimal operation. 
• Regular maintenance: UV lamps have a limited lifetime and must be regularly replaced to ensure they remain effective. Follow the replacement intervals recommended by the manufacturer. 

Hayward products for optimal UV sterilisation 

To benefit from the advantages of a UV disinfection system, Hayward offers high quality products, designed to guarantee flawless pool water. For example, the AquaRite® UV LS NG salt chlorinator combines salt chlorination with UV disinfection, creating a dual action that produces perfect pool water. It transforms dissolved salt into natural chlorine whilst using UV radiation to eliminate 99% of undesirable elements such as chloramines, algae, bacteria and other micro-organisms, thus guaranteeing total disinfection and optimal water quality. 

Thanks to advanced water treatment solutions, maintaining your pool is becoming child’s play. You can say goodbye to aggressive chemicals and hello to clean, clear, trouble-free water! Discover the benefits of water that has been perfectly disinfected using Hayward’s UV systems and dive into the serenity of crystal-clear water!