Ensuring clean and safe water in a swimming pool is essential—not just for aesthetics, but for health and hygiene. While regular filtration removes visible debris, it is not enough to stop the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. That’s why disinfection is a critical step in water treatment, preventing infections and ensuring a comfortable swimming environment.
The Most Common Pool Disinfection Method: Chlorine
The most widely used method is the application of chlorine-based chemicals. Chlorine remains the go-to solution for most residential pools, thanks to its broad-spectrum effectiveness and affordability.
Advantages of Chlorine:
- Low cost and easy availability
- Proven efficacy against many pathogens
- Long-lasting disinfection
- Approved by health authorities
- Disinfects both water and pool surfaces
Disadvantages of Chlorine:
- Less effective against certain microorganisms
- Produces by-products like chloramines
- Can irritate skin, eyes, and mucous membranes
- Requires constant dosage monitoring
- Strong odor when reacting with organic matter
Although chlorine has been the traditional disinfection method, modern alternatives such as bromine or active oxygen-based treatments (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) are increasingly used to reduce chemical exposure.
Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection: A Growing Alternative
UV disinfection systems are gaining popularity in pool water treatment. These systems use ultraviolet lamps installed in the water circulation line. As water passes through the UV chamber, it is exposed to 254 nm UV-C light, which destroys the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, rendering them harmless.
Benefits of UV Disinfection:
- Neutralizes up to 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and fungi
- No chemical by-products
- Does not alter the water’s chemical composition
- Safe for skin, eyes, and the environment
However, UV treatment only works at the moment water passes through the UV lamp, and has no residual effect. For this reason, it is typically used in combination with other methods, especially in larger or public pools.
The Optimal Approach: UV + Chlorine
The most effective strategy is a combined method, using UV disinfection alongside low-dose chlorine. This hybrid approach is widely supported by both industry practices and regulatory guidelines, as it can reduce chlorine concentration by up to three times, while also minimizing chloramine formation.
Key Advantages of the Combined Approach:
- Enhanced microbial control
- Reduced chemical odor and irritation
- Less chemical exposure for swimmers
- Lower operating costs due to reduced reagent usage
UVL-AQUA POOL: Efficient UV Systems for Swimming Pools
If you're looking for a safe and reliable solution for water disinfection in your private or commercial pool, explore the UVL-AQUA POOL series — from UVL-AQUA POOL 15 to UVL-AQUA POOL 245, depending on your pool size and flow rate.
UVL systems:
- Eliminate up to 99.9% of pathogens
- Are compatible with saltwater and freshwater pools
- Do not affect pH or chemical balance
- Require minimal maintenance and offer long lamp life
Whether your pool is large or small, indoor or outdoor, our specialists can help you choose the optimal UV solution tailored to your specific requirements.
