Ionisers are an alternative method of swimming pool treatment.   The method involves using an electrolytic process where a current is passed between two electrodes, usually made from a copper/silver combination, to impart copper and

BATHURST

IONISER FACTS

silver traces into the pool water.   

The copper controls algea,whilst silver controls bacteria.   Because neither offer any oxidising capacity, usually an oxidiser is used to ‘burn off’ particles.

Mostly, in order to maintain the chlorine free status of the pool water, monopersulphate or hydrogen peroxide is used as the oxidiser.

Other water chemistry parameters, such as pH and total alkalinity, are maintained as normal with acid and base.

Copper/silver systems require the use of a copper test kit to indicate ion test levels in the water and as both copper and silver ions are being dispersed at the same time it is only necessary to check for the presence of one to know the other.

The rate of ion creation is proportional to the ratio of copper and silver in the electrode.

A Copper test is performed much as you would test for chlorine residue. A level of copper in the range of 0.15 through 0.20 ppm, a pH of 7.2 through 7.4 and a total alkalinity of 80 - 100 ppm is recommended.

Monopersulphate can be used to get rid of organic contaminants and removes the slimy protective bio shield that forms over algae.

Chlorine can also be used for this purpose. The dosage rate is 1kg per 70,000 litres for a monopersulfate compound (non-chlorine shock).   Liquid chlorine can be used at the rate of 600mL per 35,000 litres added in the evening so it has gone by morning.