Is Ionization a Green Product?

Yes, ionization is and has been used in both residential and Green Certified Hotel and other commercial applications.

 

Does ionization work as well as chlorination?

YES. Both systems have been approved by the National Sanitation Foundation International standard 50. NSF International is a non-profit independent certifying organization that uses a consensus process to develop uniform minimum requirements to protect public health. Their approval means that the systems were run as directed for 8000 hours and were just as effective at disinfecting pools as was the traditional 2-3 ppm chlorine.

 

How does it work?

Copper and silver ions are toxic to microbial life, as is chlorine. All three interfere with crucial life-sustaining activities for these tiny entities. Studies have indicated that very small concentrations of copper and silver ions, when used with low -level chlorine, kill bacteria and viruses as efficiently as higher levels of chlorine, and that low levels of the copper and silver ions alone are effective in killing algae and fungi. Some studies even indicated that the use of 300 to 400 ppb of copper and 40 ppb of silver combined with 0.1 to 0.4 ppm of chlorine is MORE effective than higher levels of chlorine in limiting a number of micro-organisms, including coliform. (ref. 2,3)

 

Why should I switch?

It is a Green Product containing less toxic exposures - Chlorine poses many risks that the copper and silver ions do not, many of which are not obvious to the swimmer. Chlorine ions undergo reactions in the pool to form chemicals such as trihalomethanes (THM), which can enter the body through ingestion or absorption. Some studies have linked exposure to THM with cancer, organ damage, and other health problems. Currently there are no regulations for THM in swimming pools. In contrast, silver and copper ions are chemically stable and do not undergo reactions to create more toxic chemicals. In addition, at the levels of exposure in a pool, they do not pose a risk to swimmers.

 

Preserve your pool - Chlorine is a corrosive chemical that contributes heavily to the deterioration of pool linings, pipes and equipment. Humidity combines with chlorine fumes in indoor pool areas and infiltrates the concrete of the pool facility. It can actually rust the metal building supports and lead to the cracking and eventual rusting of the pool walls and equipment. Copper and silver ions are not as corrosive at the required levels as chlorine is, so switching will reduce the corrosion to your pool and pipes.

 

Reduce chemical use - Chlorine evaporates quickly from the water, and must constantly be replaced. Copper and silver do not evaporate as quickly, staying present in the water for a much longer period of time, thus, reducing the amount that must be continually added. The amount of chlorine is also drastically reduced in this system, from 2 ppm to 0.4 ppm. Depending on the size pool and system installed, chlorine usage can be reduced as much as 60% to 80%.

 

Reduced irritation - Chlorine is harsh on human skin, eyes and hair, causing rashes on some swimmers. In contrast, the copper and silver ions used in the ionization process are not as irritating to eyes and skin as is chlorine. In addition, with the reduced level of chlorine required in this system, swimmers will not experience as severe irritation.

 

Worker safety - Concentrated chlorine can burn flesh and eyes, the fumes can be overwhelming and it is very flammable. On the other hand, the copper and silver bar that produces the ions pose an almost negligent risk to worker health and safety. Unlike chlorine stores, they will not spill and do not pose an inhalation risk when opened.

 

Is SAS suitable for commercial use?

SAS is effective in almost all means of water sanitation including, but not limited to residential, commercial, agricultural, hot water systems, cooling towers and marine mammal tank applications.