In our previous post about ozone pools, we introduced the system and highlighted its benefits as an eco-conscious choice for pool sanitation. Now, we’ll delve deeper into how an ozone pool system works, from ozone generation and injection to the oxidation process and integration with your pool pump. Understanding how these systems work can help you decide if they’re the right fit for your pool’s maintenance.
An ozone pool system isn’t just about reducing chemicals; it’s about embracing a highly efficient, environmentally friendly technology. So, how does an ozone pool system work to keep your pool water clean?
What is Ozone Generation?
Ozone (O₃) is a powerful form of oxygen that has an extra atom, making it highly reactive and effective at breaking down contaminants. In pool systems, ozone is generated in one of two ways:
- UV Light Ozone Generators: These systems use a UV bulb to produce ozone by exposing oxygen (O₂) in the air to UV light at a specific wavelength. This process splits the oxygen, forming ozone. UV ozone generators produce smaller amounts of ozone, making them ideal for smaller residential pools.
- Corona Discharge (CD) Ozone Generators: Commonly used for medium to large pools, corona discharge systems use an electrical arc to split oxygen molecules, creating a higher concentration of ozone than UV systems can. This process generates more ozone, which is better suited to sanitising larger volumes of water.
So, how does an ozone pool system work from here? The generated ozone gas is directed into the pool water, where it immediately begins its sanitisation process.
How is Ozone Mixed into Pool Water?
To sanitise the pool effectively, the ozone must be thoroughly mixed with the water. This is done through an ozone injection system, which ensures the gas spreads evenly:
- Venturi Injector: The venturi injector is a narrow, high-speed nozzle where water flows rapidly, creating a vacuum effect that draws ozone gas into the water stream. This high-speed mixing ensures the ozone is evenly distributed throughout the water for maximum sanitisation.
- Contact Chamber: After injection, the water flows into a contact chamber, allowing the ozone more time to interact with contaminants. The chamber maximises exposure, enabling the ozone to effectively neutralise bacteria, viruses, and organic particles before the water re-enters the pool. The longer the contact time, the more effective the sanitisation.
This two-step process is critical as it ensures that ozone has the time and contact it needs to neutralise contaminants.
How Does the Sanitisation Process Work?
The real strength of an ozone pool system lies in its high oxidation potential, enabling it to break down contaminants quickly and efficiently.
- Molecular Breakdown: Ozone (O₃) is highly reactive, thanks to its extra oxygen atom. When it encounters contaminants like bacteria or other organic matter, the extra oxygen atom attaches to and breaks down these contaminants at a molecular level, rendering them harmless.
- Residue-Free Sanitisation: Unlike chlorine, which leaves chemical residues, ozone decomposes back into regular oxygen (O₂) after oxidising contaminants. This leaves the water residue-free, making it gentler on the skin and eyes and safer for prolonged exposure.
This oxidation process is the heart of an ozone system, as it sanitises effectively without leaving any by-products, offering a clean, comfortable swimming experience.
Excess Ozone Management for Safety
Since ozone is a strong oxidiser, managing any excess is essential for safe operation. Undissolved or excess ozone is safely handled by a de-gas valve:
- De-gas Valve: Located in the contact chamber, the de-gas valve releases undissolved ozone gas from the system before the water re-enters the pool. This prevents leftover ozone from accumulating in the pool, which could affect swimmers or disrupt water chemistry.
- Ozone Dissipation: Ozone is naturally unstable, and any excess quickly breaks down into oxygen (O₂), especially in open-air environments. Any small amount of ozone that enters the pool area will naturally revert to oxygen, posing no risk to swimmers.
Integrating with Your Current Pool Pump
For optimal performance, an ozone pool system is synchronised with the pool’s circulation pump, creating an automated sanitisation loop:
- Pump Synchronisation: The ozone generator connects directly to the pool pump, so it only operates when water is actively circulating. This means ozone is produced only when needed, enhancing efficiency and minimising waste.
- Automated System Control: Advanced ozone pool systems come with automated controls that adjust ozone output based on the pool’s sanitisation needs. By monitoring factors like water flow and organic load, these systems can fine-tune ozone production, ensuring consistent sanitisation without manual adjustments.
Take a More Sustainable Swim with Pool Assist
Ozone pool systems offer more than just a different form of sanitisation for pool owners. By using a natural method to clean your swimming pool water, you’re less likely to need heavy-duty chemicals to get that crystal-clear oasis you’re looking for.
If you’re interested in learning more about how an ozone pool system works, get in touch with our team at Pool Assist. We can walk you through what exactly an ozone system can do for you, offer tailored advice, and even have our technicians give you an in-store demonstration.