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Chlorine Alternative for Pool or Hot Tub |
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Q : |
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I'm researching information of what to use for my spa or hot tub. I have been looking for information on your website but have not found anything on this topic. I am looking for an alternative to using chlorine or Bromine in our new spa. We had been using spamagic but I'm a little skeptical about continued use. Please advise. I'm allergic to chlorine.
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A :
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Answer (Published
April 08, 2007
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Your concern about chlorine is appropriate. There is strong evidence that you should avoid drinking chlorine and also bathing in it. This would include showering with municipal water that is chlorinated. This is particularly problematic in the shower because the temperature of the water is higher which increases the blood flow in your skin and increases your ability to absorb chlorine from the water.
With respect to pools or spas I would recommend ozone as the safest alternative. Ozone is one of natures most powerful oxidizers and purifier. It destroys bacteria on contact and prolongs and protects equipment life. it will attach and destroy, by oxidation, any offending molecule that gets in its path. Ozone rapidly decomposes leaving no traces, and does not produce any toxic compounds It is also safer for the environment as it is less corrosive in water than chlorine and less damaging to equipment with scale buildup in the heater and lines.
When you use chlorine trhialomethanes are a byrpoduct and have been previously associated with health problems. However, during the ozonation process this does not happen. In all reactions, the main byproduct after oxidation is oxygen. Ozonation does not change the pH, nor does it react with the remaining organics in water to produce carcinogenic compounds.
If the pool is outdoors you will need to shock it occasionally with a rapidly disappearing chlorine after a rain because the ozone isn't particularly good at killing algae spores. But otherwise that seems to be the best option as it should allow you to reduce chlorine use by over 90%.
I do NOT recommend using bromine or any other halogen as an alternative to chlorine as there is not much of a difference at all with respect to potential toxicity.
Today Reuters reported a European study that performed a survey of 624 swimming pool employees at six swimming pools. They measured trichloramine levels at all 38 pools included in the study to estimate long-term exposure among employees. Trichloramines are the most volatile type of chloramine, and are known to irritate the eyes and upper respiratory tract. The Dutch researchers found that swimming teachers and other people who spend a lot of time near chlorinated pools face an increased risk of breathing problems,
On the other hand, you could go all natural like some of Europe is doing and was discussed in a NY Times article last week.
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