UV Clear Pool Sanitizer Cleaning System - FAQ
How does UV Clear work?
Water is conducted through the chamber of the device where it is exposed to the UV-C band, also known as the germicidal range. At 253.7 nanometers, the light penetrates cell walls of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms, altering the DNA or the RNA as in the case of viruses. This process inactivates cells so they are no longer able to replicate. A cell that can no longer reproduce is considered dead. Using UV-C is a chemical free disinfection method that can also deplete chloramines. Organic pollutants and chloramines (a disinfectant by product of chlorine), is often the cause of odor detected in pools and spas.
Is it safe for bathers and the environment?
UV Clear® does not emit chemicals into the water and does not impart taste or odor. We are setting an industry standard to help protect you and your loved ones from bacteria, viruses and germs without the skin and eye irritations most commonly found by overdosing your pool with chemicals. With UV Clear®, you can remain in the water while the water is being disinfected. Enjoy swimming in a cleaner, safer and more natural environment with UV Clear®.
How is UV-C different from ozone generators? The short wave UV-C band from the lamp provides a strong germicidal effect as water flows through the reactor chamber. Our systems do not form ozone. UV Clear® Systems is cost effective, safe, easy to operate, easy to install, uses less components, is efficient and requires little maintenance or monitoring. We have found that UV Clear® Systems works with ozone generators for noticeable clearer water. This advanced oxidation method is implemented for treating water at municipal and industrial levels.
Is it easy to use and maintain? With UV Clear® Systems, pool and spa owners' demands for simplicity are met. The quartz glass sleeve that shields the lamp from water needs to be cleaned once or twice a year. UV Clear® Systems can offer peace of mind with continuous operation even when sanitizer residual levels fall below normal.
Is chlorine necessary? Chlorine residual is necessary with the use of our system. The addition of UV Clear® Systems to a chlorinated system will allow bathers to achieve a suitable level of sanitizing while using significantly less chlorine and additional chemicals.
When do the lamps need to be replaced? The useful lamp life is 9,000 hours. If hardwired to the pump's automatic timer and operates for 8 hours daily, then the lamp should be replaced in 3 years. If the pump operates 12 hours daily, then replace the lamp in 2 years. If the lamp operates continuously, then replace the lamp in 1 year.
How is the system installed? The units are plumbed in-line or installed as a by-pass unit with the pool's filtration system. Install after the filter and before the heater. Head over to the Installation Page for a more detailed explanation.
What is the flow rate? A common industry benchmark is 90% kill on first pass for E-coli. A typical one HP pool pump can cycle about 4,200 gallons per hour (approx. 66gpm), with a head pressure of 60 ft. of water, or 26 psi. Based on these figures, one 15,000 unit per 15,000 gallons of pool capacity is recommended.
Does UV Clear® work with traditional and alternative chemical feeders and generators? UV Clear® works with chlorine and bromine generators, salt water generators, mineralizers, ionizers and with ozone generators for advanced oxidation. Chlorination is still widely used but, with the addition of UV Clear® and low chlorine residual this system should be embraced by bathers that prefer to swim or soak in a more natural environment.
Why do the openings oppose each other on the housing? Water flows in the path of least resistance. The opposed positioning of the inlet and outlet was designed for the mixing of water flowing through the chamber.
Will UV degrade chlorine? UV from the sun optimally degrades free chlorine in the UV-B (medium wave) wavelength around 290 nanometers. UV-C effectively degrades monochloramine (a disinfectant by product of chlorine). Remember that UV Clear® works in the UV-C or short wavelength found in the electromagnetic spectrum.