UV systems are commonly used by city municipalities and commercial water treatment plants throughout the world for treating potable water.
But how do they work? In this article, we will take a look at the science behind spa ultraviolet sanitisers and find out how they keep your water healthy and safe!
UV light is one of the most effective ways to kill bacteria and viruses. When it comes to spa pools, spa UV sanitiser systems are a popular choice to help keep the water clean and free of harmful pathogens.
We recommend that you also use a chlorine or hydrogen peroxide sanitiser as mandated by the APVMA in Australia.
In this article, you'll learn:
UV technology is not new. In fact, you will find it purifying drinking water and public swimming pools around the world. A spa UV sanitiser system is a water treatment system that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to kill bacteria, viruses and other harmful microorganisms.
UV light is a type of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the human eye. When UV light comes into contact with DNA or RNA, it can break down genetic material and prevent the microorganism from reproducing.
This makes UV light an effective disinfectant against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi.
The ultra-violet light sterilizing system can kill up to 99.9% of viruses and bacteria in spa water. Using a UV Sterilizer system in addition to spa chemicals will provide the safest possible spa pool water.
Spa UV systems work by circulating water through a chamber where it is exposed to UV light. The length of time that the water spends in the chamber will depend on the specific system, but it is usually between 30 seconds and two minutes. During this time, UV light will remove many harmful microorganisms in the water.
UV systems help remove bacteria from your water and can lessen the need for chemical disinfectants. This can lead to reduced chemical costs.
Please note that you will still need to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the back of your chemical sanitiser alongside the UV system. The UV system is automatic and is continually helping remove the build-up of microorganisms in your spa water. This in turn reduces the load on the chemical sanitiser.
The process of sterilising your spa water with a UV system does not generate any chemical odour or chemical byproducts.
Spa UV systems only use a very small amount of power to operate and can be powered directly from your spa controller in many cases.
Low running costs and more efficient water sanitising, means that a UV system helps your spa make a low impact on the environment.
A UV sterilising system generates no byproducts and is an excellent choice, particularly for those with sensitive skin or respiratory issues.
Yes, UV sanitiser systems effectively disinfect spa pool water and keep it safe for users.
One study found that ultraviolet light was effective against a range of other common pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
Spa UV systems are an important part of a comprehensive water treatment regime and should be used in combination with other methods, such as ozone, chemical disinfection and filtration, to further improve water quality.
Yes, you will still need to use a sanitiser product in your spa pool even if you have a UV system installed. UV systems are designed to supplement your existing chemical disinfection program, not replace it.
Yes, spa UV systems are safe for both humans and animals. The UV light used in these systems is the same type of light that is used in hospitals and water treatment plants.
Yes, A UV system works well in conjunction with all chemical sanitisers and assists with removing bacteria and micro-organisms in your spa water. You will still need to sanitise with chemicals in accordance with the dosage recommendations on your sanitiser product.
Yes, most spa pools can have a UV system retrofitted if there is not one there already. There are a few factors to consider when you are determining if a UV system will work well with your existing spa.
Your spa controller needs to have a power output that turns the UV system on when the circulation cycle comes on.
Most common UV sanitisers require a 40mm plumbing connection to connect into your existing spa plumbing. Ideally, you need to be able to install a T section (40mm) in series after the heater.
There needs to be room inside your spa cabinet to install the UV unit in the right location so it will work correctly and give you the best result.
If you are unsure about any of these details, check with us for a list of recommended technicians in your area who can come and assess your spa and help you select the right UV sanitiser system.
Please note that all electrical work should be carried out by a licensed electrician or spa technician.
There are two main spa UV systems available for the Australian market- the Vortex® UV system and the UltraZone® UV-C + Ozone system,
Both of these can be retrofitted to many common Australian spas.
The Vortex® UV sanitiser system is a powerful yet affordable UV sanitiser system that can be retrofitted to many popular Australian spas.
This unit should be used in conjunction with your normal chemical sanitising regime as recommended by the instructions on your chemical sanitiser product.
This unit generates ozone gas which is then injected and mixed into the UV chamber. The UV then reacts with the ozone to create a powerful oxidiser to burn off unwanted organic matter, the result is crystal clear and clean water.
Sanitiser still needs to be used to maintain a residual and for shock treatments.
The UltraZone® system provides hygiene control at the flick of a switch. Every time you switch on your spa filter the UltraZone® cleans and sanitises your spa water resulting in crystal clear water free from ozone off-gas, chemical smells and irritations.
UltraZone® units are an easy retro-fit for new or existing spas. Simple to install, economical to run, better for your health. That's the UltraZone® difference.
Spa UV systems operate on UV 254nm which is within the range needed to effectively kill bacteria in water. (254 - 270nm) Source: Science Daily
If you are looking for a reliable and consistent way to keep your spa water sanitised, UV sanitisers may be the perfect solution for you.
Spa UV sterilizer systems offer a number of benefits:
Remember that in order for UV sanitisers to work properly, you will still need to use a quality sanitising product along with it.
Be sure to follow the dosage recommendations on your sanitiser closely so you can achieve the best results possible. Have any other questions about using UV sanitisers in your spa? Let us know and we would be happy to help!
Talk to us on live chat, or email us your spa UV questions and we'll be happy to help!
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