Ideal Distributors Limited - Commercial Copper Silver Ion System

Commercial Pools & Spas

For years, operators of commercial pool have sought improvements to the chemicals used to sanitize the water in their pools and spas. There are many reasons. Users are more critical than ever of the quality of air and water in these facilities. Constant and effective sanitation is required; algae control is important; operating costs are always an issue; chemical safety and disposal is a concern and the environmental issue is stronger now than ever before.

Based on these reasons, it makes good sense to examine systems that will address these situations. Copper/silver ion systems are proven, efficient and effective in helping improve water quality as well as control algae, bacteria and virus in pools and spas.

A number of tests and reports show improved performance can be achieved from chlorine by combining it with an ion system.

Here is a bit of background. In the 1960's and early 1970's, the Johnson Space Center and NASA conducted a research program aimed at the development of a small, lightweight water purifier that required minimal power and no astronaut monitoring. They developed an electrolytic silver ion generator only slightly larger than a pager and weighing only nine ounces. These systems, mounted at various locations in the potable water supply and waste water system of the spacecraft, would dispense silver ions sufficient to eliminate bacteria and purify the water within a few hours.

This information was made available to the industry and from this beginning, one of the world's most advanced water purification systems was developed. It is capable of handling water volumes into the millions of gallons and used in many different applications. Pools and spas, fountains, cooling towers and injection molding systems routinely use ionization as a means of water sanitation.

In very basic terms, the IDS ion system works as follows. An anode, made of a proportion of copper and silver, and cathode are placed in a chamber. This chamber, or flow cell as it is more commonly called, is mounted in the recirculation system. A controller sends signals to the anode causing microscopic particles (ions) of copper and silver to be dispensed into the water as it passes through the flow cell. The copper destroys the algae and bacteria by piercing the outer membrane and disrupting enzyme balance. Silver is effective as a sanitizer because of its efficiency in interrupting DNA production preventing reproduction and accelerating the death phase of the bacteria and viruses. It has been proven to be very effective in its ability to destroy legionella, a particular concern in hot water applications. While lethal to bacteria, many viruses and algae, the system is completely safe for humans, animals and plants.

Following is a brief explanation as to the installation and operation of the ion system.

Ion System: Each system comes complete with a controller, flow cell, anode, copper test kit, and instructions. Depending on the size of pool, there may be multiple controllers and/or multiple flow cells and anodes. Each ion system is designed and sized to a specific application.

Installation: Installation is generally done in the way of a manifold bypass to the main recirculating system. The reason for this is to be able to adjust the flow of water through the flow cells as well as being able to isolate the system to check or replace electrodes.

Installation requirements are minimal. The system requires AC power for the ion system controller. There needs to be access to the system for occasional electrode inspection.

Operation: The ion system, once installed, is turned on to mid level to start dispensing ions into the water. A requirement of ionization is that there be some TDS level present to allow the process to take place. This is generally not a problem as most water has some mineral content and the standard water balance provides a suitable level. After a day or so, a copper test is performed to determine the copper level in solution. We suggest an initial reading of .3 ppm. If that level is present the controller is left as is. If the level is low, the system is turned up slightly, or if the level is exceeded, the system is turned down. This is a start point and the levels can be adjusted from there to achieve the desired results. We recommend the testing be done every couple of days until an effective level is achieved. After that, a weekly reading is usually sufficient. Water balance and chemistry is adjusted in the normal method.

Advantages: There are a number of advantages to the system. Unlike standard sanitizing chemicals, ions are relatively unaffected by pH, temperature, aeration or sunlight. As they are not as prone to evaporation or dissipation, they tend to remain resident in the water to provide longer lasting and more constant purification. New ions are added automatically as the water circulates. Operating costs and maintenance are low. From a health standpoint, it is completely safe as no toxic chemicals are produced or consumed. The system is environmentally friendly. The water is healthy, sanitary and odor free. Water quality is improved dramatically. The water feels fresh and clean with reduced chemical smell. Ions are chemically neutral, so water balance is often easier to maintain. Operating costs and maintenance are low. The system is easily installed as there is no challenge to any building, health or WCB code. Operation is straightforward and is easily understood by all staff.

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