Ideal Distributors Limited - Copper Silver Ion use with Ponds and Fountains

Ponds & Fountains

IDS ion systems can be a great benefit when used on ponds and fountains.The system, once installed is effective in controlling algae while at the same time, is safe for surrounding plants and environment. The system operates virtually automatically with the minimum amount of user intervention. It helps reduce chemical costs as well as the ongoing maintenance required.

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. 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, electrode set, copper test kit, and instructions. Depending on the size of the application, there may be multiple controllers and/or multiple flow cells and electrode sets. Each ion system is designed and sized to a specific application.

Installation: Installation is generally done directly in line in smaller residential fountains. In larger applications it is installed in a bypass manifold. From there the operation of the fountain is as normal.

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. After a day or so, a copper test is performed on the sump water to determine the copper level in solution. We suggest an initial reading of .5 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.

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 no chemical smell.

250 MPC | 350 MPC | 450 MPC | 1000 MPC | 250/450 Setup | 1000 Setup | FAQ's

<<<Home>>>