The 4 golden rules for effective UVC disinfection in the pool

A UVC disinfection system improves the water quality in the pool and reduces the use of chemical additives. However, a few important measures are required for it to perform to its full potential. The following four golden rules help to ensure hygienically clean water in the long term and to make optimum use of UVC disinfection.

1. optimum circulation of the pool water

Efficient circulation is crucial for the effectiveness of UVC disinfection. Without sufficient circulation, algae, bacteria and other impurities can accumulate in areas with poor circulation.

• The entire pool contents should circulate through the UVC disinfection system at least three times a day.
• In the event of increased algae formation, for example after heavy rain or intense sunshine, it is advisable to increase the circulation rate by a factor of 3.5 to 4.
• If the circulation rate is too low, parts of the water may not be sufficiently irradiated - which reduces the effect of UVC disinfection.
• The pump capacity must match the pool size. Larger pools require correspondingly more powerful pumps.

Additional tip: Cloudy or foul-smelling water may occasionally require filter optimization or shock chlorination.

2. regular cleaning of walls and floor

Effective water treatment also includes maintaining the pool structure itself. Algae, biofilm and other deposits can build up on the walls and floor, especially in corners and hard-to-reach areas.

• Brush the pool walls and floor regularly to prevent biofilms and deposits.
• A pool robot reduces the effort by cleaning the walls and floor independently.
• Alternatively, manual cleaning can be carried out with a brush or a pool vacuum cleaner, especially in smaller pools.
• If dirt particles settle again quickly, there may be a problem with the filter system or an excessive organic load.

Additional tip: Thorough pool cleaning is particularly important after storms or heavy use, as additional particles often accumulate.

3. ensure efficient pool hydraulics

The positioning of the inlet and outlet openings has a significant influence on how evenly the water is circulated in the pool. Unfavorable flow conditions promote deposits in certain areas.

• If possible, place the inlet and outlet openings at opposite ends of the pool to achieve even water circulation.
• Avoid dead zones: Align inlet nozzles so that areas behind steps or in corners also have a better flow.
• With poor pool hydraulics, not all of the water is sufficiently exposed to UVC radiation, which impairs disinfection.
• If possible, adjust the flow direction so that impurities are directed towards the filter system.

Additional tip: Repeated algae growth despite UVC disinfection may indicate unfavourable flow conditions, which should be checked and optimized.

4. backwashing and rinsing as required

The filter system plays a central role in water treatment. Without regular backwashing, dirt accumulates in the filter medium, causing the filter performance to drop sharply.

• Adjust the frequency and duration of backwashing according to the actual water contamination and pool usage.
• Carry out a rinse after each backwash to completely remove fine dirt particles from the filter.
• A dirty filter system impairs the water quality and reduces the efficiency of even high-quality UVC disinfection.
• If the filter performance decreases noticeably despite regular backwashing, it may be necessary to replace or refill the filter medium.

Additional tip: Sand filters should be rinsed at least once a season with a special cleaner to remove grease and limescale deposits.

Conclusion

UVC disinfection is an effective, low-chemical method of pool hygiene. Optimized water circulation, thorough cleaning of the pool surfaces, well thought-out pool hydraulics and needs-based filter maintenance are essential for it to be fully effective. If you follow these four golden rules, you can look forward to crystal-clear pool water in the long term and greatly reduce the use of chemicals.