AOP - Advanced Oxidation Process WHAT IT IS & HOW IT WORKS

As pool owners strive to provide their family and guests with a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, the search for efficient and effective water treatment methods remains a top priority. Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) is emerging as a game-changer in the pool industry, offering a powerful and innovative solution for achieving crystal-clear, healthy, and pristine pool water. With that said, let’s delve into the concept, explore some of its advantages, and explain why pool owners should seriously consider incorporating this revolutionary technology into their pool maintenance routine.

What is AOP?

AOP, or Advanced Oxidation Process, is a cutting-edge water treatment technology that utilizes a combination of powerful oxidants to break down and eliminate organic and inorganic contaminants in pool water. The primary components include ozone (O3), hydroxyl radicals (OH), and ultraviolet (UV-C) light. Together, these potent oxidants work synergistically to destroy bacteria, viruses, algae, oils, and other impurities that may compromise water quality.

“We know that water treated with AOP is better water,” said Steve Berens, CEO of Clear Comfort, a leading manufacturer of AOP systems, “it makes water care simpler and much, much more sustainable. In today’s world, that seems to be a hallmark of good water treatment. Consumers want to know not just how well you can treat the water, but how much use

you get out of that water.”

Clear Comfort is an award-winning firm that is leading the charge in developing revolutionary water treatment solutions. As a leading AOP provider, they have been on the cutting edge of developing advanced oxidation process systems that have gained enormous popularity over the past decade. Berens says he’s incredibly optimistic about the future of AOP technology in the pool & spa sector.

“Bottom line, people don’t want to own a pool or spa and have to spend a whole lot of time taking care of it. Whether you’re a pool or spa owner or a service technician, we all want to have an easier path to manage that water. That’s where AOP really stands out,” said Berens.

Advantages for Pool Owners

Superior Water Quality: AOP offers unparalleled water quality compared to traditional pool treatment methods. By efficiently removing a wide range of contaminants, pool water treated with an advanced oxidation process is clearer, fresher, and more inviting, providing a delightful swimming experience for all.

Enhanced Safety and Health: AOP’s ability to neutralize harmful pathogens and microorganisms significantly reduces the risk of waterborne illnesses and infections. This ensures a safer swimming environment, giving pool owners peace of mind that their loved ones are protected while enjoying their time in the pool.

Reduced Chemical Dependency: AOP reduces the reliance on traditional pool chemicals like chlorine and bromine. While these chemicals are essential for sanitation, AOP’s powerful oxidizing action reduces their consumption, leading to decreased chemical costs and less exposure to byproducts.

Less Chlorine Odor and Irritation: The formation of chloramines – the byproducts of chlorine reacting with organic matter – is a common issue in traditional pool water treatment. AOP effectively breaks down chloramines, reducing the unpleasant chlorine odor and minimizing eye and skin irritation for swimmers.

Lower Maintenance Effort: AOP systems generally require less maintenance compared to traditional methods. The efficient removal of contaminants and reduced reliance on chemicals result in less frequent water testing and chemical adjustments, simplifying the pool maintenance routine.

Eco-Friendly Solution: With reduced chemical usage, AOP contributes to a more eco-friendly pool environment. By minimizing the release of harmful chemicals into the environment, pool owners can do their part in conserving resources and promoting sustainability.

To incorporate AOP into a pool, a well-designed system should be installed, typically working alongside the existing pool filtration system. The AOP system typically consists of an ozone generator, UV-C light chamber, and a control panel to regulate the process. Consulting with a professional pool technician or water treatment specialist is crucial to ensure the system is appropriately sized and tailored to the pool’s specific needs.

AOP utilizes a combination of powerful oxidants to break down and destroy contaminants in the water. The key components of AOP include:

Ozone: Ozone is a potent oxidizer and disinfectant. It is generated by passing oxygen molecules through a corona discharge or UV light, converting them into ozone molecules (O3). Ozone rapidly reacts with and destroys organic matter and pathogens in the water.

Hydroxyl Radicals (OH): Hydroxyl radicals are highly reactive and powerful oxidants.

They are formed when ozone reacts with water in the presence of UV light or other catalysts. Hydroxyl radicals can effectively break down a wide range of pollutants, further purifying the water.

UV-C Light: Ultraviolet (UV) light in the C-band spectrum is used to activate the ozone and produce hydroxyl radicals. The UV-C light also helps to sterilize and disinfect the water by damaging the DNA or RNA of microorganisms, rendering them unable to reproduce.

AOP is suitable for various pool and spa applications, including residential pools, commercial pools, and hightraffic public aquatic facilities. It is particularly beneficial for spas and hot tubs, where high temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions and increase the demand for effective water treatment. While AOP has numerous advantages, it is essential to note that implementing this technology requires careful consideration and proper system sizing based on the pool or spa’s size, bather load, and specific needs