AC Baths see the ‘UV light’

MEDIA RELEASE

31 July 2009 

A new ultra violet (UV) filtration system installed in the Learn to Swim pool at AC Baths uses UV lights to sterilise the water, reducing the harsh chlorine smell. 

The new Hanovia medium pressure UV system was installed last week in the Learn to Swim kids pool and is a first for AC Baths.  It uses intense UV light to kill contaminants in the water, greatly reducing the level of chlorine needed, and therefore reducing the smell and irritation commonly caused by chlorine pools.

The reduction in chloramines (combined chlorine compounds) in the water will greatly reduced the smell commonly associated with indoor pools.  It will also reduce irritation in eyes and on skin for pool users, which can be a problem for some users, particularly those with sensitive skin.  Users will also notice that the water is much clearer. 

AC Baths Manager Virginia Munro says “The pool is now much nicer to swim in, the kids don’t come out with sore eyes and smelling like chlorine, the water is also much clearer.”  

If successful the UV systems will continue to be installed into the other pools, starting with indoor/outdoor leisure pool.  “We see this as a positive improvement, not just environmentally but also as a cost saving exercise,” said Ms Munro. 

Other benefits of the UV system include a reduction in running costs, and reduced maintenance.  Less chlorine is used (although some is still required) and the regular replacement of fresh water, commonly required with a standard chlorine system, is also reduced.

The Hanovia UV systems are compact and are a simple retrofit to most public pools, usually being installed within existing pipework with minimal disruption.  Maintenance is a simple operation which can be done without shutting down the pool.

Cross section of the new Hanovia UV filtration system

Contact:
Virginia Munro
AC Baths Manager
Taupo District Council
Ph. 07 376 0350 ext 7804