UV and Ozone Systems

What is a UV System and What Does it Do?

A UV system is a sanitation system that uses an ultraviolet light (UV) to eliminate chlorine-resistant micro-organisms with a kill rate of 99.9%. In essence, the UV system uses a powerful lamp to produce UV radiation inside a light chamber.

What is an Ozone System and What Does it Do?

Similar to the UV System, an Ozone system is also a sanitation system. It kills or removes viruses, bacteria, spores, mildew, and fungi. It actually oxidizes the water, which is a safe alternative to chlorine. Ozone systems draw oxygen into the ozone chamber that comes across a high output UV germicidal bulb which results in what is called ozone generation. Simply put, ozone quickly kills the germs it comes in contact with at the molecular level by ways of oxidation. After oxidation is complete, or if the ozone finds nothing to oxidize, it returns to molecular oxygen and dissipates. Using a tube injection method, the ozone flows back into the pool’s equipment, mixing the water with ozone and sanitizing.

Combining UV and Ozone

When combined, you get a sanitation system that works together in attacking and eliminating bacteria, viruses, and even those nasty water-born illnesses. When it comes to traditional chlorine pools vs. UV/Ozone pools, the only major difference is that you typically use about 80% less chlorine in a UV/Ozone pool.

If you are considering a UV/Ozone system it is best to consult your local Colley’s location with any questions or inquiries!

Seasonal Pool Maintenance and Security Tips

The leaves are turning, and the air is cool and crisp. It's a sure sign that fall is here and winter a close step behind. In Western New York, this marks the end of the 2022 swim season. Here are a few basic tips to prepare your pool for its closing:

1. Remove Debris: Most homeowners take extra care to remove leaves and other surface debris (toys, floats, etc) from the pool. If there are leaves at the bottom of the pool, we suggest removing them as soon as possible because they could stain or cause algae growth.

2. General Cleaning: Once debris and pool toys have been removed, you should scrub the walls and tiles (if you have tiling) and use the pool vacuum to ensure the bottom of the pool has been thoroughly cleaned.

3. Filter Check: Clean filters after a busy summer pool season to keep them working into the fall, even if they plan to close the pool. No one wants to open the pool in the spring with dirt and grime from the last season, especially if you’re the one opening the pool.

4. Chemical Check: As you would during peak swim season, please ensure your water is properly balanced, especially going into your pool closing. If you need help balancing the pool, bring a water sample in to your local Colley’s retail store, or give them a call!

5. Perimeter Security: For pool owners, protecting the backyard and the pool area is year-round. It is not unheard of, especially locally, to have animals such as deer fall into pool and cause damage to the cover and/or pool during the fall/winter. A fence or secure perimeter may help to mitigate any unwanted guests from entering the pool area.

Hot Tub Maintenance Tips

The fall can be the most relaxing time of year to use your Marquis hot tub, so it’s important to keep your hot tub in working order! Here are a few tips for maintaining your hot tub!

Clean the Filter(s): This is one of the most important aspects of maintaining your spa. A regular cleaning routine will help your spa’s filtration system run as efficiently as possible. It can also help to extend the lifespan of your filter(s), which may help to save money in the long run. How often you clean the filters depends on how much you use your hot tub.

Keep a spare set of hot tub filters in a clean, dry place. When you remove the dirty filters from your hot tub for cleaning and air drying, swap in your spare set from storage. Once your dirty filters are cleaned and air dried, they become your spare set for storage. Repeat this process as necessary.

Rinse Off First: Prior to entering your spa, if possible, rinse off completely in the shower. Showering removes skin residue like deodorant, lotion and makeup which can impact the cleanliness of your hot tub. Additionally, rinsing your bathing suit reduces residue from detergent and fabric softeners.

Top it Off: Regular spa usage and evaporation will gradually reduce your spa’s water level. Without people in the spa, the water should reach about two thirds of the way up the skimmer opening. If you notice the pumps “surging”- meaning repeatedly starting and stopping- it can mean your water level is too low.