Enzymes have become a valuable tool for pool service technicians, offering an effective and environmentally friendly way to handle organic contaminants in swimming pools. By breaking down oils, lotions, pollen, and other organic waste, enzymes can reduce the workload on sanitizers, prevent unsightly scum lines, improve water clarity, and reduce maintenance needs. Let’s look at why they’re increasingly popular in the pool industry.
Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the breakdown of organic matter, specifically targeting oils, body fats, sunscreen residues, and other organic contaminants that accumulate in pool water. When these substances are left untreated, they tend to form scum lines along the waterline, cause cloudy water, and add to the organic load that sanitizers must handle.
In pools, enzymes work by breaking down these contaminants into smaller molecules, which can then be easily filtered out or further oxidized by chlorine. Unlike sanitizers, which kill bacteria and algae, enzymes act on the non-living organic material that can feed bacteria and algae, keeping the water cleaner with less chemical use.
Benefits of Using Enzymes
By breaking down organic contaminants that would otherwise increase chlorine demand, enzymes help reduce the amount of sanitizer required. This can result in lower chlorine consumption, as the enzymes reduce the organic load that chlorine or other sanitizers would otherwise need to oxidize.
Enzymes break down organic contaminants that contribute to cloudiness in pool water, improving water clarity and making the pool look clearer and more inviting. For service techs, this means fewer customer complaints about murky water and a more satisfied clientele.
When organic contaminants are broken down by enzymes, they are less likely to clog filters. This can extend the time between backwashing or filter cleaning, reducing maintenance efforts for pool service technicians and lowering operational costs for pool owners.
Enzymes also help reduce chloramines, which are byproducts of chlorine reacting with organic material. Chloramines are responsible for the 'chlorine smell' and can cause eye and skin irritation. By reducing chloramines, enzymes help create a more comfortable swimming experience, particularly in commercial pools, where heavy bather loads lead to higher levels of organic contamination.
Limitations & Considerations
While enzymes offer significant benefits, they have some limitations and should be used appropriately: They are not a replacement for sanitizers. Enzymes do not sanitize pool water. They are designed to manage organic contaminants, so chlorine, bromine, or another sanitizer is still needed to keep the pool free from harmful bacteria and pathogens.
Enzymes can be expensive, so some pool owners may be hesitant to invest. However, the cost is often offset by the savings on other chemicals and reduced maintenance requirements.
Enzymes need to be stored with care. They should be stored according to manufacturer instructions, typically in a cool, dry place, to ensure their potency.
