ClearBlue Ionizer

Do I still need chlorine with a pool ionizer?

Yes. Every swimming pool needs chlorine or bromine to help sanitize the water – even saltwater pools. ClearBlue allows you to reduce the chlorine to drinking water levels. This gives you the protection of a proven sanitizer without the downsides like smelly water and fading swimsuits.

Can I use a pool ionizer with my saltwater pool?

Yes. You can upgrade your saltwater pool to a mineral pool by adding a ClearBlue pool ionizer. You can turn down the salt chlorinator to reduce chlorine output. This helps keep the pH in range and gives you more life from the salt cell.

How does a pool ionizer compare with Ozone/AOP systems?

The pool ionizer builds up a residual of minerals in the water which prevent algae and bacteria growth whereas ozone uses a gas to destroy microorganisms as the water passes through a chamber. Since the biggest battle in your backyard swimming pool is against algae and since there is nothing more effective at controlling algae than a mineral residual, a pool ionizer is more efficient for most pool applications. However, many hot tub manufacturers recommend both an ionizer and ozone for hot tubs.

How does a pool ionizer compare with UV systems?

UV systems use UV light to slow the growth of microorganisms in the water. Water is treated as it passes through the UV chamber, so it takes a long time for the entire pool to be treated. Since there is no residual like the ClearBlue minerals, it is not very effective at controlling algae.

How does a pool ionizer compare with mineral cartridges?

Mineral cartridges that you plumb inline or drop in the skimmer also use minerals to control algae. However, there is no way to control the mineral level so it’s hard to keep it in the right range. Mineral cartridges have a set life regardless of the pool or hot tub size, whereas, with a pool ionizer, you get 100% of the life from the cell with every application. You can also see the cell through the tee and gauge precisely how much life is left – like the battery on your cell phone.

How does ClearBlue compare with solar pool ionizers

ClearBlue is hooked into your plumbing and is powered by your main power. This means it’s always working at the optimal level, whereas solar pool ionizers depend on getting enough sun. The ClearBlue cell is self-cleaning, whereas you have to clean the solar ionizer cell weekly.

Why is ClearBlue more expensive than other pool ionizers?

ClearBlue is the only pool ionizer on the market that is registered with the EPA and Health Canada as a sanitizing device. The ClearBlue controller uses proprietary technology to guarantee a constant output to the cell, regardless of cell life or water chemistry. Cheaper pool ionizers do not have this feature, so you must constantly adjust the water chemistry and turn the levels up or down as the cell wears down to keep the levels consistent. We also use the purest silver, copper, and zinc in a proprietary blend designed to maximize results, whereas cheaper systems use copper only with varying purity.

Will ClearBlue cause staining?

No. Some pool ionizers are not regulated well so mineral levels go way higher than necessary. Combine this with poor water chemistry, and you can get colorations in the water that lead to stains. With the precision of the ClearBlue controller and our proprietary mineral blend, staining has never been a problem in 20 years of business.

How long does the mineral cell last?

The cell that comes with the system lasts 6 months on average in a pool and 2-3 years in a hot tub. In pools, the first cell goes quickest because it needs to ramp up the minerals. Ask your retailer for your replacement cell options.

How long is the warranty?

ClearBlue manufactures several brands of pool ionizers, and the warranty ranges from 1 year to 6 years. With every model, your warranty doubles if you register it.

Can I use a pool ionizer with my fiberglass / plaster / gunite pool?

Yes, ClearBlue is designed to work with all pool types including fiberglass, plaster and gunite. It is designed to release a tiny amount of minerals to reduce the risk of staining on porous surfaces. Read more.