Question from Denise Brill
What is the best (safest) method for preventing algae growth in children’s wading pools at home? I’d prefer not to have to drain the pool after each use since it’s an 8 foot diameter pool that holds over 400 gallons of water and is a pain to drain and refill.
Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
Readers? Any ideas?
We use a copper/silver ionization system for our swimming pool. After a LOT of research we decided this was a healthy and cost effective way to go. We do monitor the amount of copper in the system to make sure we are using the minimum amount necessary. After three years of using the pool daily I had blood work done to test copper levels and was in the middle of the healthy range. I think the only real danger is if your system puts way too much copper in the pool and the kids spend too much time in it.
All that being said, it’s important to make sure the pH is neutral. If it is too alkaline algae will grow quickly.
With kids being in the pool I’d also consider shocking it once a week with hydrogen peroxide. Be careful and get the amounts right and keep people out for a few hours. A gallon of 35% hydrogen peroxide should last the summer for a small pool and only costs about $8 at a chemical supply store.
We are about to buy a product for any type of pool that works with copper ions(solar power , chemical free ) . The reviews at Amazon were very good but I do not know how safe it is. Thank you all
COMMENT FROM DEBRA:
I’ve heard that these copper systems can release copper, which your body will then absorb, which can lead to a copper imbalance or copper toxicity in your body.