Why Use Enzymes for Pool care?

When it comes to pool maintenance, many of us hear terms like “enzymes” and “phosphates” tossed around but don’t fully understand their significance. Eric Knight from Orenda joined Poolman University to break down the role of enzymes in pool care. This friendly yet professional discussion covered what enzymes are, how they work, and why every pool owner should consider adding them to their maintenance arsenal. Grab your coffee, and let’s dive in.

What Are Enzymes, and Why Do Pools Need Them?

Think of enzymes as hardworking little helpers specifically designed to target and break down non-living organic contaminants in your pool. These aren’t living organisms themselves but are a type of protein that catalyzes specific chemical reactions.

Eric explained that while chlorine is an exceptional sanitizer and disinfectant, it’s not primarily designed to oxidize non-living organics like sunscreen, body oils, or lotions. This is where enzymes come in. They take on the heavy lifting by breaking down these complex molecules, reducing the burden on chlorine.

Why It Matters:
Most contaminants in your pool are non-living organics—things like makeup, deodorant, and, most notably, sunscreen. When chlorine spends energy oxidizing these substances, it’s less available for its primary role of killing germs and bacteria. This leads to higher chlorine demand and, often, cloudy or greasy water. By using enzymes, you can dramatically reduce chlorine demand, leading to clearer water and a more balanced pool.

How Enzymes Work to Keep Your Pool Sparkling

Eric shared an eye-opening story about his experience as a competitive swimmer. He once swam in a pool with such pristine water clarity that it looked like drinking water. The secret? Enzymes.

Enzymes break down non-living carbon chain organics into smaller, more manageable pieces that are easier for your pool system to process. This process is not only highly effective but also efficient. Unlike chlorine, enzymes don’t get “used up” immediately. They keep working until the job is done, only requiring weekly maintenance doses to sustain their activity.

Benefits of Enzymes:

1. Reduced Chlorine Demand: Enzymes handle most of the oxidation, leaving chlorine free to focus on sanitization.
2. Improved Water Clarity: They eliminate oils, scum, and other organics that can make water look dull or cloudy.
3. Ease of Maintenance: A properly dosed enzyme system simplifies pool care by reducing the need for frequent shocking and filter cleaning.

The Orenda Enzyme Solution: CV-700 and CV-600

Orenda’s enzyme products, like CV-700 and CV-600, stand out in the market because they were originally designed for industrial wastewater treatment. These highly concentrated enzymes are tailored for pool care to deliver exceptional results with minimal effort.

CV-700: Enzymes + Phosphate Removal

The CV-700 combines powerful enzymes with a phosphate remover, making it a dual-action product. Phosphates feed algae, so removing them helps prevent algae growth.

• Annual Purge: Add one quart per 10,000 gallons at the start or end of the pool season. This clears out built-up organic waste and prepares the pool for the months ahead.
• Weekly Maintenance: Add 2–5 ounces per 10,000 gallons, depending on bather load. For heavy use (e.g., pool parties), increase the dosage to 5 ounces before and after the event.

CV-600: Pure Enzymes

CV-600 is similar to CV-700 but doesn’t include phosphate removal. It’s ideal for pools that already have phosphate management in place or don’t require it.

How to Use Enzymes in Your Pool

Adding enzymes to your pool care routine is straightforward, but there are a few key tips to maximize their effectiveness:

1. Start with a Purge: At the beginning or end of the pool season, use CV-600 or CV-700 for a deep clean. This helps remove any accumulated waste, ensuring a clean slate.
2. Switch to Weekly Maintenance: Once the purge is complete, use Orenda’s CE Clarifier for ongoing care. This product combines enzymes with a clarifier to remove dust, pollen, and other fine particles. Just spray it across the pool’s surface weekly.
3. Adjust for High Usage: If you know your pool will have a heavy bather load, like during a party, pre-treat the pool with an extra dose of CV-600 or CV-700. Follow up with another dose afterward to handle the additional contaminants.

The Bigger Picture: Enzymes as Part of a Balanced System

Enzymes are not a replacement for chlorine or other sanitizers but a powerful complement. By reducing the workload on chlorine, they allow your pool’s sanitization system to operate more efficiently, resulting in cleaner water with fewer chemicals.

As Eric Knight emphasized, enzymes are particularly beneficial for pools with high bather loads or those frequently exposed to contaminants like sunscreen. With products like Orenda’s CV-700, you can ensure your pool remains clear, clean, and enjoyable all season long.