UV disinfection system applied to dechloramination

In swimming pools, chlorine is used to disinfect the water. However, when added to water, it attacks the organic matter it contains, and generates chloramines.

The problem with water with a high chloramine content is the reactions it causes: irritation of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes of swimmers. And the smell of chlorine can also lead to respiratory infections.

Unlike most people think, a strong odor does not mean that the water is disinfected and sanitized. UV-C reactors are used to dechlorinate and disinfect aquatic and public facilities:

  • public pools
  • communal spas
  • chlorine-treated thalassotherapy pools
  • chlorine-treated spa pools

Dechloramination treatment counteracts the microbiological risks (from pathogenic micro-organisms) that can be a source of disease. Treatment with chlorine-based products is the most widely used, but has the disadvantage of not controlling the risk of certain parasites that can lead to water quality problems. Only UV treatment can provide ideal disinfection and optimal dechloramination, so that the water remains safe for swimmers.

If you’d like to equip yourself with an efficient dechloramination system, the full range of UV reactors for Water for Human Consumption / Sterilization can be consulted online, and design can be carried out on this page.

UV disinfection applied to dechloramination

Disinfection system benefits

In addition, producing healthy water, without any risk of contamination by microorganisms, UV water treatment is also part of an environmental approach:

  • For your health, water treatment without the addition of harmful pool products guarantees allergy- and respiratory-risk-free swimming (non-chemical).
  • It also provides additional value for the environment, ensuring crystal-clear, odor-free water.
  • The absence of chlorine makes for a safe, environmentally-friendly process.
  • UV treatment represents cost savings, thanks to extended plant lifetimes and simple, reliable, long-lasting equipment.
  • Last but not least, the system can be installed and maintained quickly and easily.

Design tips: UV disinfection applied to seawater

On the page dedicated to UV reactors for water for human consumption / Sterilization, we offer a wide range of solutions (up to a unit flow rate of 130 m3/h). For higher flow rates, up to 130 m3/h, please contact us!

  • Select ” Drinking water / Sterilization “.
  • Select the water source to be potabilized, e.g. “Dechloramination”.
  • Enter the flow rate to be treated (for example 25 m3/h)
  • Adjust the cost of electricity in your country (for example 0.09€ for France; 0.23€ for Germany)
  • Let 30 mJ / cm² (or adapt)
  • Specify the temperature of the water (normally, between 5 and 40°c is sufficient)
  • Please enter your email address so that we can send you the design right away.

In any case, to ensure optimal disinfection and to determine whether prefilters are necessary, it is recommended that a source water analysis be performed with these parameters:

  • Iron
  • Hardness
  • Turbidity
  • Manganese
  • Suspended solids (TSS)
  • UV Transmittance

FAQ

Why is it necessary to remove chloramines from water before a reverse osmosis unit or a boiler?

Chloramines (monochloramine, dichloramine, trichloramine) are corrosive and often pass through standard filters. They quickly damage reverse osmosis membranes and cause corrosion in thermal circuits (boilers, heat exchangers). A high-intensity UV treatment can break down these compounds without adding chemicals.

Free chlorine (Cl₂, HOCl, OCl⁻) is a strong oxidizing disinfectant used to kill bacteria. Chloramines form when free chlorine reacts with nitrogenous substances (such as urea or ammonia). They are more stable but much less effective for disinfection and can produce unpleasant byproducts (taste, odor, irritation).

Yes. High-intensity UV (dose ≥ 600 mJ/cm²) is specifically sized to break the chemical bonds of chloramines without altering the water’s minerals, pH, or conductivity. Unlike activated carbon or sodium bisulfite, this process generates no chemical byproducts.

Effectiveness is measured by comparing chloramine concentrations at the inlet and outlet (often in mg/L). Indirect indicators are also used, such as reduced ammonia odor or decreased downstream corrosion. Reputable manufacturers often offer pilot studies or performance guarantees.

Since UV doses are higher than for simple disinfection, the lamps should be checked more frequently (often every 6 to 9 months). You should also monitor the water’s UV transmittance (UVT/TUV) and clean the quartz sleeves regularly to prevent loss of effectiveness. An automatic wiping system is recommended.

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