Chlorine has been the workhorse of pool sanitation for decades, but most modern Florida pools use a combination of technologies that keep water cleaner, gentler on skin and eyes, and easier to maintain. Here is a clear, no-jargon overview of the four sanitation systems Pools-Now installs and supports most often: salt chlorine generators, UV, ozone, and AOP.
Salt Chlorine Generators
A salt chlorine generator (also called a salt cell) converts dissolved pool salt into chlorine on demand. The water never tastes “salty” — the salt level is roughly one-tenth of seawater — and you avoid handling jugs of liquid chlorine or buckets of tabs.
- Best for: homeowners who want low daily maintenance and softer-feeling water.
- Things to know: the cell typically lasts 5–7 years and needs occasional cleaning; salt is gentle on plaster and gelcoat but harder on natural stone coping, which should be sealed.
UV (Ultraviolet) Sanitation
UV systems use a lamp inside the plumbing line to deactivate bacteria, viruses, and chlorine-resistant pathogens like cryptosporidium as water passes through. UV is a “secondary” sanitizer — it works alongside chlorine, not instead of it.
- Best for: families with kids or anyone who wants to run lower chlorine levels.
- Things to know: bulbs are replaced annually; you still need a residual chlorine level in the water.
Ozone
Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidizer generated on-site and injected into the return line. It breaks down contaminants, oils, sunscreen, and organic waste very effectively, and can dramatically reduce the chlorine demand of a pool.
- Best for: heavily-used pools or homeowners sensitive to chlorine byproducts (chloramines).
- Things to know: ozone dissipates quickly, so a small chlorine residual is still required.
AOP (Advanced Oxidation Process)
AOP combines UV and ozone to produce hydroxyl radicals — the most powerful oxidizers available for residential pool use. This is the premium option and produces noticeably cleaner, clearer, almost “spring water” feel.
- Best for: luxury builds, spa-pool combos, and homeowners who want the highest possible water quality.
- Things to know: higher up-front cost; pairs beautifully with a salt cell for a near-hands-off system.
How to Choose
- Simple, low-maintenance: salt chlorine generator.
- Family pool with sensitive swimmers: salt + UV.
- Heavy use or chloramine concerns: salt + ozone.
- Best water quality possible: salt + AOP.
The right system depends on your pool size, bather load, and how hands-on you want to be. We can size and install any combination, or upgrade an existing pad without replacing equipment that is still working.
Request a water-quality consultation or call 321-345-9115 to get a recommendation tailored to your pool.