FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The comprehensive kit encompasses all necessary components, including the solar pool ionizer, a larger 450g (10,5 x 2,5cm) high-purity copper anode, stainless steel 316-BA cathode spring, bumper belt, basket, screw, test strips, and wire brush.
Powered by the sun, this innovative device utilizes energy from the sun to keep your pool water crystal clear. The solar panels of the Pool Buoy solar pool ionizer generate a harmless and safe low-voltage current when exposed to sunlight, converting it into a gentle, ongoing release of copper ions.
At its core, the Pool Buoy solar pool ionizer contains an anode that releases these copper ions into the water. These ions act as a natural purifier and sanitizer, effectively preventing the growth and reproduction of algae and bacteria on contact, reducing the need for harmful chemicals.
The antimicrobial properties of copper ions disrupt the cell walls and metabolic processes of microorganisms, meaning they inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms, including algae and bacteria. This makes copper ions effective in purifying and sanitizing water.
Yes — but far less of it. Chlorine is still the most effective way to deal with the broad range of contaminants a pool sees, so Pool Buoy is designed to work alongside it, not replace it. The copper minerals do the heavy lifting on algae and bacteria, and you top up with a fraction of the chlorine you used before. The result is a balanced, cost-effective pool routine: sparkling water, less chemical smell, and a saving of approximately R4,000 a year for a typical pool.
How we calculate it
The calculation is based on a 50,000L pool dosed at approximately 1 cup of chlorine per day, which is typical in summer.
- 1 cup: 250 grams
- 15kg chlorine: 60 cups
- 15kg costs approximately R800 (at time of writing)
- Approximately R13.33 per cup per day
- Annual cost: approximately R4,865
- Pool Buoy reduces chlorine use by up to 85%: a saving of up to approximately R4,135* a year
The Pool Buoy solar pool ionizer also enables shorter pool pump operating times and reduces maintenance effort. This results in a clearer, eco-friendly pool with less expense, offering cost savings, improved water quality, and a safer, more comfortable swimming experience.
*Your actual saving will vary with pool size, sun, rainfall and how much chlorine you currently use. Smaller or shaded pools will save less; larger pools in full sun often save more.
The Pool Buoy solar pool ionizer effectively manages pool volumes of up to 150,000L. If your pool water volume exceeds 150,000L, consider using two or more units.
The Pool Buoy is suitable for use in both saltwater and chlorine pools.
The copper anode is purposely designed to slowly corrode during the product’s operation, allowing copper ions to enter your pool water, which is essential for its effectiveness and in the process will form build-up which will require occasional cleaning.
For optimal performance, it is recommended to use the wire brush to scrub the wet anode approximately once a week, or biweekly, depending on the weather conditions and build-up. Build-up may accumulate in the basket. Flush out any build-up from the basket by rinsing it thoroughly.
The lifespan of the top grade 450g (10.5 x 2.5cm) high-purity copper anode depends on factors such as your pool’s size, water chemistry, maintenance, and weather conditions.
In smaller pools, the anode may last significantly longer, potentially up to 2–4 years, as less copper is required to maintain effective ionization.
For larger pools, including those up to 150,000L, the anode will naturally be consumed more quickly due to the higher demand for copper ions. Based on our testing, the anode typically lasts 1 year or longer with regular use and proper care in average-sized 50,000L pools under standard conditions.
To ensure the longest possible lifespan, maintain balanced water chemistry, clean the anode regularly, and follow our care guidelines for optimal performance.
The larger 450g anode ensures an extended usage lifespan. Pool Buoy replacement anodes are available to purchase.
During the ionization process, the release of copper ions leads to natural wear on the copper anode, a result of chemical reactions in the water. This wear includes erosion and corrosion. It’s crucial to note that this ionization process leads to a reduction in the anode’s size as part of its anticipated lifespan. Regularly monitoring the anode’s condition is advised and replacement is necessary to sustain effective ionization and ensure the optimal performance of your Pool Buoy.
The LED is an additional feature that serves as a visual indicator of the unit's exposure to sunlight but does not play any role in the ionization process itself.
Sunlight and workload can influence the LED's brightness in the water. It's common for the ionizer to consume a significant amount of power when engaged with the ionization process, which may result in the LED not lighting up. This is normal behaviour.
However, on a sunny day, the increased availability of solar energy may keep the LED continuously lit.