The build up of organic contamination in swimming pools and spas has significant effects on water quality, air quality and chemical usage, all of which makes maintaining a healthy and safe water environment very difficult. As organic contaminants are introduced into the pool water by swimmers and other sources, organic contamination accumulates in the filter media thereby continually increasing the overall organic load of the pool. This accumulation of surface-bound organic contamination results in increased backwashing frequency, reduced water quality, increased chemical and water usage, and increased production of disinfection byproducts (DBP). Swimmers are exposed to these toxic DBP by being in contact with the water and by inhalation from the surrounding air and it is now well established that many DBP have adverse health effects on swimmers. The agitated water found in spas and pools with water features can actually increase the accumulation of DBP in the air.
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