Q&A

Intec Pool Ionization Systems – Q&A

 

What are ions and how does Intec ionization work?
Ions are charged atoms. Intec ionization uses a safe low-voltage DC current across high-purity copper electrodes. Copper ions (Cu++) are released into the water as it flows through the electrode chamber and remain suspended to sanitize the pool.

How does copper ionization actually kill algae and bacteria?
Copper ions pierce the protective outer membrane of algae and bacteria cells, disrupting their enzyme balance and killing them. This process is lethal to microbes but completely safe for humans at the levels used.

Do I still need any chemicals if I install an Intec ionizer?
No chlorine or algaecides are required, but you must maintain pH between 7.0–7.4 (using muriatic acid or soda ash) and add a small weekly oxidizer (1 qt bleach or hydrogen peroxide per 8,000 gal) or a clarifier (Super Blue) to keep water sparkling and break down body oils/suntan lotion. The ionizer is NOT a filter and does not clarify water on its own.

Why does Intec use only copper instead of silver, zinc, or alloys?
Years of research show high-purity copper is the safest, healthiest, and most effective option for swimming pools. Silver and zinc can stain at very low levels; other alloys still require copper to open cell membranes. Intec’s copper system keeps disinfection levels well below EPA staining limits.

Is copper ionization safe for swimmers and the environment?
Yes — it is actually healthy. The copper concentration used (≈0.5 ppm) is about ⅓ of the EPA limit for drinking water. Copper is an essential mineral that supports immune function, metabolism, and more. There are no toxic by-products or strong chemical odors.

How much does it cost to run an Intec system?
Electrodes last an average of 2 years and are inexpensive to replace. Electricity use averages only a few dollars per year. Overall operating cost is dramatically lower than chlorine (80–85 % savings on chemicals, shock, stabilizer, and algaecides).

What is the ideal copper level and how often do I test?
Target: 0.5 ppm copper (acceptable range 0.4–0.6 ppm). Test copper at least once a week and pH every few days. The system is pH-neutral, but alkalinity can slowly raise pH, so check total alkalinity and calcium hardness twice a year.

Will the ionizer damage my plaster, vinyl liner, or equipment?
No. Because you eliminate harsh chemicals, most pool surfaces actually last 3–5 times longer. Proper pH balance prevents staining or scaling.Can staining or scaling still occur?
Only if pH goes out of balance. Intec uses ultra-pure copper at low levels, so staining is virtually impossible when pH is kept 7.0–7.4. Use Intec-approved Stain Tamer if needed (never “Metal Out”).

Does the system use salt or work with saltwater pools?
No salt is added or required. You can convert a saltwater pool to ionization without draining (gradually reduce TDS over time to stop corrosion). Salt systems often void heater and deck warranties — ionization does not.

How do I install the electrode and controller?
Install the electrode AFTER the filter and BEFORE the heater (horizontal or vertical). Cut pipe, use reducer bushings for 1.5" or 2" plumbing, cement unions, slide electrode in (arrow points with flow), hand-tighten. Mount controller upright on a wall under an eave. CA10/CV50 run only when pump is on; CV60 has a built-in flow switch and stays powered.

What copper output settings should I use?
Start at a medium setting and adjust so you reach 0.5 ppm in a few days, then run only as needed (often 1–2 times per week once stabilized). On CV60 keep cell current below 1.7 A to prevent overheating. Low TDS (<250 ppm) slows production — add 40 lb pool salt to a 20,000 gal pool if needed.

How do I maintain or replace the electrodes?
Electrodes are self-cleaning (polarity reverses every 10 min). When bars are worn, loosen unions, remove screws, insert new copper bars, re-tighten, reinstall O-rings, and check for leaks. Discoloration on bars is normal and does not affect performance.

What if I get cloudy water or algae?
Cloudiness = add weekly clarifier or oxidizer and run filter. Algae = raise copper to 0.6 ppm, oxidize daily with bleach/H₂O₂ until clear, then vacuum dead algae. The copper kills algae; the oxidizer removes the debris.

What do the CV60 error codes mean?
E1 = no flow (check pump)
E2 = low TDS or cell issue (add salt or check electrode)
E3 = high TDS/setpoint (lower output setting)
Flashing lights = reduce setpoint.

How long is the warranty?
10-year pro-rated warranty on CV50 and CV60 (100 % year 1 down to 5 % year 10). Register the unit to activate.

Can I switch from chlorine or saltwater to Intec ionization?
Yes — no pool drain required. Simply stop adding chlorine/stabilizer, install the ionizer, and let copper levels rise while maintaining pH. For former saltwater pools, slowly replace water to lower TDS.

Why Choose Intec America Over Other Pool Ionization Systems

When customers look at pool ionization systems, they often see dozens of options—solar units, low-power electric systems, mineral cartridges, and so-called “chemical-free” technologies. While many of these approaches claim similar benefits, Intec America stands apart because it delivers commercial-grade water treatment technology with proven reliability, flexibility, and performance.

 

Here are the key reasons customers choose Intec America.

1. True Professional-Grade Ionization Technology

Most ionization products on the market are basic or consumer-grade devices. Solar ionizers float in the pool and rely on sunlight, while many low-power units produce only minimal ion levels.

Intec America systems use controlled electronic ionization integrated directly into the filtration system, ensuring consistent release of copper ions that naturally destroy algae and microorganisms.

Because copper ions remain active in the water, they provide long-lasting sanitation and algae control throughout the entire pool, not just near the device.

What this means for the customer:

• Consistent water quality
• Reliable sanitation
• No dependence on sunlight or floating gadgets

2. Reduced or Eliminated Chlorine

Traditional pools rely heavily on chlorine, which often causes:

• Skin irritation
• Red eyes
• Strong chemical odor

Ionization systems significantly reduce the need for chlorine because copper ions naturally inhibit algae and microbial growth.

Intec’s premier systems can eliminate it entirely, creating a healthier swimming experience without harsh chemicals.

Customer benefit:

• Softer water
• No chemical smell
• Better for sensitive skin and families

3. Lower Long-Term Cost of Ownership

Pool chemicals are one of the largest recurring expenses for pool owners.

Because ionization systems maintain sanitation continuously, pool owners buy far fewer chemicals and spend less time adjusting water balance.

Compared to other alternatives like saltwater chlorinators, ionization systems can also be less expensive to operate and maintain long-term.

Customer benefit:

• Lower chemical costs
• Less maintenance
• Fewer trips to the pool store

4. Reliable Technology vs. Solar Ionizers and Low Powered Electric Ionizers

Solar ionizers are popular but have major limitations:

• Depend on sunlight
• Often float randomly in the pool
• Can become ineffective in cloudy weather or large pools
• Insufficient power still require the use of chlorine

Inexpensive low voltage units provide a false sense of security:

·        Unable to provide sufficient ion levels in a short period of time

·        Still require chlorine as its primary sanitizer, but at reduced levels.

·        High potential for staining since pool shock is periodically required.

·        Electrodes have a short life and are much more expensive for the life of the system

Intec systems are hard-wired into the pool’s circulation system, ensuring the ions are distributed evenly throughout the pool water.

Customer benefit:

• Professional installation
• Consistent performance
• No floating devices

5. Proven Technology with Decades of Development

Copper ionization technology has been used in advanced water treatment applications for decades, including systems originally developed for specialized water purification.

Intec America has refined this technology specifically for swimming pools, delivering systems designed for:

• Residential pools
• Commercial pools
• Large water features

Customer benefit:

• Proven water treatment technology
• Long service life
• Trusted engineering

The Bottom Line

Customers choose Intec America because it offers a complete, professional water treatment solution—not just a gadget.

Compared with competitors, Intec provides:

✔ Professional-grade ionization technology
✔ Reduced or chlorine-free swimming
✔ Lower long-term maintenance costs
✔ Reliable performance independent of sunlight
✔ Proven water purification technology

Simply put:
Intec America transforms a chemically-treated pool into a healthier, easier-to-maintain freshwater swimming experience.