Can Enzyme-Based Hot Tub Treatments Truly Replace Chlorine and Bromine?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the viability of enzyme-based treatments for hot tubs as alternatives to traditional chlorine and bromine sanitizers. Participants explore the effectiveness, safety, and marketing claims of such products, with a focus on their chemical composition and potential drawbacks.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express skepticism about the effectiveness of enzyme-based treatments compared to chlorine, questioning whether they can adequately kill bacteria and algae.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the harshness of the ingredients in enzyme products, particularly lanolin and vitamins, which may not align with claims of being less harsh than chlorine.
  • One participant highlights the contradiction in claiming to eliminate chemicals while using a mixture of various natural compounds, suggesting that this may not be a true alternative to chlorine.
  • There are doubts about the marketing language used to promote the product, with some participants labeling it as potentially misleading or exaggerated.
  • Technical aspects of how enzymes interact with contaminants are mentioned, but some participants find the explanations insufficient or unclear.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the effectiveness and safety of enzyme-based treatments compared to traditional sanitizers. There is no consensus on whether these products can serve as viable alternatives to chlorine and bromine.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the chemical interactions of the ingredients in enzyme treatments and their implications for pool maintenance and user safety. The discussion does not resolve these uncertainties.

DaveC426913
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This is a product that's supposed to do away with itchy, smelly chlorine and bromine.

http://www.spamarvel.com/index.html"
"...a unique formulation of natural enzymes, minerals and plant extracts and
contains no chlorine, bromine or other harsh chemicals ... made with
seaweed, lanolin and other natural compounds as well as Vitamins C and D which contain
skin conditioning properties..."

It sounds too good to be true.

I asked why every pool supply and hot tub outlet isn't selling this product. The response was: "they make their money on chlorine and bromine sales; this would knock out their bread & butter."

So how can I determine if this product is a viable alternative to bromine?
 
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I wouldn't dismiss an enzyme as potentially being as effective as chlorine at killing bacteria and algae, though I would question it being less harsh than chlorine. On the other hand, lanolin is the greasy/waxy substance in sheep's wool that is used as a moisturizer (skin lotion), and serves the sheep well by being a good water repellant so they don't get soggy very fast when it rains on them; how would that mix with water in a pool or hot tub? Likewise, vitamin E is a lipid soluble vitamin, not water soluble. It doesn't seem consistent with the idea of a "scum free" pool.

It also fails its own claim of eliminating multiple chemicals...chlorine is only ONE chemical...chlorine. A mixture of enzymes, lanolin, vitamins, and other "natural" compounds is, by definition, a mixture of a LOT of chemicals.

Personally, I'd be more concerned about bathing in an unnamed enzyme mixture than a pool with a low concentration of chlorine.
 
...made with seaweed, lanolin and other natural compounds as well as Vitamins C and D which contain skin conditioning properties...

Sounds like marketing BS. I'm surpised they don't claim that the seaweed is "organically grown."

Besides, lanolin smells like a wet sheep.
 
These enzymes bond to the contaminant that enters the water
(by using naturally occurring magnetically charged technology).
Doesn't explain anything.
 
Moonbear said:
... Likewise, vitamin E is a lipid soluble vitamin, not water soluble. It doesn't seem consistent with the idea of a "scum free" pool.

Yes, definitely scum free is the way to go when dealing with (or in) hot tubs! As my daughter would say, "Yeah, I went there!":smile: