Chlorine is widely used as a swimming pool cleaner because of its disinfecting properties. However, prolonged exposure to chlorine and its byproducts can cause multiple problems for human health, water quality, and maintenance costs.
1. Health Risks of Chlorine-Based Pool Cleaning Services
- Irritation and Allergies: Chlorine can cause skin irritation, rashes, and eye redness, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.
- Respiratory Issues: High levels of chlorine fumes can lead to breathing difficulties, particularly for those with asthma.
- Harmful Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs): When chlorine reacts with organic materials like sweat, sunscreen, and urine, it forms harmful byproducts such as chloramines and trihalomethanes, which are linked to lung irritation and other health risks.
2. Negative Effects on Pool and Fountain Surfaces
- Corrosion of Equipment: Regular use of chlorine accelerates the corrosion of pool ladders, pumps, and filtration systems.
- Discoloration and Scaling: Fountains and pool tiles often develop white scaling and staining, making maintenance more frequent and costly.
3. Unpleasant Smell and Water Quality Issues
- Strong Chemical Odor: Chlorinated pools often have a harsh smell, which can be unpleasant for guests at hotels and restaurants.
- pH Imbalance: Maintaining proper chlorine levels requires constant monitoring of pH levels to prevent cloudy water and skin irritation.
Given these drawbacks, hotels, restaurants, and resorts are now shifting towards sustainable alternatives like Beneficial Microbial Culture (BMC) for pool servicing and fountain cleaning.
What is Beneficial Microbial Culture and How Does It Work?
Beneficial Microbial Culture (BMC) is an advanced biological water treatment solution that uses naturally occurring beneficial bacteria to break down organic waste, maintain water clarity, and prevent algae buildup in pools and fountains.
How BMC Works in Pool and Fountain Cleaning
- Breaks Down Organic Waste – BMC contains friendly microbes that naturally digest contaminants like body oils, organic debris, and food particles without releasing harmful byproducts.
- Controls Algae Growth – Instead of using chlorine to “kill” algae, BMC prevents algae formation by removing excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen that fuel algal growth.
- Maintains Water Balance – Unlike chlorine, which requires constant pH adjustments, BMC naturally stabilizes water chemistry, making maintenance easier.
- Eliminates Foul Odors – The microbes neutralize odors caused by organic waste, keeping pools and fountains fresh without harsh chemicals.
Advantages of Using Beneficial Microbial Culture Over Chlorine-Based Cleaners
1. Safe for Humans and the Environment
Unlike chlorine, which can cause eye irritation, skin rashes, and respiratory issues, BMC is completely safe for swimmers and visitors. It is a natural, non-toxic solution that does not release harmful fumes or byproducts.
2. Prolongs the Life of Pool and Fountain Equipment
- Reduces corrosion of metal fixtures and pumps.
- Prevents scaling on tiles and surfaces, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
- Keeps filtration systems clean, improving efficiency.
3. Reduces Maintenance Costs for Hotels and Restaurants
- Requires less frequent water changes, saving on water bills.
- Reduces the need for chemical balancing and pH monitoring.
- Keeps fountains clear and free from biofilm and sludge, reducing cleaning labor costs.
4. Creates a Better Guest Experience
For hotels, resorts, and high-end restaurants, the quality of pool and fountain water plays a huge role in guest satisfaction. Using BMC ensures:
- Crystal-clear water without harsh chemical smells.
- Eco-friendly branding, appealing to environmentally conscious guests.
- Longer-lasting aesthetic appeal, keeping fountains beautiful and inviting.
How to Use Beneficial Microbial Culture for Pool and Fountain Maintenance
Using BMC is simple and requires no complex equipment:
- Dosage: Add BMC powder or liquid directly into the pool or fountain water.
- Application Frequency: Use bi-weekly or monthly depending on the waterbody size.
- Monitoring: Unlike chlorine, BMC does not require constant pH adjustments.
- Compatibility: Works with existing filtration and aeration systems, making it easy to integrate.
Who Should Use Beneficial Microbial Culture?
BMC is an ideal solution for:
✅ Hotels & Resorts – Keep pools and fountains clean and chemical-free for guests.
✅ Restaurants with Decorative Water Features – Prevent foul odors and algae buildup.
✅ Swimming Pool Cleaning Services – Offer eco-friendly cleaning alternatives.
✅ Residential Pools & Spas – Ensure safe, non-toxic swimming conditions.
Conclusion: Make the Switch to a Healthier, Safer Pool Cleaning Solution
Chlorine-based cleaners, while commonly used, come with serious drawbacks—health risks, corrosion, high maintenance costs, and unpleasant odors. Clean-Water’s Beneficial Microbial Culture provides a natural, effective alternative that keeps swimming pools and fountains clean without harming people or the environment.
By switching to BMC for pool servicing, hotels, restaurants, and commercial properties can maintain clean, fresh, and algae-free waterbodies while reducing costs and enhancing guest satisfaction.
Looking for a safer, eco-friendly alternative to chlorine-based pool cleaners? Try Clean-Water’s Beneficial Microbial Culture today!
