FAQ's

How does it work?

The Claritech system uses copper-silver ionisation technology developed by NECON GmbH in Germany. An electrical current passes through copper and silver electrodes inside the treatment cell, releasing positively charged copper (Cu²⁺) and silver (Ag⁺) ions into the water. These ions attach to and penetrate the cell walls of bacteria, algae, and pathogenic microorganisms — preventing photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, causing them to rapidly die. The ions remain active in the water, providing lasting protection against recontamination.

Which system do I need — NEC-20 or NEC-2000?

The right system depends on your pool or spa volume:

  • NEC-20 — optimally rated for above-ground pools and spas up to 20,000 litres. Suitable for larger pools — electrode lifespan reduces proportionally with pool volume.
  • NEC-2000 — optimally rated for in-ground pools up to 60,000 litres. Suitable for larger pools — electrode lifespan reduces proportionally with pool volume.

Not sure of your pool volume? Use this estimate: Length (m) x Width (m) x Average Depth (m) x 1,000 = litres. If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll help you size correctly.

What are the benefits over chlorine or salt systems?

  • Reduces chemical usage by up to 90% — virtually chemical-free
  • Gentler on skin, eyes, and hair — no red eyes or chemical smell
  • Not temperature-dependent or pH-dependent (works across pH 6.5–9.5)
  • Non-corrosive to pipes, fittings, and pool surfaces
  • No lime scale development
  • Backwash water is safe for garden irrigation
  • Significantly lower energy consumption than salt chlorinators
  • Longer-lasting water quality with fewer adjustments needed

Do I still need any chemicals?

The Claritech system reduces your chemical usage by up to 90% — but a minimal amount of an oxidiser is still needed to break down dissolved organic waste like sunscreen, sweat, and body oils. The ioniser kills living organisms; the oxidiser cleans up what’s left behind. Think of it as a tag-team.

  • Cartridge or Sand Filter Pool: A minimal weekly dose of non-chlorine shock (MPS) or a small amount of liquid chlorine keeps the water sparkling.
  • Spa Pool: A small dose of oxidiser weekly or after heavy use — heated water accelerates organic buildup.
  • Saltwater Chlorinator Pool: No additional oxidiser needed — turn your chlorinator down to 10–15% output and it handles oxidation. The ioniser takes over 90% of the sanitising load.

→ Full chemical setup guide by filter type

How do I test my pool water with a Claritech system?

While you can visually tell it’s time to add an oxidiser when the water loses its sparkle, we recommend a simple weekly testing routine to keep your water in perfect condition year-round. Since you’re not running a traditional chlorine pool, your testing protocol looks slightly different — and it’s actually simpler.

Step 1: Check Your Copper Levels

Use a standard copper test kit (liquid drops or test strips) to confirm your Claritech system is actively pushing minerals into the water. Aim for an ideal target of 0.3–0.5 ppm — this sits within the safe operating range of 0.3–1.0 mg/L and confirms your water is protected against bacteria and algae.

Step 2: Maintain Your pH Balance

This is the most important step. With a copper-silver system, keeping pH in the right range ensures the ions stay active in suspension and prevents any risk of copper staining on pool surfaces. Keep your pH strictly between 7.2 and 7.4 for optimal performance. Total Alkalinity (TA) should be kept between 80–120 ppm to prevent pH from bouncing around. Note: while the system functions across a wide pH range of 6.5–9.5, the 7.2–7.4 range is the sweet spot for ion stability and stain prevention.

Step 3: Check Your Oxidiser Residual

Rather than guessing when to add oxidiser, you can test whether there’s still an active residual working in the water:

  • If using Non-Chlorine Shock (MPS): Use MPS test strips to check for an active residual.
  • If using a small amount of liquid chlorine: Use a standard chlorine test, but aim for a much lower target of around 0.5 ppm — far below the 2.0–4.0 ppm of a traditional chlorine pool.

By following this simple weekly routine, your water stays crystal clear, your copper ions stay active, and your pool remains virtually chemical-free.

Is it safe for my family and pets?

Yes. The system releases copper and silver ions at levels well below health risk thresholds — safe for skin contact and accidental ingestion of pool water. The target copper ion level is 0.3–1.0 mg/L, consistent with NZ drinking water standards for copper. Both minerals are naturally occurring and have been safely used in water treatment for decades.

Are there any health risks?

When maintained at the correct ion levels (0.3–1.0 mg/L copper), there are no health risks. Overexposure is extremely rare and typically only occurs if a system is misused or not maintained. The NEC-2000 includes indicator lights for Power, Water flow, and Error status to help you monitor the system at a glance.

How much power does it use?

Very little. The NEC-20 operates at just 5 watts — less than an LED light bulb. The NEC-2000 operates at a maximum of 36 watts. Both units only draw power while your pool pump is running. Over a full season, running costs are negligible compared to salt chlorinators (typically 100–300W) or chemical dosing systems.

Does it work with my existing pH levels?

Yes — the system operates effectively across a wide pH range of 6.5–9.5. For optimal copper ion stability and to prevent any risk of surface staining, we recommend keeping pH between 7.2 and 7.4.

How is it installed?

Both units install inline between your pump outlet and filter inlet using the hardware supplied in the box.

  • NEC-20 (above-ground pools): Fully DIY-friendly. All connectors and adapters are included — no additional plumbing required. Connects via 32/38mm hose adapters and a 1.5-inch threaded adapter.
  • NEC-20 (spas): Professional installation by a spa or pool technician is recommended due to the varied plumbing configurations of spa systems.
  • NEC-2000 (in-ground pools): Professional installation by a qualified pool installer is strongly recommended. Additional pipework may be required depending on your existing setup, and professional installation is required to maintain your warranty.

Most above-ground pool installations are completed in under an hour. A dedicated timer is strongly recommended to schedule the unit’s runtime independently of the pump.

Can I install it myself?

It depends on your setup:

  • NEC-20 on an above-ground pool: Yes — fully DIY-friendly. All hardware is included and no additional plumbing is required. Full step-by-step instructions are in the manual.
  • NEC-20 on a spa: A spa or pool technician is recommended due to the varied plumbing of spa systems.
  • NEC-2000 on an in-ground pool: Professional installation by a qualified pool installer is strongly recommended. Additional pipework may be needed, and professional installation is required to maintain your warranty.

Can it be retrofitted to my existing pool?

Absolutely. Claritech systems retrofit directly into most existing filtration lines with minimal disruption. No need to drain your pool. If replacing a chlorinator or salt cell, the Claritech unit fits into the same inline position using the supplied adapters.

Can I use the Claritech system if I already have a Salt Water Chlorinator?

Yes — and this is actually one of the most efficient setups possible. Many people don’t realise that salt chlorinators generate chlorine. While a saltwater pool isn’t truly chemical-free on its own, pairing it with a Claritech system completely transforms how it operates.

  • The Claritech system takes over the heavy lifting — copper and silver ions destroy bacteria and algae, so your chlorinator no longer needs to work hard.
  • Dial it down — because our system handles sanitisation, you can turn your salt chlorinator down to just 10–15% output.
  • The result — at this low setting, your chlorinator produces just enough output to act as a gentle oxidiser, burning off organic waste like sunscreen and sweat, without the harsh side effects of a traditional chlorine pool.
  • Better water, less wear — crystal-clear water with no stinging eyes, no heavy chemical odours, and significantly less wear on your pool equipment.
  • Bonus — the salt in the water actually helps the copper and silver ions disperse even more effectively.

What copper ion level should I maintain?

The target range is 0.3–1.0 mg/L for the NEC-20, and 0.7–1.0 mg/L for the NEC-2000. For optimal performance, aim for the ideal target of 0.3–0.5 ppm. Use the included 3-chamber pool tester to check levels regularly. Adjust the unit’s Current and Time BCD settings to maintain levels within range.

How often do I need to maintain the system?

  • Check copper ion levels weekly using the included test kit — aim for 0.3–0.5 ppm
  • Check pH weekly — keep between 7.2 and 7.4 for optimal ion stability
  • Check oxidiser residual weekly (MPS strips or low-range chlorine test)
  • Clean electrodes periodically by soaking in an acid detergent bath (do not allow liquid to contact the control head)
  • Replace electrodes when the error light illuminates, or approximately every 2–5 years depending on usage

How long do the electrodes last?

  • NEC-20 electrodes (part no. C21031): approx. 2–3 years in pools up to 20,000L (~$415–$625/year at $1,249.99). Lifespan reduces in larger pools.
  • NEC-2000 electrodes (part no. C90009): approx. 3–5 years in pools up to 60,000L (~$600–1,000/year at $2,999.99). Lifespan reduces in larger pools.

The error light will illuminate when electrodes need replacing. Replacement electrodes are available from Claritech.

What happens if the system stops working?

The error light on the unit will illuminate. Refer to the user manual for troubleshooting. If the issue persists, contact us — all units are covered by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty from NECON GmbH.

What warranty is included?

Both the NEC-20 and NEC-2000 are covered by a 2-year limited warranty from NECON GmbH, effective from the date of purchase. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and unit failures under normal use. It does not cover consumables (electrodes), minor defects, or damage from incorrect installation or misuse. Shipping costs for warranty returns are the responsibility of the claimant.

Is the backwash water safe for the garden?

Yes. Claritech-purified water contains no chlorine, salt, or chemical residues, so backwash water is safe to discharge onto lawns and garden beds. The copper ion level in correctly maintained pool water (0.3–1.0 mg/L) is well within safe limits for garden irrigation and consistent with NZ drinking water standards.

Is it environmentally friendly?

Yes — significantly more so than chlorine or salt systems. No chemical waste, no hazardous runoff, no plastic packaging from ongoing chemical purchases. The only consumable is the electrode set, manufactured in Germany and lasting 2–5 years. The NEC-2000 flow cell carries WRAS drinking water certification for its coating.

How much does it cost to operate?

Running costs are very low. The NEC-20 uses just 5W and the NEC-2000 a maximum of 36W — both only run while the pump is active. Electrode replacement is the main ongoing cost:

  • NEC-20: ~$415–$625/year
  • NEC-2000: ~$600–1,000/year

For context, a typical NZ pool owner spending on chlorine, stabilisers, algaecides, acid, and shock treatments can easily spend $800–1,500+ per year — before factoring in chemical wear on equipment and surfaces.