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 cleanses 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. Note: dissolved organics like sweat and sunscreen are microscopic — they dissolve into the water and pass through any physical filter media, so an oxidiser is always needed regardless of filter type.
  • 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 generates enough chlorine to handle oxidation, while the Claritech system takes over 90% of the sanitising load. Note: you'll still need to top up pool salt periodically to keep your chlorinator fed, and monitor pH regularly — salt chlorinators can cause pH drift, so keep pH between 7.2 and 7.4 as part of your weekly routine.

→ 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 pH (Weekly — Non-Negotiable)

This is the most important step and must be done every week. 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 2: Check Your Copper Levels (Weekly at first, then Monthly)

Use the supplied copper ion test kit to check copper levels. Maintain copper ion levels within the target range of 0.7–1.0 mg/L. For the NEC-20, follow the manual's reagent instructions using the tester's middle chamber and low-range copper scale (LR).

  • Break-in period (first 2–4 weeks): Test weekly while adjusting NEC-20 runtime with the supplied timer, or the NEC-2000 Current and Time settings, to achieve 0.7–1.0 mg/L. Every pool is different, so this initial tuning phase is important.
  • Once stable: Once you've found the right setting and the pool is holding steady, you only need to check copper every 2–4 weeks to confirm everything is running as expected.

Step 3: Check Your Oxidiser Residual (Weekly)

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 it reads zero, add your weekly dose.
  • 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. If it reads 0 ppm, add your weekly dose.

By following this simple 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 0.7–1.0 mg/L, consistent with German Drinking Water Directive 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 (0.7–1.0 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): Customer installation is allowed for a straightforward hose-connected setup, provided the installation instructions are followed. Customer installation in this setup does not, by itself, invalidate the warranty or guarantee. Any setup requiring modifications to fixed or high-pressure pipework must be installed by a qualified pool or spa technician.
  • NEC-20 (spas): "Professional installation by a qualified spa or pool technician is required due to the varied plumbing configurations of spa systems.
  • NEC-2000 (in-ground pools): "Professional installation by a qualified pool installer is required. Additional pipework may be required depending on your existing setup.

Most above-ground pool installations are completed in under an hour. Use the supplied NEC-20 timer to regulate the unit's runtime independently of the pump. The unit must only operate while the pump is circulating water.

Can I install it myself?

Yes, if you are installing the NEC-20 on an above-ground pool with a straightforward hose-connected setup and follow the installation instructions. Customer installation in this setup does not, by itself, invalidate the warranty or guarantee.

For NEC-20 spa or in-ground pool installations, or any setup requiring modifications to fixed or high-pressure pipework, installation must be carried out by a qualified pool or spa technician. Professional installation remains required for the NEC-2000. See our Installation Guide, and contact us before installation if you are unsure which requirements apply.

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 actually generate chlorine. While a saltwater pool is not 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% of its total output capacity.
  • The result — at this low setting, your chlorinator produces just enough chlorine 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.
  • Ongoing maintenance: You'll still need to top up pool salt periodically to keep your chlorinator fed, and monitor pH regularly — salt chlorinators can cause pH drift, so keep pH between 7.2 and 7.4 as part of your weekly routine.

What copper ion level should I maintain?

The target copper ion range is 0.7–1.0 mg/L for both the NEC-20 and NEC-2000. Use the included 3-chamber pool tester to check levels regularly. For the NEC-20, adjust runtime using the supplied timer and test using the low-range copper scale (LR). For the NEC-2000, adjust the Current and Time BCD settings according to its manual. Only operate either unit while the pump is circulating water.

How often do I need to maintain the system?

  • Check pH weekly — keep between 7.2 and 7.4 for optimal ion stability (non-negotiable)
  • Check copper levels weekly for the first 2–4 weeks while adjusting NEC-20 timer-controlled runtime or NEC-2000 Current and Time settings, then every 2–4 weeks once stable
  • Check oxidiser residual weekly, or simply add a proactive maintenance dose of oxidiser once a week
  • Top up pool salt as needed (saltwater chlorinator pools only)
  • 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 (0.7–1.0 mg/L) is well within safe limits for garden irrigation and consistent with German Drinking Water Directive 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 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.

Which oxidiser should I use — and why do I need one?

Copper and silver ions are highly effective sanitisers — they kill bacteria, algae, and pathogens. But ionisation cannot oxidise. It cannot break down dissolved non-living organic matter like sunscreen, sweat, body oils, urine, pollen, or other environmental contaminants. These substances dissolve into the water and pass straight through any filter media — sand, glass, or cartridge — because they're not particles. Without an oxidiser, this dissolved organic load accumulates over time, eventually causing cloudy or dull water.

Think of it as a tag-team: the ioniser does the killing, the oxidiser does the cleaning.

For filter pools (sand, glass, or cartridge):

  • MPS / Non-Chlorine Shock (primary recommendation): The cleanest option — oxidises organic waste without adding chlorine. Use weekly or as needed based on bather load.
  • Pool-Grade Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂): A strong oxidiser that breaks down completely into water and oxygen — no chemical residue. Suitable as an alternative to MPS.
  • Natural Enzymes (supplemental): Enzyme-based products help break down oils and organics over time. Best used as a supplement alongside MPS or H₂O₂ rather than as a standalone oxidiser.

For saltwater chlorinator pools: No additional oxidiser is needed. Simply turn your chlorinator down to 10–15% output — at this low setting, it generates just enough chlorine to handle oxidation, while the Claritech system takes over the sanitising load. This is the most efficient setup possible.

Do I still need to maintain my pool during winter?

Yes — reduced, but not eliminated. Even in winter, environmental organics continue to enter your pool: leaves, pollen, rain, runoff, and airborne debris all contribute organic load that needs to be oxidised. The good news is that reduced bather activity means less sweat, sunscreen, and body oils, so your maintenance requirements drop significantly.

Filter pools (sand, glass, or cartridge):

  • Reduce oxidiser dosing to every 3–4 weeks during winter (or every 6 weeks if you're using a pool cover, which significantly reduces environmental contamination).
  • After heavy rain, add an oxidiser dose — rain introduces organic matter and can dilute your copper levels.

Saltwater chlorinator pools: No change needed — keep running your chlorinator at 10–15% output as normal. It will continue to handle oxidation through winter without any adjustment.

All pools — year-round non-negotiables:

  • Test pH and copper levels fortnightly, year-round — even in winter. pH drift is the most common cause of copper staining, and it can happen at any time of year regardless of bather load or temperature.
  • A pool cover is strongly recommended — it dramatically reduces organic contamination, slows pH drift, and can extend your oxidiser intervals significantly.