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 — above-ground pools and spas up to 20,000 litres
  • NEC-2000 — in-ground pools up to 60,000 litres

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?

  • No chlorine, no salt, no harsh chemicals
  • 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

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 — no pH adjustment is required. Both systems operate effectively across a pH range of 6.5–9.5, which covers virtually all residential pool conditions.

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.

Does it work with saltwater pools?

Yes. Copper-silver ionisation is compatible with saltwater pools and in many cases complements the existing system. Some pool owners choose to turn off their salt chlorinator entirely and rely on ionisation alone.

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. 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 regularly using the included test kit
  • 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 (~$415–$625/year at $1,249.99)
  • NEC-2000 electrodes (part no. C90009): approx. 3–5 years (~$600–1,000/year at $2,999.99)

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.