How Floatation Tanks Are Kept Clean and Disinfected

Floatation tanks can provide a blissfully serene environment for relaxation and stress relief, but maintaining their cleanliness and safety is crucial. The methods employed to sanitize and disinfect these tanks ensure that users can enjoy a safe and hygienic experience. This article will explore the most common methods and systems used to keep floatation tanks clean and disinfected.

Disinfectants and Additives

Multiple disinfectants and additives are used to maintain the hygiene of floatation tanks:

UV Light

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a powerful disinfectant and oxidizer. It can effectively kill bacteria, even those protected by biofilm. However, for UV to work, the solution must pass under the light. In most tanks, this is not guaranteed due to the solution not being completely drained. Bacteria also tend to cling to the walls, so while UV can prevent the growth of new bacteria, existing bacteria might remain. Nonetheless, UV sterilization is still a valuable tool in keeping floatation tanks clean and hygienic.

Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2)

Hydrogen peroxide is another powerful disinfectant and oxidizer. It can kill bacteria on contact and burn off organic matter. However, H2O2 is inherently unstable and does not produce residual, making it ineffective if the concentration drops below 30ppm. Additionally, biofilm produced by bacteria can prevent H2O2 from killing the bacteria entirely. It can only prevent the growth of more bacteria.

Ozone (O3)

Ozone is a gaseous disinfectant and oxidizing agent. It is atomized and then injected into the solution, permeating it to kill any airborne pathogens. However, ozone does not leave a residual, meaning it only works while active. Furthermore, bacteria with biofilm can shield themselves from ozone, making it ineffective. Despite these deficiencies, the use of ozone still contributes to the overall sanitization process.

Chlorine and Bromine

Chlorine and bromine are derivatives of the same compound and are both powerful disinfectants and oxidizers. Chlorine leaves a residual, inhibiting bacterial growth, while bromine does not have the chloramine issue that chlorine has. However, chlorine can produce toxic chloramines, and both can be ineffective against bacteria protected by biofilm. Chlorine can also get "locked" in a closed system due to the buildup of cyanuric acid, making it unavailable to kill bacteria.

Vinegar

Vinegar, an organic acid, is used as an additive to dissolve biofilm, making the bacteria vulnerable to oxidants. It is added infrequently to thoroughly clean the tank between uses.

Flocculent

Flocculants are coagulants that collect dissolved particles, assisting in their filtration out of the solution. This helps in maintaining the clarity and cleanliness of the water in the floatation tank.

Enzymes

Enzymes are usually added to assist with the disinfection process by breaking down organic matter, making it easier for oxidants to work.

PH

PH levels are balanced to ensure that sanitizers work effectively. Proper PH balance is essential for the efficiency of disinfectants.

Mechanical Systems

Beyond chemical disinfectants and additives, mechanical systems are often employed to help maintain the cleanliness of floatation tanks:

Cartridge or Bag Filters

Cartridge or bag filters help remove larger particles from the water, improving its clarity and reducing the load on the water treatment system.

Surface Skimmers

Surface skimmers remove debris and contaminants that float on the surface of the water before they can sink, ensuring a cleaner interior environment.

Protein Skimmers

Protein skimmers are particularly effective at removing organic waste and excess nutrients that can lead to algae growth and water contamination. These skimmers work by separating organic compounds from the water, significantly reducing the load on the disinfection system.

Common Combinations

These disinfectants and mechanical systems are often used in combination to ensure the highest level of hygiene:

Combining these methods provides a comprehensive approach to maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of floatation tanks, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for users.