Regular cleaning and sanitizing are important must-do tasks if you own a pool. After all, nobody wants to jump into an algae and bacteria-infested pool. The good news is, pool ionizers are now available to help you cross these tasks off your to-do list. Although they don’t completely replace chemicals, they at least help minimize the amount you and your pool are exposed to.
If you’re reading this, you’re most likely on the lookout for a good solar pool ionizer.
What to Consider When Buying a Solar Pool Ionizer
Solar pool ionizers are relatively new innovations, so it’s understandable if you don’t know how to pick the best one. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve identified the most important features of a solar pool ionizer below.
Capacity
When we say capacity, we mean your pool’s capacity. Before you even start looking for solar pool ionizers, you have to know your pool’s capacity first.
The average pool ionizer treats about 15,000 gallons of water. If you have a larger pool, don’t worry, as some ionizers clean up to 50,000 gallons of water. That’s not to say that you can’t use high ionizer capacities in smaller pools. It just means that you have to be very cautious and meticulously monitor your pool water’s ion levels, so it doesn’t reach a harmful or ineffective level.
Anode bar
One of the most important components of a solar pool ionizer is the anode bar. This is the part of the ionizer that’s responsible for releasing the ions. Anode bars are usually made of copper, but some models also use silver and zinc. There are three key elements to look out for when inspecting the solar pool ionizer’s anode bar.
The first is its size. Just like the ionizer’s size in relation to pool capacity, the anode bar size must be adequate for your pool’s size.
Next is the anode bar’s efficiency. You want an anode bar that releases a sufficient amount of ions to sanitize your pool.
Finally, you want an anode bar that has a long lifespan. Look for ionizers with anode bars that have at least a year’s life in them. However, some solar pool ionizers include a free anode bar, so that’s always a great feature to consider.
User-Friendliness
A good solar pool ionizer is easy to use and straightforward to maintain.
It’s always best to pick a solar pool ionizer that comes as a complete kit with instructions and materials for maintenance.
At the very least, get a solar pool ionizer kit with a wire brush and a basket. A copper tester is a useful additional component, too.
The basket serves as a reservoir for collecting whatever falls from the anode, preventing it from ending up in the water.
On the other hand, the wire brush is great for scrubbing the accumulated layers of iron and calcium off the anode bars. These minerals can cause your solar pool ionizer to lose its efficiency. Brushing them off is always a good habit to ensure your ionizer works at its best.
Solar Pool Ionizer Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pool ionizer?
Pool ionizers are small disc-like devices that serve as an alternative way of sanitizing a swimming pool.
Before pool ionizers, intensive use of chlorine and bromine was the most common way of cleaning pools. Pool ionizers do not eliminate the need for these chemicals. Rather, they reduce the amount you need to use. It’s great for reducing the harsh effects of these chemicals and is especially helpful for people who are sensitive to them.
How does a pool ionizer work?
Simply put, pool ionizers use electricity to produce silver and copper, which are the substances responsible for cleaning the pool.
Silver is known for its bactericidal properties, meaning it is effective in killing bacteria.
On the other hand, copper has been proven to be effective in killing algae and preventing its formation.
The ionizer uses a low-voltage direct current to energize the silver and copper within it. The ions are then dispersed into the pool when water rushes through the ionizer. The ions then float in the pool. Once they encounter their respective microorganisms, they attach themselves to them to eventually destroy them.
What’s the difference between electrical ionizers and solar pool ionizers?
The main difference between electrical ionizers and solar pool ionizers is their power source. Electrical ionizers are plugged into a wall socket to generate energy from the electrical grid. Solar pool ionizers, on the other hand, harvest solar energy through solar panels. The collected energy is what is used to power the device.
Another difference is the method of use. Electrical ionizers are installed into your pool’s circulation system. On the other hand, solar pool ionizers are just free-floating devices that you throw into the pool when sanitizing.
Solar Pool Ionizer Reviews
1. CopperFlo Solar Pool Ionizer
The CopperFlo is a great choice for almost all pool types, yet it’s especially suitable for larger pools. This is thanks to CopperFlo’s large capacity to clean up to 45,000 gallons of water.
Another standout feature of the CopperFlo is the extremely long lifespan of its anodes. They last an impressively long two to three years before they need replacing. That’s probably the longest on this list.
Another appealing feature of the CopperFLo is that it has recently updated its design and product to increase ionization. CopperFlo now claims its updated product to create 25% more ions than its prior models and competitors.
In terms of ease of use, the CopperFlo comes as a complete kit with a basket, wire brush, and test strips. The package comes with a detailed instruction manual, which is also readily accessible online.
Warranty-wise, the CopperFlo tops the charts. Their products come with a lifetime replacement warranty. Well, it’s not totally free for a lifetime. It offers a free replacement for the first year and a lifetime 50% off the original price after that.
Another CopperFlo offering that ensures the durability of their product is the Buddy Band included with the package. It’s an elastic that acts as a protective band against scratches, dings, and other potential damage risks.
Aside from the warranty, CopperFlo is also generous with their anode replacement kits. Once you purchase the initial complete package, you automatically get a 50% discount on the anode replacements that.
It’s really hard to fault the CopperFlo, but perhaps the price is one factor that could set it back. It’s not the most expensive, yet it’s not the least expensive solar pool ionizer out there as well. But we do think the price is definitely worth its impressive features.
Overall, the CopperFlo is a top choice for a solar pool ionizer packed with superior features.
Pros:
- Large capacity of up to 45,000 gallons.
- Long anode lifespan of 2-3 years.
- Produces 25% more ions than similar products.
- Complete, easy-to-use kit.
- Lifetime replacement warranty.
- Includes a Buddy Band for ensuring the durability of the ionizer.
- 50% discount on anode replacement kits after the initial purchase.
Cons:
- Price above average.
2. Generic Solar Pool Ionizer
Generic is an Amazon retailer of solar pool ionizers.
The key feature of the Generic brand is its extremely affordable price. This solar pool ionizer’s current price is about 35% cheaper than our top pick on this list. Additionally, it costs a whopping a third of the price of our premium pick. That’s a huge difference either way, especially if the price is one of your factors when choosing your solar pool ionizer.
This Generic solar pool ionizer also comes with dual anodes – a copper bar and a spring coil. These two materials, combined, contribute more to the efficiency of your pool sanitation and cleanup.
In terms of capacity, the Generic treats up to 25,000 gallons of water, making it ideal for medium-sized pools.
Generic claims to have long-lasting anodes. However, they have not specified the maximum lifespan. We dug around and found that some users lasted a year on their Generic anodes before replacement. So that’s a really good lifespan, especially for its price.
Perhaps the only thing setting back the Generic solar pool ionizer is the brand’s lack of warranty. However, considering its price, not having a warranty is probably not too much of an issue.
In short, if you’re after a super affordable solar pool ionizer that does the job, the Generic brand is the top choice.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable price.
- Dual anodes – spring and bar.
- 25,000-gallon capacity.
- Long-lasting anodes – up to a year.
Cons:
- No warranty included.
3. Remington Solar Pool Ionizer
Remington Solar is a Texas-based, American-owned company that manufactures solar ventilation systems and solar pool ionizers.
Versatility incapacity is a notable feature of the Remington Solar Pool Ionizer. It comes in two variants: the original and the mini. The original cleans up to 22,000 gallons of water, while the mini’s 10,000-gallon capacity is great for much smaller pools. The Remington Solar Pool variants are generally for small-to-medium-sized pools. But that’s not to say you can’t use them if you have larger pools. You can easily use two 22,000 units to service your bigger pools.
It’s also versatile in pool type. While some solar pool ionizers are only meant for specific types of pools, the Remington is different. It’s safe to use in all types of pools, such as above-ground, inground, non-salt, and saltwater pools. It also goes beyond pools, as this solar pool ionizer is also fit for use in fishponds.
The Remington is an easy-to-use and low-maintenance pool ionizer. It comes as a complete package to includes a basket, a wire brush, and test strips. The anode bar comes with a one-year lifetime, which is well within the average lifespan of anodes.
Finally, the Remington comes with a 30-day no-risk guarantee. It gives you the chance to decide if you like it or not. And if you eventually do, the product is backed with a further one-year warranty.
The only setback we can think of with this solar pool ionizer brand has to do with its anode bars. Some people seem to find it a bit hard to find replacements in their local areas.
Overall, the Remington is a good option for a reasonably priced and feature-rich solar pool ionizer.
Pros:
- Versatile capacity – available in 10,000-gallon or 22-gallon variants.
- The versatile pool is type-safe for use in all pool types as well as for fishponds.
- Easy to use and low-maintenance.
- 30-day no-risk guarantee.
- One-year warranty.
Cons:
- Anode bar is hard to find a local brick-and-mortar shops – available online.
4. Hilltop Star Solar Swimming Pool Ionizer
Hilltop Star joins the list of Amazon Retailers offering solar pool ionizers.
If you’re after a solar pool ionizer for smaller pools, this product may be the answer to your search. It has a 14,000-gallon capacity, great for small pools and adequate for even medium-sized pools.
A standout feature of the Hilltop Star solar pool ionizer is its LED ionization indicator. It is certainly a unique feature not found on any of the products on this list. It glows a bright blue light to let you know that the unit is working. The LED light is also helpful for warning you if your pool’s chemistry is out of range. It also alerts you if the basket needs to be emptied. This feature is definitely helpful when it comes to monitoring and maintaining your solar pool ionizer’s integrity.
In terms of inclusions, the Hilltop Star trumps all of the products on this list. This superiority is because this brand includes two of each with your purchase. That means you get two spring coils, two anode bars, and two baskets. It’s a great addition that saves you from further purchases for a while.
Warranty-wise, the Hilltop Star may not offer a year-long warranty, but it offers something as opposed to nothing. The brand gives a 180-day warranty period, which is enough to last you at least one whole season. The saving grace is that this can be extended to a length 24-month warranty at an additional price.
One major disappointment we have with this solar pool ionizer brand is the lack of instructions that come with it. That makes use and maintenance a bit tricky unless you have previous experience with similar products.
Another less major issue is the fact that the 24-month warranty comes at an additional expense. Although looking at it from another angle, it’s great that the brand gives its consumers a choice. You can either spend more for a longer warranty or take it as it is with its limited 180-day replacement period.
In summary, the Hilltop Star is a great choice for small-sized pools or when you want an easily monitored solar pool ionizer.
Pros:
- Ideal for smaller pools at a 14,000-gallon capacity.
- LED ionization indicator for monitoring the status of your pool ionizer.
- Great inclusions – two of each essential accessory.
- 180-day warranty period extendable to 24 months.
Cons:
- No instruction manual is included in the package.
- Extending the warranty to 24 months requires additional costs.
5. XtremepowerUS 90120 Solar Pool Ionizer
XtremePowerUS is a Chicago-based distributor of a diverse range of products from pool equipment to power tools and hunting gear.
The best feature of the XtremePowerUS is its 32,000-gallon capacity. It’s a suitable option for medium to large-sized pools but can also be safe to use for smaller pools.
It’s also versatile in its pool-type application. It works for standard pools, saltwater pools, above-ground, and in-ground pools.
The XtremePowerUS is also a straightforward solar pool ionizer. It’s sold as a complete kit containing everything you need to set up and maintain it.
The XtremePowerUS is also a pretty efficient pool ionizer. It’s able to reduce your pool’s chlorine demands anywhere between 80%-90%, which is great, especially if you’re sensitive to chlorine.
One of the issues we discovered with the XtremePowerUS kit is its testing strips. They don’t have any instructions with them. There is a number and color chart but no indication of what they actually mean.
Another thing is that the XtremePowerUS does not come with any warranty, which is disappointing considering most ionizers have one.
Overall, the XtremePowerUS is a good alternative for an affordable solar pool ionizer for medium to large-sized pools.
Pros:
- 32,000-gallon capacity is suitable for medium to large-sized pools.
- Safe to use in different pool types.
- Efficient – reduces chlorine demands by 80-90%.
- Easy-to-use, complete kit.
Cons:
- Testing strips come with no instructions at all.
- No warranty included.
6. No More Green Technologies Solar Pool Ionizer
No More Green Technologies is an Arizona-based company offering solar pool ionizers and LED lights. Interestingly, they also claim to be the “home of the original solar-powered ionizer.” We won’t get into this discussion of who really pioneered the technology, so we will leave it at that.
The No More Green Technologies solar pool ionizer can treat a pool with up to 35,000 gallons in capacity. It works on both salt and non-salt water pools and is safe to use on any type of pool finishings.
Efficiency-wise, this brand of solar pool ionizers claims to reduce the number of chemicals your pool needs by up to 85%.
Another key feature is the warranty, which is comparable to the top product on this list. The company offers a lifetime replacement warranty, with a one-year no-fee replacement and a 50% discount for subsequent replacements.
Finally, the solar panels on this solar pool ionizer are covered with a thick, protective material. This encasement significantly lengthens your solar panels’ lifespan, effectively increasing the ionizer’s life, too.
A really major setback to the No More Green Technologies solar pool ionizer is that its high maintenance. You do have to clean the anodes weekly if you want it to run properly and efficiently.
There’s also no indication of the lifespan of the anodes. This is probably a less major issue as the brand has a lifetime replacement warranty anyway.
In short, the No More Green is a cheaper alternative for a solar pool ionizer backed with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- 35,000-gallon capacity.
- Claims to reduce pool’s chemical requirements by up to 85%.
- Lifetime replacement warranty.
- Solar panels are protected by the thick encasement.
Cons:
- High maintenance – needs weekly cleaning.
- Unspecified anode lifetime.
7. GoyTech Solar Pool Ionizer
GoyTech is an Amazon store specializing in the distribution of various pool-related products and accessories.
Capacity is one great good feature of the GoyTech solar pool ionizer. It’s effective for treating a variety of pool sizes with up to 32,000 gallons of capacity.
Perhaps the standout feature of the GoyTech solar pool ionizer comes with its anodes. This ionizer comes as a complete set, with two copper anodes included. This means you don’t have to worry about sourcing anode replacements for a while.
Efficiency-wise, the GoyTech ionizer may not be the most efficient, but it’s well within average. This solar pool ionizer is capable of cutting down your chlorine usage by up to about 80%.
Price is also a key feature of the GoyTech solar pool ionizer. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s definitely one of the most affordable solar pool ionizers in the market.
One major drawback to this solar pool ionizer brand is the after smell it leaves on your pool. Some user feedback that they tested it on a saltwater pool, and somehow, this resulted in a very strong metallic older. We certainly haven’t experienced this in other brands, so not sure why this is.
Another more minor issue is that the GoyTech solar pool ionizer does not come with any warranty at all.
In summary, the GoyTech is another cheaper ionizer alternative for medium-sized pools with a replacement copper anode.
Pros:
- 32,000-gallon capacity.
- Two copper anodes are included in the package.
- 80% efficient at reducing chemical requirements.
- Affordable price.
Cons:
- Leaves a strong metallic after smell when used with saltwater pools.
- No warranty included.
8. EAAZPOOL Solar Pool Ionizer
EAAZPOOL is yet another Amazon retailer focused on the marketing and distribution of solar pool ionizers.
It has a capacity of 35,000 gallons, which is not the largest but is good enough to treat medium-to-large pools.
The EAAZPOOL is also an efficient solar pool ionizer. Its ability to regulate algae’s growth and reduce chlorine needs is ranked at 85%, which is well above average.
The key selling point of this brand of solar pool ionizers comes with its anode bar size. It reportedly has the largest copper anode in the current market, at 80g over its competitors. A larger anode means more copper to ionize, resulting in a longer lifespan and less frequent replacing.
In addition to a longer-lasting copper anode, EAAZPOOL backs their ionizer by a one-year warranty period.
Perhaps one improvement that EAAZPOOL can make for future upgrades is the quality of the solar panel encasement. It’s sturdy, but it feels a bit thin and may not be able to protect the solar panel’s long-term adequately.
Another thing is perhaps improving the content of its instruction manual. It does have basic instructions in them, but it could do with more information.
Overall, the EAAZPOOL is another great cost-effective alternative for a solar pool ionizer for mid-to-large-sized pools.
Pros:
- 35,000-gallon capacity.
- Efficient with an 85% chlorine-reduction ability.
- One-year warranty period.
- Largest anode bar size in the current market.
Cons:
- Thin solar panel encasement.
- The instruction manual could do with content improvement.
9. Suntouch Treasures Solar Pool Ionizer
Suntouch Treasures is also an Amazon Retailer of solar pool ionizers.
Capacity-wise, the Suntouch Treasures solar pool ionizer is suitable for most pool sizes, thanks to its 35,000-gallon capacity. It’s also suitable and safe to use for all pool types, from salt to non-salt pool waters.
A great feature of this solar pool ionizer brand is the extended lifetime of its anode copper bars. They last a remarkably long two-year lifespan. That translates to up to two years of not having to worry about replacing them.
The next key feature also boils down to the copper electrodes. While most solar pool ionizers come with a single copper electrode, the Suntouch Treasures solar pool ionizer comes with two copper bars. That’s up to four years of anode lifetime combined.
In most products on this list, we’re quite disappointed that they don’t come with warranties. However, we might let it pass with this one, thanks to the above amazing anode bar features. But then again, it doesn’t really come completely without a warranty. Suntouch Treasures solar pool ionizer offers a 60-day no-question refund, which to us is as good as a warranty anyway.
Maintenance is one of the things pushing the Suntouch Treasures solar pool ionizer towards the end of our list. It requires regular maintenance as frequently as every couple of weeks.
Another thing is the surface covering the solar panels could do with some improvement. We noticed a bit of moisture seeping into it after a few uses, which may damage the panel’s long-term.
Overall, if you don’t want frequently replacing anode bars, the Suntouch Treasures solar pool ionizer is a great option.
Pros:
- 35,000-gallon capacity.
- Long anode bar lifespan of two years.
- Comes with two copper electrodes in the package.
- 60-day no-questions refund.
Cons:
- Needs cleaning every two weeks.
- Moisture tends to seep into solar panels.
Conclusion
While you can’t eliminate the use of chemicals when sanitizing your pool, pool ionizers certainly help reduce their levels. What’s great is that you can also use cost-efficient, sustainable, and eco-friendly means by using solar-powered ones.
The best solar pool ionizer we have encountered so far is none other than the Remington Solar Pool Ionizer. It’s a brand that’s definitely superior to its competitors in terms of the essential features to look out for. Its huge capacity, extremely long anode lifespan, and lifetime warranty period undoubtedly make it the best of the best.