Q
 

You say that Premium 5 products are multi-functional. What does that mean?

A
 

All products on the Premium 5 range have been specially formulated to perform up to five pool water treatment tasks simultaneously - hence the name 'Premium 5'. Premium 5 Granules and Tablets are sanitisers first and foremost. They kill bacteria and germs that could be harmful to your family's health. But in addition, ingredients have been added to help prevent green water problems and keep the water crystal clear and inviting. (You should also find the granules dissolve even faster to minimise risk to pool liners). Based on new advances in biocide technology, the Premium 5 Long Life Algicides are not only more effective against algae, but also enhance water quality and help protect the pool from scale formation and staining.

Q
 

If you have added other ingredients to the Premium 5 Granules and Tablets, doesn't this mean I'm getting less chlorine for my money?

A
 

Yes, but only fractionally. The rate of addition of the other elements in the mix is very small; likewise the reduction in chlorine content. Because you are adding the extra ingredients every time you dose the pool with chlorine, you only need small amounts to maintain effective levels of protection.

Q
 

You have 2 versions of Premium 5 Long Life Algicide - copper-based and copper-free. Which one should I use?

A
 

You will get better protection against algae from the copper-based version. Much the same ingredients are used in both, so the addition of copper in the copper-based gives it that extra performance. Copper is known to be extremely toxic to algae, especially when present as copper ions. Therefore it would normally be best to use the copper-based. However, there are circumstances in which it would be more sensible to use copper-free - for instance if the levels of copper in the pool are above 3ppm, or if you are sanitising your pool with an ioniser.

Q
 

How long do the Premium 5 algicides last?

A
 

Both the copper-based and copper-free versions will last for up to 6 months. This means they can be used not only as a treatment for when the pool is in use, but also as a winteriser or spring open-up.

Q
 

If Premium 5 Granules and Tablets have ingredients to combat algae, why do I need to use a long life algicide (or vice-versa)?

A
 

The idea is to use the Premium 5 Long Life Algicide to achieve an effective concentration on opening the pool up at the beginning of the season. Thereafter, regular additions of the Premium 5 chlorines, either in granular or tablet form, will simultaneously add a little bit more algicide and water clarifier to replenish what has been lost in combatting algae, backwashing etc.

Q
 

So what dosing strategy do you recommend?

A
 

For optimum performance, open the pool up with the copper-based Premium 5 Long Life Algicide. Thereafter, sanitise the pool with Premium 5 Tablets, using Premium 5 Granules to boost the free chlorine level quickly if it falls below about 1.5ppm. If further protection against algae is needed during the swimming season, it may be best to use the copper-free Long Life Algicide in case copper levels get too high.
 

Q
 

Should I use Premium 5 Long Life Algicide if the water has already turned green?

A
 

No. The Premium 5 algicides are for preventative rather than remedial use. You will need to shock dose with chlorine. When the algae has been killed, use one of the Premium 5 algicides to help prevent a recurrence.

Q
 

So if I use the Premium 5 range, I will never have pool water problems again?

A
 

You will reduce the chances very considerably, but there are many factors and variables involved in effective water treatment such as maintaining adequate levels of sanitiser at all times, controlling the pH, the effectiveness of the circulation system and the filtration. In a well maintained pool, you should be able to keep the water clear, blue and inviting throughout the year if the Premium 5 products are dosed in accordance with the instructions on the packs.

Q
 

Several of the Premium 5 products contain copper. Is it harmful?

A
 

The aim in using Premium 5 products is to achieve and maintain a working level of copper of around 1ppm. To put this in perspective, the recommended maximum for pool water is 3ppm. The World Health Authority allows up to 10ppm in food, and our recommended dietary intake of copper is 3g per day!

Q
 

Is it alright to use Premium 5 products in pools intended for fish?

A
 

No. Please consult the experts in that field for their recommendations.