Dechlorinator

Types of Dechlorinators

A dechlorinator is a machine that removes chlorine from the water. Different types of dechlorinators work in different ways to remove or neutralize chlorine in the water. Here are some of them:

• Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) Filters

  The GAC filter is a common type of dechlorinator used in the home. It uses carbon that has been activated to filter out different compounds that may be present in the water. The granules of carbon have a large surface area with many tiny pores. As the water passes through the filter, the chlorine compounds get trapped in the pores. The GAC filter employs the adsorption process to remove chlorine and other contaminants. It may also remove some drugs, heavy metals, and lead. GAC filters are mostly used in Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems.

• Sodium Thiosulfate Powder

  This dechlorinator powder is usually stored in a durable container. It works quickly to neutralize water containing chlorinated municipal water. Sodium thiosulfate is a chemical compound that works by chemically reducing and neutralizing the chlorine in the water. It is a popular option in the aquarium and water treatment industries. In aquariums, sodium thiosulfate instantly makes tap water safe for fish. One major downside of sodium thiosulfate as a dechlorinator is that it may produce sulfates and form some trademark odors in the process.

• Organically-based Dechlorinators

  This dechlorinator is often used to treat water running through pipe networks. It uses a naturally occurring ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) to reduce the chlorine in water. Ascorbic acid works by chemically dechlorinating the water without producing any noticeable side effects or odors. One major benefit of using organic dechlorinators is that they are easy to use in large quantities. They also quickly dissolve in water and instantly neutralize chlorine. Meanwhile, some organic dechlorinators may contain sodium bisulfite. This could possibly produce some characteristic odors and irritant sulfate.

Specification and Maintenance

Specifications for dechlorinators vary by type.

• Flow rate: The flow rate is the amount of water the dechlorinator processes in a set amount of time. It's measured in gallons per minute. Aquarium enterprises need to note the dechlorinator's flow rate and match it with the size of the aquarium water supply line. An appropriately sized flow rate will ensure that the system processes all the chlorine or chloramines in the water before it enters the aquarium.
• Concentration removal: There are various concentrations of chlorine found in municipal water supplies. Some dechlorinators, like those using carbon filters, are designed to remove only a certain concentration of chlorine. Others, like chemical neutralizers, are designed to remove all concentrations of chlorine. Businesses should select a dechlorinator that can handle the concentration of chlorine in their area.
• Grit removal: Some dechlorinators are designed to also remove gravel or other hard particles in the water. A pre-filter is needed to catch those particles before the water goes into the dechlorinator. A common pre-filter for this is a sediment filter. If an aquarium business wants to also remove gravel, they should look for a dechlorinator that includes a sediment filter or buy one separately.
• Size: Dechlorinators come in different sizes, with smaller units taking up more space. A small dechlorinator will work for small water changes but may require longer processing time for larger changes. A large dechlorinator will take longer to process small changes, so businesses should calculate how often they will need to treat water.

Maintaining a dechlorinator is fairly easy, but it does require some care and attention. Here are some of the key tasks required to keep aquarium dechlorinators functioning well:

• Carbon filter changes: The carbon filters in dechlorinators remove chlorine. The filter takes on a large amount of carbon, so it must be changed regularly. Exactly when it needs to be replaced will depend on the size of the filter and usage. An easy way to know when to change it is to monitor the amount of water treated. Calculate the amount of water processed per dechlorinator per filter change based on the size of the filter. Keep a log of this and set reminders based on usage.
• Pre-filter cleaning: Any pre-filters/sediment filters used before the dechlorinator should be cleaned regularly. A sediment filter catches any solid particles in the water before it goes into the dechlorinator, preventing it from getting clogged. Regular cleaning of sediment filters will ensure the pre-filter continues to function well, which helps the dechlorinator as well. Unlike the carbon filter, which needs to be changed, pre-filters only need to be cleaned.
• Disinfecting: The dechlorinator should be disinfected every so often. This will remove the bacteria from debris that collects inside. Bacteria could potentially clog the filtration system or water flow, causing health issues for fish. Businesses should add a dechlorinator to their maintenance schedule to disinfect it monthly, quarterly, or yearly, depending on usage.

Usage scenarios of dechlorinator

The dechlorinator application is wide. It is used in municipal water treatment plants that use chlorine as a disinfectant. The dechlorinator allows these plants to be in a position to flush waste pipeline safely into nearby rivers without compromising the quality of the river water.

The dechlorinator is applied in the wastewater treatment industry. This is where it removes chlorine from treated wastewater before it is released in nearby rivers or streams.

Industries that use chlorine in their manufacturing processes, such as the paper and pulp industry, heavily depend on dechlorinators. These industries use dechlorinators to treat effluent prior to being released into the municipal treatment facilities.

In aquarium and aquaculture industries, dechlorinators are used to neutralize chlorine in tap water before adding it to fish tanks or ponds. This is done to ensure the health of aquatic life. Also, in home and commercial brewing industries, dechlorinators are used to treat water prior to being used in fermentation process during beer production.

In chemical manufacturing industries, dechlorinators are used to prevent chlorine from interfering with chemical reactions during production processes. This applies especially during reaction involving organic compounds.

Dechlorinators are also used in landscaping and agriculture. Here, they are used to neutralize chlorine in tap water prior to irrigation or watering of crops and plants. This is done to avoid damaging plant tissues and root systems.

At home and in laboratories, dechlorinators are used to prepare water for drinking or cooking purposes. Dechlorinators are also used in laboratory settings where pure water is required for reagent and solvent preparation.

How to Choose a Dechlorinator

The following tips will help business buyers select the proper water dechlorinator for their intended use.

• Identify the Target Chlorinated Compound

  Utilize a water test kit to identify the specific chlorinated compound present in the water. Focus on the particular form of chlorine competing against the dechlorinator. Not all dechlorinators are created to remove every type of chlorine.

• Determine the Quantity of Water

  Establish how much treated water is required daily. Select a dechlorinator that can adequately service daily water needs on a continuous basis.

• Consider Water Source Contaminants

  Identify whether the water source contains additional hazardous contaminants. If so, consider equipment that will remove those other impurities as well.

• Think About Long-Term Costs

  Evaluate the upfront costs as well as long-term operating expenses associated with different dechlorinator models. Factor in the long-term cost of replacement filters and maintenance requirements. Choose the option that will provide low ongoing costs over many years of service.

• Read Product Reviews

  Before deciding on a particular dechlorinator model, read reviews from other users who have bought the same unit. Their experiences can help inform a final decision and select the dechlorinator with the highest performance and customer satisfaction.

• Warranty and Customer Support

  Be sure to obtain a warranty for the purchased dechlorinator. This coverage will offer protection against any defects in materials and workmanship. Select a supplier that provides strong customer support, making it easy to get service if needed in the future.

• Validate Claims with Independent Research

  Manufacturers often make claims about the effectiveness and efficiency of their products. However, ensure these claims are supported by unbiased scientific research before purchase.

Dechlorinator Q and A

Q1: How much chlorine is in tap water in the USA?

A1: The chlorine concentration in tap water typically ranges from 2 to 4 milligrams per liter. This amount is sufficient to produce a detectable odor and taste, and it is enough to kill harmful microorganisms in the water.

Q2: Why is the dechlorinator important?

A2: The dechlorinator is important because it makes tap water safe for marine life. Chlorine is a toxic substance to fish and other aquatic animals, and the dechlorinator allows the breakdown of chlorine before introducing the water into the aquarium or fish tank.

Q3: What are the two main types of dechlorinators?

A3: The two main types of dechlorinators are chemical dechlorinators and carbon filtration dechlorinators. The chemical dechlorinator uses compounds like sodium thiosulfate or neutralizing agents like sodium bisulfite to remove chlorine. On the other hand, the carbon filtration dechlorinator employs activated carbon to filter out chlorine from the water.

Q4: How long does the dechlorinator last after use?

A4: Once added to the water, the dechlorinator can remain effective for 24 hours. However, it is best to use the dechlorinator within five days of treatment and store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Q5: Can users add the dechlorinator to a filter?

A5: Yes, users can add the dechlorinator to a filter when treating water for an aquarium or fish tank. It is important, however, to check the manufacturer instructions before adding the chemical to the filter.