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Sodium Tetraborate
Sodium Tetraborate, sold under the name Proteam Supreme, and now that the patent has worn out, there are others selling this borate product. Sodium Tetraborate pentahydrate, is a chemical is a EPA registered algaestat that also reduces eye and skin irritation. Borax is used in many other products such as cosmeticsand detergents. A white powder, it is naturally occuring and found in great abundance in the southwest of the US. In earlier times, borax was primarily used as a laundry detergent and is still sold today under brands like 20 Mule Team Borax.
Proteam Supreme and Optimizer plus also claim to give water a softer feel and prevent pink algae, which is actually a bacteria. ProTeam is a helpful ingredient in a chlorine-free program, utilizing Nature2 Technology. Used properly, it tends to stabilize pH and extend the life of chlorine, dramatically reducing chlorine usage.
What Borax or Proteam Supreme also does is prevent organics like algae from processing carbon dioxide. This was a surprise bonus for the inventors, as they began experimenting with different formulations of borates in pool water treatment.
Proteam claims a chemical reduction of up to 50% is obtainable when using the product, and the water's clarity is improved by increasing the water's capacity to hold calcium in solution. This product is a recommended by the Claritec people, and the Pool Janitor.
Proteam does add another chemical to buy, but it can save money on reduced chlorine expense. Initial treatment of a 20,000 gallon pool can be over $100, but then you only need $20 booster treatments every 6 months or so. It is added in 2 half doses of 2 lb per 1,000 gallons. Periodic additions of the product are made for backwashed and splashed-out water.
A test kit is available for testing levels of tetraborate in the water.
