Now that summer is winding down and you’ve already spent lots of time in the water,I want to show you now how to figure out how much pee is in any pool. There’s actually a lot of misinformation on the topic of pee and pools, so I’m gonna do some experiments on my own along with some clever science people in foreign lands and spoiler alert: some of the results are good news and some aren’t, so let’s jump right in.

So this first experiment is to determine how much pee is in an actual sample of pool water using an ingenious method. So I got two samples from my friend’s community pool, where lots of people swim. One from the pool and one from the spa, and then two samples from a friend’s backyard, again one from the pool and one from the spa. I also collected samples from the source water at each location as a control and I’ll explain why in a minute. Now that I have my samples I needed to quickly get to my scientist friend Lindsay in Canada, but lucky for me—-I knew a shortcut.

We are now in the lab of the University of Alberta, and this is Lindsay Blackstock and she is basically a genius. So you are going to help me determine how much pee is in these samples, because we know people pee in the pool. Yes, we have strong evidence that people do pee in the pool. So we’re going to try to find a way that we can measure that pee without actually measuring pee. I’m going to apply my new strategy based on the amount of artificial sweetener that’s in the pool. We know artificial sweeteners don’t come from anywhere except for urine, so that’s the only logical source for them if we find them in the pool,and we know how much artificial sweetener is in the average person’s pee and then using that we can estimate how much pee is in the pool, so we’re going to take this sample,we’re going to bring it over to our sample prep bench, we’re going to filter it, transfer it into some special vials Into this instrument, which is a liquid chromatography system, so this instrument is going to concentrate our sample before it passes it on over to the second instrument,which is a mass spectrometer and the mass spectrometer is able to detect the individual little artificial sweetener molecules one by one. Love it, let’s get to work!

Bring it on over there. Before we run the samples let me explain why I find Lindsay the scientist’s solutions, so brilliant. You can actually take a sample of pool water and directly measure the amount of urea in there,but the problem with that is humans also excrete urea through things like sweat,which is also very common in a pool, so you can’t tell how much of that urea actually came from pee. To get around that she looked at the amount of a certain artificial sweetener in the sample called Acesulfame Potassium, which is really common in food products such as these–oh, and also all of these. So pretty much everything. The reason drinks like these are zero calories is because you taste the Acesulfame Potassium sweetener,but the chemical compounds aren’t broken down at all by your body so more than 99 percent is passed through in your pee,within 24 hours. And therefore the only reason this would be in the pool is if it passed through a person first. And just to be sure you measure the source water at both locations because sometimes trace amounts of the sweetener can be found in the water supply if so we just subtract that from the results.

I love this because we’ve all wondered how much pee is in a specific pool? But Lindsay figured out a really clever way to use proven science to actually answer the question. The mass spectrometer takes about an hour to get results,So while we were waiting,Lindsay told me something that really surprised me. Chlorine in pools is obviously really helpful because it breaks down harmful bacteria,viruses, and microbes that would be harmful or even potentially deadly to humans. However, there is one big downside and that is, it reacts with urine to create a byproduct called trichloramine. So trichloramine is what’s responsible for that chlorine smell that you might get when you enter into an indoor swimming facility It’s also- but if you smell chlorine like straight out the bottle, it has that chlorine smell. Yeah, but but the smell that you smell in a pool is trichloramine, like this is the compound responsible for that characteristic swimming pool smell- if I look skeptical here it’s only because I was; so I devised an experiment of my own to see if this is really true.

For the experiment I got two five-gallon buckets and filled them with pure water,then I added four times the recommended concentration of chlorine for that volume of water to both buckets,and then only in the bucket labeled BI added just a little bit of pee, and I let it sit for a couple days. Alright, so it’s been three days,so this is the moment of truth.  So the first thing I notice is visually, they look the same. You can’t tell one bucket from the other as far as color of water goes. So I’m gonna start and smell this one first. Mmm, so that doesn’t smell like anything, that smells just like water even though this has four times the recommended concentration of chlorine for this volume which makes me nervous to smell this one. What?That is crazy!This smells like a pool even though the only difference between these two is this has a little bit of pee in it. This is a nostalgic smell this smells like summers and vacationing at hotels of pools and water parks,Turns out it was just pee.

So in if trichloramine which again is what is produced when pee reacts with chlorine,was just that classic pool smell that’s not that big of a deal,but the problem is it’s kind of bad news for both your lungs and your eyes. When your eyes are really red after swimming for a while, that’s actually because of the trichloramine from the pee, not the chlorine. Trichloramine also causes things like asthma. In fact studies show asthma is more likely to occur among elite swimmers, than any other high-level athlete, which now makes sense because Michael Phelps admitted to always peeing in the pool, and he says all his buddies do too. So be cool, and don’t pee in the pool. Now let’s go see Lindsay’s results. In Lindsay’s research. She sampled 20 public swimming pools and 10 public hot tubs. The average concentration of sweetener for the pools was 470 nanograms per liter and for the hot tubs was 2,247.

So after running all of my samples we found that here in my friend’s backyard pool,they had a concentration of artificial sweetener of 69 nano grams per liter which equates to just under a gallon of pee. Which is actually much lower than the average,but that makes sense because this would see much less use than a public pool. Their spa had a higher concentration in the pool at103 but since the spa contains much less volume,That equates to about this much pee. So far not bad, and then in this public community pool. We had 27 nano grams per liter of artificial sweetener concentration which for this volume is again a little bit less than a gallon and the spa is higher at a concentration of335 which is about this much for the volume of spa so the concentration of artificial sweetener in this pool and spa is much much lower than the averages Lindsay saw in the 30 samples she collected, which leads me to believe that the water has been completely replaced recently which happens from time to time for various reasons. If this pool has the average concentrations reported by Lindsay, for these volumes we would expect to see over a gallon of pee in the hot tub and about13 gallons in the pool. If you want an estimate of the pee in your own pool, I came up with a simple equation after talking with professor Ernest Blatchley of Purdue University,who mentioned that studies have found that swimmers introduced between 25 and 80 milliliters of urine per swim session. So you take the average number of swimmers that were in your pool per day during the summer, and then you multiply that by 1. 2.

That’s how many gallons of pee are in your pool at the end of the summer and if you think your friends and neighbors pee more than average use 2 as the multiplier and if you think they are more on the courteous side of the range,use 1/2 as the multiplier. As a general rule of thumb, though public pools about this size will contain approximately 13 gallons of pee and Olympic pools will contain- brace yourself – over 130 Gallons. There are some caveats to these generalizations so check out the links in the video description for published papers for both scientists Lindsay and professor Blatchley.

So in conclusion, what does this all mean? Like is this something to be grossed out about? For starters let me just say pee is generally considered to be sterile meaning it’s free from bacteria and any living things. You can totally drink this stuff and not get sick. In fact in some cultures that’s totally a thing. “You drink the grandsons pee, and it’s going to help you”additionally urine is made of 95% water and just 5% of dissolved solids like the urea stuff we’ve been talking about. The fact that pee is so diluted at 95% pure water is in part, disappointingly why it’s really hard to make a chemical you could add to any pool that will magically turn blue if someone pees in it. Having said that I suppose it’s still a little gross knowing you’re swimming in even just a small amount of pee, but I feel all the benefits to your happiness and well-being that can come from swimming, far outweigh any sort of gross factor or minor health risks. I guess at the end of the day my advice would be to be cool and don’t pee in the pool and then at that point-Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming swimming swimming. Just maybe take a shower when you’re done. Speaking of swimming pools, did you know your heart pumps enough blood to fill 4 Olympic sized swimming pools every year, or how about that there’s a hundred lightning strikes on Earth every second, or did you know that it’s so hard or something become a fossil that if all humans currently living right now suddenly went extinct we would only leave behind 8skeletons as fossils somewhere buried in the Earth.

Now if you would have listened to “A Short History of Nearly Everything” on Audible like me, you would have known all of that. This book is a really entertaining synopsis of all the stuff that we know about science, including when and how we learned it. In addition to talking about all the stuff we don’t have answers for you. I really liked it and it’s a big book. But if you use audible and listen to 1. 25 speed like I do while your commuting to and from work,you could knock this out in a little over week. So if you wanna listen to a short history of nearly everything or any other audio book for free, all you have to do is use the link in the description, or go to audible. com/MarkRober. Thanks for watching!”Just keep swimming, just keep swimming swimming swimming”

The Krystal Clear Saltwater System combines a unique two-stage technology to sanitize pool water. First, an undetectable level of natural swimmer-safe chlorine is produced when environmentally friendly natural salt is added to pool water and passes through a titanium electrolytic cell during the filtration process. The result is soft, fresh, clean water without the potential harsh side effects of packaged pool chemicals. Second, with the E.C.O. (electrocatalytic oxidation) process, water molecules are split into highly powerful oxidants which destroy organic contaminants such as bacteria and algae. The combination of these powerful oxidants with natural chlorine results in the strongest and safest pool water sanitation.This second process, unique to the Intex Saltwater System, provides consumers with an important benefit. The process of E.C.O. is so effective; the amount of natural chlorine needed and generated by the system is reduced by approximately 60%. Which means that your customers not only get the great benefits of a saltwater system, they enjoy it with much less chlorine than other saltwater systems generate!• Max. pool size: 15,000 gal (56,800L)• 110-120V with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).• Requires a filter pump with a flow rate between 700-3,000 gph (2,650 – 11,355L/hr)• Chlorine output: 12 g/hr• 24 hr. auto-clock cycle

Product Features

• Max. pool size: 15,000 gal (56,800L). 110-120V with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).
• Requires a filter pump with a flow rate between 700-3,000 gph (2,650 – 11,355L/hr).
• Chlorine output: 12 g/hr. 24 hr. auto-clock cycle.

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Sand filters are one of the most desirable methods to keep pool water clear and sparkling. Not only does the all-natural, inexpensive sand do an excellent job of filtering the water, it needs replacement only once every five years, making sand filter the easiest maintenance filtration option on the market. Saltwater systems with E.C.O. (electro catalytic oxidation) are known for their ability to keep pool water clean and safe, while eliminating the harshness of traditional packaged chlorine. Intex has combined these two excellent systems into one product, providing above ground pool owners with ONE low cost, low maintenance system that will keep pools clean, safe, and comfortable for swimmers. Both systems are controlled automatically with one 24-hour timer to make daily operation care-free!• Designed for use with Above Ground Pools from 2,500 to 7,000 Gallon Capacity. • 110-120V with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). • Same as model 28667EG with additional 1,200gph (4,542L/hr.) filter pump set. • System flow rate 1,050 gph (3,974L/hr.). Chlorine output: 5g/hr.

Product Features

• Designed for use with above ground pools from 2,500 to 7,000 gallon capacity
• 110-120V with GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter)
• Same as model 28667eg with additional 1200gph (4,542L/hr.) filter pump set
• System flow rate 1050 gph (3974L/hr.); Chlorine output: 5g/hour

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11415 Features: -Deluxe pool sectional handle and skimmer. -Five foot sectional handle. -Poly leaf skimmer / sectional pole pack compact retail package includes poly leaf skimmer and 6 piece sectional pole. Product Type: -Skimmers. Dimensions: Overall Product Weight: -1 Pounds.

Product Features

• 4 foot sectional pole for compact storage.
• Breaks down to 6 pieces

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Stock up now with this filter six pack, just the equipment you need to easily take care of your pool. Filter the water in your pool to keep it attractive and refreshing all season Measures 4.25 in diameter x 8 in tall, Filters should be rinsed daily with a garden hose and will usually lasts up to 2 -3 weeks with normal usage. FITS INTEX, * 58631 * 58603 * 56635 * 58623 * 56635 FIT KRYSTAL KLEAR, * 12 * 12R * 02 * 108 * 108R * 635 * 603 * 637

Product Features

• Type “A” Filter Cartridge Intex filter cartridges are made from Dacron material. They are easy to clean and to replace when necessary, usually after about two weeks. Look for the large “A” on the package to make sure you are getting the right size for your filter
• For smaller pumps: 530 gallon per hour – 1,500 gallon per hour
• Fits pumps with both Type A and Type C filters
• For filter pump item numbers: 58603⁄58604⁄56637⁄56638⁄56635⁄56636
• Replace filter cartridge with a new one every two weeks for best results

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28643EG Intex Krystal Clear 1200 GPH Sand Filter Pump. Keep your above ground pool water clean, soft, and refreshing with the Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump by Intex. The all natural sand provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system. The built in 24-hour timer adds to the hassle-free experience with maintaining a cleaner pool. The strainer basket provides easy-cleaning, and prolongs the life of the sand. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump generates a pump flow rate of 1,200 gallons per hour, ideal for above ground pools. This pump requires virtually no maintenance except replacement of sand every 5 years. Pump Flow Rate: 1,200 gph (4.5 m3/hr). System Flow Rate: 1,050 gph (4.0 m3/hr). Includes: 6-way Valve. Pressure Gauge. Heavy Duty Tank. Strainer Basket. Built-in Timer. Powerful Motor.

Product Features

• Keep your above ground pool water clean, soft, and refreshing with the Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump by Intex. The all natural sand provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system.
• The built in 24-hour timer adds to the hassle-free experience with maintaining a cleaner pool. The strainer basket provides easy-cleaning, and prolongs the life of the sand.
• The Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump generates a pump flow rate of 1,200 gallons per hour, ideal for above ground pools. This pump requires virtually no maintenance except replacement of sand every 5 years.
• Pump Flow Rate: 1,200 gph (4.5 m3/hr). System Flow Rate: 1,050 gph (4.0 m3/hr).
• Includes: 6-way Valve. Pressure Gauge. Heavy Duty Tank. Strainer Basket. Built-in Timer. Powerful Motor.

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The Krystal Clear Saltwater System combines a unique two-stage technology to sanitize pool water. First, an undetectable level of natural swimmer-safe chlorine is produced when environmentally friendly natural salt is added to pool water and passes through a titanium electrolytic cell during the filtration process. The result is soft, fresh, clean water without the potential harsh side effects of packaged pool chemicals. Second, with the E.C.O. (electrocatalytic oxidation) process, water molecules are split into highly powerful oxidants which destroy organic contaminants such as bacteria and algae. The combination of these powerful oxidants with natural chlorine results in the strongest and safest pool water sanitation.This second process, unique to the Intex Saltwater System, provides consumers with an important benefit. The process of E.C.O. is so effective; the amount of natural chlorine needed and generated by the system is reduced by approximately 60%. Which means that your customers not only get the great benefits of a saltwater system, they enjoy it with much less chlorine than other saltwater systems generate!• Max. pool size: 7,000 gal (26,500L)• 110-120V with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).• Requires a filter pump with a flow rate between 700-3,000 gph (2,650 – 11,355L/hr)• Chlorine output: 5 g/hr• 24 hr. auto-clock cycle

Product Features

• Max. pool size: 7,000 gal (26,500L). 110-120V with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).
• Requires a filter pump with a flow rate between 700-3,000 gph (2,650 – 11,355L/hr)
• Chlorine output: 5 g/hr. 24 hr. auto-clock cycle.

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28651EG Intex Krystal Clear 3000 GPH Sand Filter Pump. Keep your above ground pool water clean, soft, and refreshing with the Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump by Intex. The all natural sand provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system. The built in 24-hour timer adds to the hassle-free experience with maintaining a cleaner pool. The strainer basket provides easy-cleaning, and prolongs the life of the sand. The Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump generates a pump flow rate of 3,000 gallons per hour, ideal for above ground pools 16’ and above. This pump requires virtually no maintenance except replacement of sand every 5 years. Pump Flow Rate: 3,000 gph (11.3 m3/hr). System Flow Rate: 2,450 gph (9.2 m3/hr). Includes: 6-way Valve. Pressure Gauge. Heavy Duty Tank. Strainer Basket. Built-in Timer. Powerful Motor (.95 HP).

Product Features

• Keep your above ground pool water clean, soft, and refreshing with the Krystal Clear(TM) Sand Filter Pump by Intex. The all natural sand provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system.
• The built in 24-hour timer adds to the hassle-free experience with maintaining a cleaner pool. The strainer basket provides easy-cleaning, and prolongs the life of the sand.
• The Krystal Clear Sand Filter Pump generates a pump flow rate of 3,000 gallons per hour, ideal for above ground pools 16′ and above. This pump requires virtually no maintenance except replacement of sand every 5 years.
• Pump Flow Rate: 3,000 gph (11.3 m3/hr). System Flow Rate: 2,450 gph (9.2 m3/hr).
• Includes: 6-way Valve. Pressure Gauge. Heavy Duty Tank. Strainer Basket. Built-in Timer. Powerful Motor (.95 HP).

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Doheny’s Above Ground Pumps The price is right! Doheny’s Pumps cost less than big name brands, but offers dependable performance and outstanding results for its value. Heavy-duty construction and advanced engineering provide high efficiency and minimized noise. Designed and manufactured to meet all requirements. Note: Not for use with storable pools. Doheny’s Pool Pro Pick Our Pool Pros put our products to the test so you know which products give you outstanding results and value. Tested, tried and true for high quality construction, ease of use, efficiency and reliability – shop this Doheny’s Pool Pro Pick with confidence and SAVE!

Product Features

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• Doheny’s Pro-Pick
• Compare to Hayward PowerFlo LX
• Large, Easy-to-Clean Filter Basket
• 110v AC with 6 Foot Cord

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Sand filters are one of the most desirable methods to keep pool water clear and sparkling. Not only does the all-natural, inexpensive sand do an excellent job of filtering the water, it needs replacement only once every five years, making sand filter the easiest maintenance filtration option on the market. Saltwater systems with E.C.O. (electro catalytic oxidation) are known for their ability to keep pool water clean and safe, while eliminating the harshness of traditional packaged chlorine. Intex has combined these two excellent systems into one product, providing above ground pool owners with ONE low cost, low maintenance system that will keep pools clean, safe, and comfortable for swimmers. Both systems are controlled automatically with one 24-hour timer to make daily operation care-free!• Designed for use with Above Ground Pools from 2,600 to 8,500 Gallon Capacity. • 110-120V with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). • 14 and #34; tank diameter. 0.5 hp. motor. • Pump flow rate 1,600 gph. System flow rate 1,500 gph. • 55 lb. sand capacity or 40 lb. glass filtration media capacity. • Chlorine output: 7 g/hr. 2 pieces of 1.5 and #34; (38mm) hoses. • 2-Year Warranty.

Product Features

• Designed for use with above ground pools from 2,600 to 8,500 gallon capacity
• 110-120V with GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter)
• 14 and No.34; Tank diameter; 0.5 hp motor; Pump flow rate 1,600 gph. System flow rate 1,500 gph
• Chlorine output: 7 g/hr. 2 pieces of 1.5 and no.34; (38Mm) hoses
• 2-Year warranty

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