Maintaining water quality in surf parks presents unique challenges distinct from traditional swimming pools or water parks. But many jurisdictions struggle to define these large bodies of water designed for recreation. As the surf park industry expands, developers are increasingly focused on ensuring their facilities meet both regulatory standards and public expectations for cleanliness. Experts in the field, such as Brad Clawson of Cloward H2O and Nick Neuman of Water Technology Inc., have been working extensively on surf park water filtration systems to address these concerns.

Why Surf Park Water Filtration Is Essential

With surf parks gaining traction globally, filtration systems play a vital role in ensuring wave pool water quality. According to Clawson and Neuman, developers are finding themselves under increased scrutiny due to health codes that historically applied to traditional swimming pools.

“We’ve seen surf parks being classified under the same guidelines as Olympic-sized swimming pools,” Clawson said. “That’s an impossible standard if you’re running surfers through the system.”

Neuman emphasized that while surf parks may resemble swimming pools, they differ significantly in terms of guest density, operational goals, and environmental exposure. As a result, standard swimming pool filtration systems, even at scale, may not be adequate for surf parks.

How Surf Park Water Filtration Systems Work

Filtration systems in surf parks require specialized designs due to larger water volumes and different usage patterns. Clawson explained that these systems typically include multiple recirculation pumps, extensive pipe networks, and specialized filters designed to manage substantial water volumes efficiently.

“You have pumps that pull water from the surf basin,” Clawson said. “That water is sent through filters that capture particles down to a certain micron level, often followed by secondary sanitation like UV or ozone systems for pathogen control.”

Importance of Turnover Rates

Ensuring an even distribution of treated water is critical. Neuman added that developers must account for water turnover rates to balance sanitation effectiveness and system costs.

“Turnover is a major buzzword in the surf park industry,” Neuman said. “It refers to the amount of time it takes for the entire pool’s water to pass through the filtration system once.”

Turnover rates can vary significantly, with some jurisdictions requiring rapid turnover that may prove impractical for large surf lagoons. To meet regulations while maintaining efficiency, Clawson and Neuman recommend customized systems tailored to each surf park’s size, climate, and guest capacity.

Key Filtration Technologies in Surf Parks

Sand Filters

Sand filters are widely used in traditional pool systems. They require significant water for backwashing but offer reliability for large volumes.

Regenerative Media Filters

Though costlier upfront, Regenerative media filters, conserve water during cleaning and require less space in mechanical rooms.

“These Regenerative media filters can save up to 95% of the water used in traditional backwashing systems,” Clawson explained. “In arid environments like desert-based surf parks, this efficiency can result in significant operational savings.”

Secondary Disinfection Systems

Secondary disinfection systems such as ozone and ultraviolet (UV) systems are also common. Neuman highlighted that these systems effectively eliminate pathogens and organic matter, enhancing water clarity and safety.

Regulatory Challenges and Solutions

Many developers have encountered regulatory roadblocks due to surf parks being incorrectly classified as traditional pools. Clawson cites a Texas-based project where authorities initially required a two-hour turnover rate, which he says was unrealistic given the size of the basin.

“Their requirement would have demanded several megawatts of power just to operate the filtration system,” Clawson said. “Thankfully, updated guidance from the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) now allows for engineering certification to determine appropriate turnover rates.”

The MAHC, a CDC-endorsed guideline, has recently included surf parks as a distinct category, providing developers with greater flexibility in meeting water quality standards.

Cost Considerations for Surf Park Water Filtration

The costs associated with surf park water filtration systems vary significantly based on project size, equipment choices, environmental factors and timelines. According to Clawson at Cloward H20 and Neuman at Water Technology Inc., developers should expect to allocate a substantial portion of their budget to these systems.

“For a $30 million surf park project, it’s common for filtration systems and piping to account for a few million dollars,” Clawson said. “That figure increases with added complexities, such as water conservation systems or premium filtration technologies.”

Neuman adds that long-term operational costs must also be considered. Efficient designs can reduce expenses tied to energy consumption and water usage over time.

Designing for Efficiency and Sustainability

Neuman emphasized the importance of balancing initial investment with long-term savings. Systems designed for efficient water movement, minimal energy consumption, and reduced chemical usage are essential for sustainable surf parks.

“The surf park market is entrepreneurial in nature, and many developers are keen on minimizing upfront costs,” Neuman said. “However, investing in sustainable systems can significantly reduce operating expenses.”

Clawson stressed the importance of maintaining water clarity to enhance the guest experience.

“Your guests are going to notice the water quality,” he said. “It’s the focal point of the attraction, and it’s crucial that operators invest in reliable systems that maintain that clarity.”

As surf parks continue to grow in popularity, the importance of robust surf park water filtration systems and wave pool water quality management cannot be overstated. Developers must balance regulatory requirements, environmental conditions, and guest expectations to design effective and sustainable solutions. By investing in advanced filtration technologies and focusing on proper maintenance, surf park operators can ensure a safe, clean, and enjoyable experience for visitors.