Clear Comfort Water

Clear Comfort Water operates as a developer and manufacturer of water treatment systems, positioning itself within the cleantech and environmental services sectors. Founded in 2014 by Steve Berens and Nick Rancis, the company emerged from the adaptation of a proven industrial water treatment technology for the recreational water market. The core technology originated from an engineer's three-decade experience with harsh industrial chemicals, which spurred the invention of a healthier alternative initially tested in a bathtub. This led to the creation of Silver Bullet Water Treatment in 2011 for industrial applications, and subsequently Clear Comfort in 2014 for pools and spas.

The company's business model centers on the sale of its patented Hydroxyl-Based Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) systems. This technology creates hydroxyl radicals—highly reactive oxidative compounds—directly in the water to destroy contaminants. This process significantly reduces the need for traditional chemicals like chlorine by 30-50%, minimizing harmful disinfection by-products and eliminating issues like skin irritation and chemical odors. Revenue is generated through the sale of these systems, which are available for residential, commercial, and industrial use, and through the recurring sale of annual replacement cartridges required for the systems' operation. Pricing for residential systems starts from approximately $1,795 to $3,075, depending on the model.

Clear Comfort serves a diverse client base, including residential pool and spa owners, commercial aquatic facilities, waterparks, resorts, universities, and professional sports teams. A significant milestone was the acquisition of its parent company, Silver Bullet Water Treatment, in April 2023. This strategic move consolidated their market position and expanded their portfolio to include agricultural applications, livestock drinking water, and cooling towers, effectively broadening their reach into both the 'Play' (recreational) and 'Thrive' (industrial) water sectors.

The product itself is a single-stage system that treats the full flow of water by taking ambient air, creating atomic oxygen, and injecting it into the return line, where it reacts with water (H2O) to form hydroxyl radicals. This method is distinct from other AOP systems that often combine UV and ozone. Benefits for the end-user include healthier, clearer water that feels softer, extends the life of pool equipment by being non-corrosive, and is more environmentally friendly due to reduced chemical usage and energy efficiency. The system's design emphasizes low maintenance, requiring only a simple, one-minute cartridge exchange annually. Keywords: water treatment, AOP systems, hydroxyl-based oxidation, pool sanitation, chlorine reduction, cleantech, water purification, commercial aquatics, agricultural water, sustainable water