The Mystery of Shade Balls Revealed: What Are They Really For?

TLDRShade balls, also known as bird balls, are black plastic balls used to cover water reservoirs. Contrary to popular belief, their main purpose is not to reduce evaporation but rather to prevent the formation of Bromate, a carcinogenic substance. They are safe for contact with drinking water and are made from high-density polyethylene with carbon black to ensure durability. The shade balls absorb more energy but remain cool on the bottom, reducing evaporation by 80-90%. They cost around $0.33 per ball and provide significant cost savings in chlorination and evaporation.

Key insights

⚫️Shade balls are black to block all light from reaching the water and triggering the Bromate reaction.

🌊Shade balls absorb more energy but remain cool on the bottom, reducing evaporation by 80-90%.

📉Shade balls prevent the formation of Bromate, a carcinogenic substance, by blocking sunlight in open reservoirs.

💲Shade balls cost around $0.33 per ball and provide cost savings in chlorination and evaporation.

🌍Shade balls are made from high-density polyethylene with carbon black and are safe for contact with drinking water.

Q&A

What is the main purpose of shade balls?

—The main purpose of shade balls is to prevent the formation of Bromate, a carcinogenic substance, by blocking sunlight in open water reservoirs.

Do shade balls reduce evaporation?

—Yes, shade balls reduce evaporation by 80-90% by blocking sunlight and preventing the water from absorbing excess heat.

Are shade balls safe for contact with drinking water?

—Yes, shade balls are made from high-density polyethylene with carbon black, a food-grade plastic that is safe for contact with drinking water.

How much do shade balls cost?

—Shade balls cost around $0.33 per ball and provide significant cost savings in chlorination and evaporation.

Can shade balls be recycled?

—Yes, shade balls are recyclable, but they also have a long lifespan and provide cost savings over time.

Timestamped Summary

00:00(shade balls rolling) These are shade balls, and their main purpose is not to reduce evaporation but to prevent the formation of Bromate, a carcinogenic substance. Shade balls are safe for contact with drinking water and are made from high-density polyethylene with carbon black. They cost around $0.33 per ball and provide significant cost savings in chlorination and evaporation.

03:05The problem that led to the use of shade balls in water reservoirs was the formation of Bromate, a carcinogenic substance, when Bromide reacts with chlorine and sunlight. Shade balls block sunlight and prevent the Bromate reaction, making the water safer to drink.

09:00Contrary to popular belief, shade balls actually reduce evaporation by 80-90%. They absorb more energy but remain cool on the bottom, preventing heat transfer to the water surface.

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