Sodium Hypochlorite vs. Benzalkonium chloride: Which One is Better To Kill Moss and Algae?
The growth of moss and algae might cause slippery and dangerous surfaces. To avoid this problem, it is often considered the use of two common chemicals such as Sodium hypochlorite and Benzalkonium chloride. Both are effective, but they act in different ways, each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these differences will help you to make the best decision to solve your moss and algae problems.
Sodium Hypochlorite: Powerful and Acts Quick Results.
Sodium Hypochlorite is a powerful oxidant that is often found in the bleach and many commercial cleaning products. It works by destroying the cells of the moss and algae, with a fast action.
Advantages of Sodium Hypochlorite:
- Quick Results: Able to eliminate moss and algae in minutes or hours after using it, offering quick results.
- Easy to get: It's available in many domestic products, which makes it an affordable option.
- Wide Effect: Besides being effective with moss and algae, it also acts on bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Disadvantages of Sodium Hypochlorite:
- Aggressive for surfaces: It might be corrosive and harmful for some materials such as metals, wood and even can cause the discolor of the surfaces.
- Environmental Impact: It might be toxic for plants, pets and marine life if it is not used the right way, draining of this product might cause the contamination of soil and water.
- Short-Term Effect: Although eliminated fast, it doesn’t prevent the appearance of more moss and algae, which will need more use of the product in the upcoming weeks.
Benzalkonium chloride: Soft and Durable
Benzalkonium chloride, is a quaternary ammonium compound, another common agent to control moss and algae. It works by altering the cell membranes of these organisms, causing their death over time.
Advantages of Benzalkonium Chloride
- Durable protection: Avoids the regrowth of moss and algae after months of the treatment, offering a long-term solution.
- Soft with the Surfaces: It is less corrosive than Sodium Hypochlorite and more safe to use with the surrounding areas such as wood and metals.
- Less harmful to the environment: Although it is a chemical, Benzalkonium Chloride is generally less harmful for plants and pets.
Disadvantages of Benzalkonium Chloride:
- Slower to Act: It might take several days or weeks to show effectiveness.
- Higher Price: Usually all the products that contain Benzalkonium Chloride are more expensive than the solutions that contain Sodium Hypochlorite.
To Summarise
Both Sodium Hypochlorite and Benzalkonium Chloride are effective to eliminate moss and algae. If you are looking for fast results, Sodium Hypochlorite is the right option. If you are looking for a long-term protection and a softer treatment, Benzalkonium Chloride is the best option.