Core Purpose
Why we matter
Our story is built on a simple yet powerful conversation between a father and a son.
When our founder, Jock Hamilton, told his son—our current CEO, Scott Hamilton—why what he did mattered, he didn’t focus on sales figures or chemical formulas. He focused on the impact. He told Scott that United Chemical mattered to the world for one reason - and that reason is why we come to work every day:
What [we] do matters; what we do helps make people happy.
Core Values
Our Compass
How we get there is just as important as the destination. Jock built this company on four pillars that remain embedded in our DNA today. We use these core values as a compass to guide every decision we make:
- Honesty: We are always clear and transparent in everything we do.
- Integrity: We keep our promises – no matter the cost.
- Innovation: We believe in doing things differently – and better. We are never satisfied with the status quo.
- Education: We don’t just sell products; we use every interaction as a teaching tool to empower you.
Our Logo
Decoding our Look
We take our science seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. In fact, our mission is hidden in plain sight right on our bottle.
Our logo features a stylized “U” and “c” to resemble symbols on the periodic table, representing our dedication to hard science and innovation. Beside it, you’ll see a water molecule, signifying our deep connection to water care.
But if you look a little closer—and tilt your head—you’ll notice the position of that molecule suggests a sideways happy face. It’s a small reminder of our big mission: helping make people happy.
Our Story
1972 - Company Founded
United Chemical was founded by Jock Hamilton, a pool service professional with an extensive background in chemistry.
Late 1970's - Hamilton Index
Combining chemical research and real world chemistry Jock develops the first balancing index made specifically for pools - The Hamilton Index.
1981 - Yellow Treat
Yellow Treat is introduced to the market. Soon follows No Mor Problems - a preventative-based formulation. The active ingredient is kept secret.
1987 - A New Home
Due to growing sales and production needs, United Chemical relocated its facilities from City of Commerce, CA to Piru, CA, where it is still headquartered today.
1995 - EPA Registration
United Chemical algaecides became the first sodium bromide-based algaecides to receive EPA registration. In doing so, the active ingredient is listed.
2002 - Loss of the Founder
Jock Hamilton loses his battle with cancer at the age of 61. He is survived by his wife, Jacki, and son Scott. Jacki takes over the company.
2011 - Passing the Torch
Jock's son Scott Hamilton takes the position of CEO. Drawing on his father's lessons and principles, he sets out to reinvigorate the culture around Jock's core purpose and values.
2012 - Swamp Treat
Building on extensive internal research, a new formula is developed for an even more powerful algaecide - dubbed "Swamp Treat".
2024 - New EPA Regulations
EPA updates regulations on Halogens, requiring sodium bromide products to require "not for use in outdoor pools" on labeling due to theoretical bromate formation. United Chemical launches a research study in response.
2026 - First Study Completed
First study of it's kind is published testing real world potential of bromate formation in pools. Results indicate when used as directed bromate levels are within EPA safety tolerances. A second study is planned for EPA submittal.
OUR PROMISE
Happiness Guaranteed
No matter the challenge you face with your pool we will stick by your side and help you succeed. Your happiness is our mission. And few things make people happier than a beautiful clean pool.
