Salt Pools: What’s the hype?
Salt is a mineral made of sodium chloride (NaCl). Saltwater pools are not actually chlorine-free; instead, they use a salt chlorine generator to turn dissolved salt (sodium chloride) into active chlorine through electrolysis. The system will maintain a low salinity level, making the water feel softer and gentler on skin and eyes. Salt pools are generally kept between 3,000 – 3,500 ppm, depending on the manufacturer. In comparison, the ocean averages 35,000 ppm.
Back to the Salt Mines
Saltwater pools are not filled with ocean water. Instead, a chlorine generation system converts salt into chlorine. This is accomplished through electrolysis by water passing through a salt cell containing metal plates. Then, a low-voltage electrical current is applied to convert salt into hypochlorous acid (chlorine). The chlorine sanitizes the pool, then naturally reverts back into salt, over and over again. There are two basic styles or types of chlorine generation systems. In-line systems (the most popular type) produce chlorine using salt that is dissolved in the water. Off-line, or the brine method, produces chlorine from a solution of salt and water. If it is too low, the salt chlorine generator will display a low-salt warning and stop making chlorine. If it is too high, the water may taste salty; it can also corrode metal pool parts and shorten the lifespan of your salt cell.
Worth Your Salt
Saltwater pools are still chlorine pools; they generate chlorine on-site from the salt generator. That doesn’t eliminate the need for supplemental chlorine products, such as granular or liquid chlorine. However, with a saltwater pool, you generally need less of these products. Salt does produce softer-feeling water without the harsh chemical smells, red or burning eyes, or dry, itchy skin common with chlorine pools.
Take it with a Grain of Salt
There is indeed a higher initial setup cost to buy and install a salt generator system. It also requires electricity to operate, so your utility expenses will increase. You will also need to replace your salt cell and controller as they wear out over time. Your cell life depends on what percentage you run your cell and how it is maintained. Calcium and mineral buildup can clog the salt cell plates, requiring regular manual inspections and acid cleaning. Also, with the electrolysis process, pH will naturally rise, requiring frequent monitoring and regular additions of acid to balance it. You also need to be aware that salt can corrode metal pool fixtures, ladders, or decking. That is why we install a sacrificial anode on these systems.
Salt of the Earth
Understanding how a saltwater pool works is the first step in determining if a salt system is right for you. If you would like to explore options and costs, give us a call and we can walk you through the process.
