Collection: Saltwater System
Saltwater pools use a salt chlorine generator to convert salt into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. The saltwater passes through a salt cell where an electric current causes a chemical reaction. This creates a chlorine gas which dissolves in the water, producing the chemicals that chlorinates and sanitizes the water. This means you're adding salt to the pool instead of chlorine directly.
Saltwater electrolysis primarily produces chlorine gas (Cl2), which then dissolves in the pool water to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ions (OCl-). These chemicals are the active agents responsible for sanitizing the pool.
For most saltwater pools, the ideal salt level ranges between 2,700 and 3,400 parts per million (ppm), with 3,200 ppm being the sweet spot for many, but every pool is different.
- Pros -
Gentler on Skin and Eyes: Saltwater pools are typically softer on the skin and eyes, reducing irritation and dryness.
Lower Maintenance: Once the system is set up, it requires less frequent chemical additions.
Cost-Effective: Although the initial setup cost is higher, the ongoing costs are lower since you're only adding salt instead of buying chlorine regularly.
Consistent Chlorine Levels: The system maintains a steady level of chlorine, reducing the need for constant monitoring and adjustments.
- Cons -
Initial Cost: The upfront cost of installing a saltwater system is higher than a traditional chlorine pool.
Corrosion: Salt can be corrosive to certain metals and pool equipment.
Maintenance: While maintenance is lower, you still need to monitor the system and replace the salt cell every few years, but you can extend the life by cleaning the salt cell of scaling. It's one of the biggest problems with salt chlorine generators is that they tend to produce scaling (or calcium deposits). To keep this at a manageable level, check & clean your cell generator every few months or in the Fall during winterizing. You will occasionally find scaling on the salt cell, but more commonly it forms on the metal plates and goes largely undetected until there’s a problem. When you see it, remove as much as you can with your hand or a gentle brush. if it’s too hard to remove, you might have to make a muriatic acid solution to clean it with. To do that, mix about five parts waters to one-part muriatic acid and pour it directly into the salt cell in a bucket. Let it sit for 10 minutes or so. Finally, you can wash out the inside of the cell with water.
*Use a copper free algaecide. We use Algaecide 60.*
When handling please wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and masks, to protect your skin, eyes, and respiratory system when handling chemicals. Also wear cloths you don't care about, because chemicals will destroy clothing if in contact.
Keep Chemicals out of reach of children and animals!
