What are the pros and cons of a saltwater pool?
Why You Might Want a Saltwater Pool
- Saltwater systems may be safer. While there are arguments over whether the pool water itself is safer when a saltwater system is used, there is no doubt that handling salt ...
- Saltwater may be easier on the skin and eyes. ...
- There will also be less chlorine smell because of the lower chlorine levels in a saltwater pool.
What are the pros and cons of salt water pools?
chlorinated pool
- Cost. The cost of a saltwater pool is initially more than a chlorine pool. ...
- Maintenance. A saltwater pool is easier to maintain than a traditional pool. ...
- Smell. A saltwater pool doesn’t have the same chlorine smell as a traditional pool. ...
- Effects. A saltwater pool won’t have the same harsh effects of a traditional chlorine pool. ...
- Pool effects. ...
What are the problems with salt water pools?
- The cell housing breaks when you attempt to clean it.
- The cell life shortens as the high voltage/amperage cannot penetrate the scale on the plates.
- The pool becomes a swamp when the cell scales up.
- The electronic box blows - due to scale on the cell or salt ppm above 5000 in the pool.
What are the benefits of a saltwater pool?
Salt water pools offer five health benefits:
- Great for the Skin Chlorine can leave our skin dry and itchy after a swim. ...
- Anti-Stress Properties The more stressed we are, the less our bodies are able to function properly. ...
- Alternative to the gym Exercise is important to our overall health. ...
What is the advantage of having a salt water pool?
Because they have lower chlorine levels, saltwater pools are gentler on the eyes and skin. Research indicates that saltwater systems may be safer than chlorine pools, which require pool owners to store and handle harsh chemicals. Saltwater pools produce softer-feeling water, which many find desirable.
What are the pros and cons of a salt water pool?
The Pros and Cons of Saltwater PoolsPRO: Saltwater pool is softer on your eyes and skin.CON: A saltwater pool is more expensive than a chlorine pool.PRO: They usually require less maintenance than chlorine pools.CON: Saltwater pools require expert technicians for repairs.More items...•
How does a saltwater pool system work?
Saltwater pools rely on an electrolytic chlorine generator (ECG). The generator separates the salt in the pool water into its two primary elements, one of which is chlorine. The chlorine is then circulated into the pool to sanitize and disinfect the water.
What is the difference between salt water pools and regular pools?
Saltwater pools require a special salt chlorine generator to convert salt into chlorine. Chlorine pools, on the other hand, merely require a pump (to circulate the water in your pool, which prevents dirt, bacteria, and algae from multiplying in the water), and cleaning equipment. Chlorine is fixture-friendly.
What is the healthiest pool system?
Ultraviolet systems provide the healthiest water available for pools & spas by dramatically reducing chlorine and other chemicals we have traditionally used. Chlorine used to disinfect swimming pools is widely recognized as a health hazard.
How hard is it to maintain a saltwater pool?
Is a salt water pool easier to maintain? Yes, a salt water pool is easier to maintain! There's no need to purchase, store and add chlorine to your pool. Simply add salt and your pool's salt chlorinator will do all the work of making chlorine.
Can you put chlorine in a saltwater pool?
Chlorine can and should be added to a saltwater pool if necessary. Since a saltwater pool uses chlorine for disinfection, adding additional chlorine is safe in a saltwater pool. The aim is to keep chlorine levels between 1 and 5 ppm. If your chlorine levels are low, by all means, add some additional chlorine.
Which is better saltwater or chlorine pool?
One of the major benefits of saltwater systems is that they have significantly lower levels of chlorine than traditional chlorine systems and don't require harsh chemicals. As a result, the water is gentler on your skin, eyes and hair, and it does not fade swimwear or towels the way that chlorine pools do.
How do you maintain a saltwater pool?
1:057:539 Common SALT WATER POOL MAINTENANCE Mistakes - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd eyes mistake number two not testing your free chlorine levels each week like we said your saltMoreAnd eyes mistake number two not testing your free chlorine levels each week like we said your salt water generator produces chlorine. And that means you need to test and balance your free chlorine
Can you open your eyes in a salt water pool?
Gentle on Eyes – Saltwater pools have much less salt than the ocean. When you open your eyes under water or get splashed in the face, it doesn't sting. The salt concentration is very similar to that of human tears.
Can salt water pools be heated?
Can Saltwater Pools Be Heated? Saltwater pools are heated in the same way as standard chlorinated pools. These methods include a solar heater, solar blanket, heat pump, or an electric, gas, or propane heater. The least expensive and most eco-friendly is solar.
Do salt water pools get algae?
You might not realize this, but algae are constantly getting into your saltwater pool through various means. Depending on the type of algae, it can latch onto your swimwear, your floats or pool toys, your pool equipment, or algae spores enter your pool through rainwater or a random gust of wind.
Is it better to have a saltwater pool or chlorine?
One of the major benefits of saltwater systems is that they have significantly lower levels of chlorine than traditional chlorine systems and don't require harsh chemicals. As a result, the water is gentler on your skin, eyes and hair, and it does not fade swimwear or towels the way that chlorine pools do.
Which is better saltwater or freshwater pool?
The basic takeaway is this: Saltwater pools are gentler and lower maintenance than freshwater pools, but they do leave less up to the pool owner. If you're the kind of pool whiz who likes to be able to control every single aspect of the swimming experience, then you'd probably prefer a freshwater pool.
How expensive is it to maintain a saltwater pool?
A salt water pool typically costs $50–$100 per year to maintain. Compare this to traditional chlorine pools, which cost $250–$300 per year. Replacing the cell unit costs $700–$900 every 3–7 years.
Do salt water pools get algae?
You might not realize this, but algae are constantly getting into your saltwater pool through various means. Depending on the type of algae, it can latch onto your swimwear, your floats or pool toys, your pool equipment, or algae spores enter your pool through rainwater or a random gust of wind.
What is a Salt Water Pool?
A salt water pool is a pool that is chlorinated using a special piece of equipment and ordinary salt. This works because ordinary salt is chemically made up of two elements–sodium and chlorine. The special salt cell turns the salt into hypochlorous acid, which is the same substance used in many traditional pools.
What Kind of Filters Do Salt Water Pools Use?
Most types of pool filters can be used with saltwater systems, including sand filters, cartridge filters and diatomaceous earth filters . Each has advantages and disadvantages. One important thing to remember is that the filter will need to run a lot because the pool is only generating chlorine when the filter is on.
Are Salt Water Pools More Expensive or More Difficult to Own?
Salt water pools are definitely more expensive to start. However, over time the cost may even out. The main expenses involved in starting a salt water pool include the purchase of the salt cell and pump, and the pool salt itself. The salt cell needs to be replaced in 3-7 years, and it can cost $300-$800. However, the life of the salt cell is dependent on how much it is used. Read my full saltwater pool cost breakdown for a more in-depth look.
What Kind of Maintenance Does a Salt Water Pool Require?
The main maintenance tasks for salt water pool owners are testing and washing the salt cell. Water testing is still required because chlorine is only one of the parameters that needs to be controlled in order to maintain a healthy pool. If the pH or other parameter is not where it should be, the addition of certain chemicals may be necessary to balance the system.
How Do You Winterize a Salt Water Pool?
Saltwater pools have a few unique issues when it comes to winterizing. One of them is that the sensors on the salt system can become inaccurate when the water gets too cold. Besides possibly giving faulty readings about salinity, the other issue is that most systems are calibrated to shut down at around 50-59 degrees F when the system gets too inaccurate.
Why are saltwater pools so gentle?
Saltwater pools are more gentle on the skin, eyes, bathing wear, and hair due to the lower chlorine content. They also don’t have the traditional heavy chemical smell that many people dislike about chlorine pools.
How does salt chlorine work?
Salt chlorine generators use electricity and dissolved salt to convert sodium chloride, or table salt, into chlorine for your pool. This chlorine works as a sanitizer just like traditional pool methods. Maintaining the proper salt concentration is important because too much salt can lead to corrosion and not enough salt can result in lower chlorine production and shorter electrode life.
How much salt is in a pool?
Typical salt water pool systems have a salt level of approximately 35,000 ppm, which is considered to be a healthy range.
What is the difference between a salt water pool and a chlorine pool?
The primary difference between a salt water pool system and a chlorine pool is that salt water pools have significantly controlled and reduced chloramines. The traditional chlorine pools often have high chloramines.
Why do pools have chloramines?
Chloramines are the result of the breakdown of molecules because of oxidation in the pool water. And it is the leading cause of skin and eye irritation. Therefore, traditional pools may cause more health-related problems.
Is salt water pool chlorine free?
In a chlorine-based pool, chlorine is added in solid or powdered form, whereas a salt water pool has its own mechanism. It means that the salt water pool is not chlorine-free; it just has a dedicated system in place to do that. That’s why it is the first choice of pool owners.
Does salt water pool have a strong smell?
It doesn’t give you a strong smell, like those chlorine pools. The smell of chlorine can cause headaches, eye infections, and allergies. A salt water pool doesn’t have many harsh effect on clothes. Health benefits alone are a good reason to choose a salt water pool for your home.
Is salt water pool maintenance expensive?
Maintenance: Compared to traditional pools, salt water pools are less expensive in repair and maintenance. As long as you keep the pool clean, you should not expect any surprises. You can go easy with our guide on swimming pool maintenance.
Is saltwater better than traditional pools?
From your hair to your swimsuit saltwater pool takes care of them better than traditional pools.
What is salt water pool?
But in the world of swimming pools, a salt water pool is one that uses a salt chlorine generator instead of traditional chlorine for sanitizing. This means that the pool is still chlorinated, just with a different type of chlorine. The way the salt generator works is by creating its own chlorine with an electrical reaction between the salt in ...
How much does it cost to maintain a salt water pool?
However, you also need to take into account the cost to maintain it. Most of the time, you can operate a salt water system for less than $100 a year, as opposed to about $300-600 a year for chemicals for a traditional chlorine pool.
How do salt test strips work?
Test strips are the easiest way to test pools and they work the same for both chlorine and salt water pools.
How does a salt generator work?
The way the salt generator works is by creating its own chlorine with an electrical reaction between the salt in the salt cell and the electrode in the generator. So, instead of pouring chlorine into your pool or adding tablets, the generator is constantly creating it.
Why is salt water more prone to calcium buildup?
Salt water pools are more prone to calcium buildup because the pH levels tend to get too high. Salt water tends to corrode metal pool equipment. Chlorine is cheaper to purchase than salt cells. Salt generators are more expensive to repair.
Is salt water pool maintenance?
Salt water pools are pretty low maintenance once you’ve found the sweet spot on the generator setting s.
Can you use regular chlorine in a pool?
If you think you need a professional, get estimates and include that in your financial decision. Know that you'll sometimes still have to use regular chlorine. While salt chlorinators do usually have a “super chlorinate” function that will give it a boost, it’s not a substitute for pool shock.
What is salt water pool?
Salt water pool systems are steadily becoming the number one choice for pool owners around the world. The chlorine generators on the market today allow for complete automation of your pool sanitation including self monitoring and automatic chemical balancing. If you are in the market for a pool upgrade we'll explain everything you need to know about the best salt water pool systems including how they work and how to install them in a new or existing pool.
How does a salt water pool work?
How do they work? A salt water pool system consists of two main components; the control panel and salt cell or chlorine generator. The control panel is the heart of the system where you program things like chlorine production and pump run times while also monitoring salt levels and the condition of the cell.
What is Hayward Aquarite Pro?
The Hayward AquaRite Pro comes with everything you need to create luxuriously soft salt water with the option of adding pool chemistry automation with the Sense and Dispense device. It includes the T-cell 15 Turbo Cell that's rated for pools up to 40,000 gallons in size. It features an easy to use touch button control panel that gives you ultimate control over your pool system.
How long is Hayward salt chlorination system warranty?
The systems are all backed by a minimum 3 year warranty on the control box and 2 years for the salt cell. This is unmatched in the industry and proves that Hayward is taking their salt chlorination products seriously. They have the industry covered with basic systems that operate a single salt cell and advanced systems that offer chemistry automation, pool automation and remote control operation.
How does salt water break down into chlorine?
As the salt water passes through the cell it is charged by electricity which causes the salt molecules to break down into chlorine . This natural process can be repeated infinitely as long as everything is balanced in your pool including salinity.
What is the best salt chlorination system?
The Hayward line of salt chlorination systems are hands down the best in the world. While other brands have seemingly stopped improving on the quality and performance, Hayward continues to develop new and improved models that last longer and are more user friendly.
What is Hayward AquaPlus?
Hayward AquaPlus. The Hayward AquaPlus is the most advanced residential system on the market today, and is extremely user friendly while being cost effective . All pool functions are fully programmable and allow for complete pool automation of every device used to keep your salt water pool running smoothly.
What is salt water pool?
Saltwater systems have been becoming increasingly popular in recent years. They offer a number of benefits over a regular chlorine pool. Saltwater swimming pools draw on dissolved salt in the water to generate chlorine. The salt cell or generator utilizes a process called electrolysis to break down or separate the salt also known as sodium chloride ...
What is the difference between a saltwater pool and a non saltwater pool?
An important difference between a non-saltwater pool and a saltwater system is that saltwater pools have reduced amounts of chloramines.
How to add salt to a pool?
The proper method of adding salt is to pour it across the steps or pool floor and brush it in until it is fully dissolved. Even with the daily chlorine generation via the salt cell chlorine levels can become lower in a saltwater pool. When they do the leading cause is typically low salt.
What is the salinity level of a blue science pool?
At Blue Science we manage toward a salinity level of 3,000 to 3,500 parts per million (ppm) or 3 to 3.5 grams per liter in the pool water. While we utilize the on board salinity reader provided with most salt systems we also use a separate independent digital salt reader to test every time we perform a service or maintenance visit to a saltwater pool. This helps us verify the reading because on board readers can become inaccurate as seasons go by.
Is chlorine in a saltwater pool a chemical reaction?
This means a saltwater pool is not actually chlorine free.
What is salt water pool?
What makes them “salt water” is the salt system which consists of the salt cell, the control box, and the salt that is added into the pool in a granular form. This is done in an initial application and then in an ongoing basis as needed. The control box has up and down arrow buttons that are easily accessed. Depending on preference, you can increase or decrease the salt production. Most of these boxes also have a boost mode that allows you to run the system at 100% production, which is the equivalent of manually shocking a pool.
What is the difference between a salt water pool and a chlorine pool?
what is a salt water pool. A salt water pool is fundamentally no different than any other inground swimming pool. The only difference is the way the pool is sanitized. Instead of using chlorine tablets and shock it uses a chlorine generator. Whether or not to get one is really a matter ...
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SALT SYSTEM?
One benefit of a salt system is that the pool owners do not have to handle the chlorine in its physical form. There is no storage of chlorine on the premises and no buying of chlorine tablets or shock on an ongoing basis. In fact once the salt system is up and running and reaches normal balance levels within the water, there is generally less interaction with the chlorine. Although this is still a chlorine pool, the water does feel softer than pools with a traditional chlorine system. Another benefit is that when the salt is added to the water and salinity is at the optimal level there will not be as many continual trips to a pool store to get chlorine or shock which is used with traditional types of chlorinators.
HOW ARE SWIMMING POOLS TRADITIONALLY SANITIZED?
In the standard chlorine system there is generally an inline or offline chlorinator connected to the filtration system. The end user typically fills this with chlorine on a weekly or biweekly basis depending on the size of the pool, and the amount of usage the pool gets. This is the most common way that chlorine gets distributed into a pool.
How does a salt generator work?
The salt system or generator is purchased and gets installed on the pressure side back by the filtration system of the pool. This salt generator basically consists of a control box and a salt cell. The salt cell has metal plates in it which are connected to the control box. The control box sends an electrical charge to the plates which creates chlorine through a process called electrolysis. As pool water passes through the salt cell, the salt in the water is turned into Hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid is the same component that is produced when any chlorine is added to pool water, whether you use sticks, tablets, granular or liquid. As the water returns to the pool, it will introduce the newly produced chlorine.
What happens when you add salt to pool water?
As pool water passes through the salt cell, the salt in the water is turned into Hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid is the same component that is produced when any chlorine is added to pool water, whether you use sticks, tablets, granular or liquid. As the water returns to the pool, it will introduce the newly produced chlorine.
What happens if you have stray current in your pool?
The stray current will attack the anode first. As these anodes are easily replaced they will take the abuse rather than most of the other metals that are in the pool. Pools have stainless steel screws in the face plates, light rings, step trims as well as the anchor sockets which hold the rails and ladders.
What Are the Drawbacks of Pool Salt Water Chlorinator Systems?
Each product on the marketplace usually comes with a bunch of pros and cons. It’s up for each customer to assert them and determine whether he/she is willing to make compromises in that area or not. To that end, salt water chlorinator systems make no exception. Here are some drawbacks you should think about.
What is salt water chlorinator?
When your spare time is limited and you want to make the best use of it, a salt water chlorinator system is a godsend. Distinct from chlorinated pools, this type of system sanitizes your pool so that you can use it freely without your personal involvement.
What is built in pH control?
This way, they prevent calcium buildup. Built-in pH Control Chlorinator System. There are also salt water chlorination systems that feature built-in pH control. Such a device is also meant to regulate the pH level, to ensure that it is healthy for the swimmers. Power Backup Timer Chlorinator.
What is the control panel in salt water chlorination?
The system comprises of two key parts. One of them is the control panel, which features the user interface functionality of the system and the electronics. This is basically what differentiates distinct types of salt water chlorination systems: the way in which the control panel is designed and organized.
Why is solar salt prone to impurities?
Solar salt originates from seawater, and it is evaporated by the sun. This is why it is prone to have impurities such as bacteria or brine shrimp. This could impair the functioning of the salt generator, negatively affecting the salt water filter. Meanwhile, mechanically evaporated salt derives from sea water.
When was salt water chlorination introduced?
It is interesting to point out that salt water chlorine systems have been introduced in the second half of the 20 th century. As you might expect, the very first units were big, bulky and noisy. Nowadays, the salt water chlorination systems we can choose from are entirely different, also in terms of efficiency and size.
How many blades are in a pool cell?
The second part of the system would be the cell. Basically, the cell comprises of three to seven blades of titanium. These blades of titanium feature a thin layer of iridium or ruthenium. As an alternative to a salt water chlorination system, you might also consider investing in a top-notch pool water test kit.
