How do saltwater pools work?
Why choose a saltwater pool? How do they work?
It is commonly believed that saltwater pools simply use salt as a sanitiser and that it will be a similar experience to swimming in the sea. However, this is not true, if you are looking at salt water pools to avoid chlorine then I am afraid this is the wrong choice for you. If you would like to read about alternatives to chlorine, then please click here.
Salt pools use automatic chlorine generators, the salt in the pool water is converted to chlorine using electrolysis, the chlorine then kills bacteria before converting back into salt.
What we love about saltwater systems is the money you save on buying chlorine, salt itself is not that expensive and therefore you can enjoy perfectly sanitised water easily and continuously with an automatic system.
There are many automatic dosing systems on the market that will manage and maintain your chlorine input, so if you are looking for easy chemical maintenance but do not want a salt pool but want a dosing system then click here to learn more.
Here are some reasons to incorporate a saltwater system in your pool.
Reduced chlorine smell. Although the chlorine levels remain the same as manual dosing chlorine, the smell is not as overwhelming as the dosing of chlorine is a much slower process, some people with asthma prefer salt pools due to the reduced smell.
It’s great for the skin. Those with sensitive skin may find that a saltwater pool is better for them. Like seawater, it has a gentle exfoliating effect. The water feels softer and has a moisturising effect on the skin. However, it can leave a slight residue on the skin and some people do not appreciate this residue especially in their hair.
Contains low salt levels. Yes, the pool will contain salt, but it is far less than the sea, around a 10th, therefore swimming with your eyes open is easily done and therefore is great for families with children.
Easier to maintain. Saltwater pools are easier to maintain than chlorinated pools, however, you still need to check pH levels, etc. You may experience a salt residue build up in tiled pools, but this is easy to manage by a simple brush and clean. Chlorine pools often experience green algae but salt water pools continue to create the perfect amount of chlorine to stop this occurring.
Health benefits. It is believed that regular swimming in saltwater pools has an impact on a person’s health, it is believed to help with muscles, draw toxins from the body and improve skin conditions.
Cost more. Saltwater pools often cost significantly more than freshwater pools due to the corrosive properties of the salt, therefore specialist equipment and elements are needed to ensure the pool withstands the impact of corrosion. Unlike chlorine pools, saltwater pools require pumps that have been specifically designed to be corrosion resistant and suitable for salt exposure. To find out more about these pumps, click here to read our blog. Any metal parts will need to be marine grade stainless steel to stop rush forming.
Impact on the environment. Although you are not using chlorine directly, saltwater pools can affect the surrounding environment and cause a salinity increase in groundwater, therefore it can impact on the surrounding flora.
As with all decisions it is best to do your research and try a salt pool before deciding to opt for this type of dosing system.
