.png)
Salt Water Chlorinators for Swimming Pools
A Clean, Efficient, and Eco-Friendly Solution
When it comes to maintaining a clean and healthy swimming pool, chlorine plays a crucial role in sanitizing the water and keeping harmful bacteria at bay. Traditionally, chlorine is added manually to pools in the form of tablets, liquid, or granules. However, an innovative solution—saltwater chlorination—has revolutionized pool care. By using a salt water chlorinator, pool owners can maintain crystal-clear water with minimal effort and fewer chemicals. This article delves into how salt water chlorinators work, the process of electrolysis that produces chlorine, and the many benefits of choosing a saltwater pool.
How Does a Salt Water Chlorinator Work?
At the heart of the saltwater chlorinator system is a process called electrolysis. This is a chemical reaction that occurs when an electric current passes through a saltwater solution, breaking down the salt into its basic components. Here's a simple explanation of the process:
-
Salt is Added to the Pool: The pool is filled with regular salt, often in amounts less than 1% of the pool's water volume.
Salt levels in saltwater pools typically range from 2,500 to 4,000 ppm (parts per million), which is much lower than the salinity of
seawater.
-
Electrolysis Process: The saltwater passes through a special electrolytic cell in the chlorinator. This
cell contains electrodes that apply an electrical charge to the water, causing a chemical reaction.
-
Chlorine Production: As the current passes through the saltwater, it breaks down the salt (NaCl) into its component
elements—sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl). The chlorine that is produced is then released into the pool water.
-
Sanitization: The chlorine dissolves into the pool water, sanitizing it and killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and algae.
Over time, the chlorine reverts back into salt, and the process repeats, ensuring your pool remains clean without the need for constant
chemical additions.
The Benefits of a Saltwater Pool
🌿 Natural & Soft Feel
Saltwater pools are renowned for their smooth, soft feel. Unlike traditional chlorine pools, which can leave the water feeling harsh and drying to your skin and hair, saltwater pools provide a more natural and gentle experience. The lower concentration of chlorine is gentler on your skin and eyes, making swimming a more enjoyable experience.
🌊 Low Maintenance
One of the greatest advantages of using a saltwater chlorinator is the low maintenance it offers. Since the chlorinator continuously generates chlorine, you no longer need to worry about manually adding chlorine to your pool. This reduces the need for frequent chemical testing and pool cleaning, giving you more time to enjoy your pool.
💧 Cost-Effective Over Time
Though the initial setup cost of a saltwater chlorinator can be higher than a traditional chlorination system, the long-term savings can be significant. Since you don’t need to purchase chlorine on a regular basis, the operational costs of a saltwater pool are lower. Plus, the longevity of the system means fewer replacements and repairs.
🛡️ Environmentally Friendly
Saltwater chlorinators are also eco-friendly, as they reduce the reliance on harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. Traditional pool chemicals can be harmful to both aquatic life and the soil if spilled or misused. With saltwater pools, chlorine is generated in the pool itself, reducing chemical waste.
🧴 Fewer Chemical Irritations
Many pool-goers experience irritation from the strong smell of chlorine or from the chemicals used to keep traditional pools clean. Saltwater pools, on the other hand, have a much subtler chlorine presence and often result in less irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.
Understanding Low Salt/Freshwater Systems
A newer innovation in the world of pool care is the low salt or freshwater pool systems. These systems operate with less than 1% salt, providing a more freshwater-like experience while still reaping the benefits of saltwater chlorination.
In a low salt pool, the salt levels are kept below the threshold for traditional saltwater systems. This means that the pool water feels even softer, and there's almost no noticeable salt content, mimicking the experience of swimming in freshwater while still benefiting from the self-regenerating chlorine system.
The low salt systems use similar electrolytic technology to generate chlorine but rely on very low amounts of salt. These systems are often favored for their mild, almost chlorine-free water feel, and they appeal to swimmers who prefer the taste and feel of natural freshwater.
Key Benefits of Low Salt/Freshwater Pools:
- Minimal Salt Taste: If you're not fond of the salty taste of traditional saltwater pools, a low salt system provides a nearly freshwater-like experience.
- Enhanced Swimmer Comfort: The lower salt content means the water feels more like freshwater, which can be gentler on sensitive skin.
- Cost-Effective Operation: Low salt systems still use less salt than traditional chlorinators, offering savings while maintaining effective sanitation.
Why Choose Saltwater Pools Over Traditional Chlorine Pools?
🔧 Simpler Maintenance
A saltwater chlorinator automates the chlorine production process, meaning you don’t have to regularly check chemical levels or add chlorine manually. The system continually produces chlorine, keeping the pool water clean and balanced.
🏖️ More Enjoyable Swimming Experience
With the gentler feel and less harsh chemical exposure, saltwater pools are generally more comfortable to swim in. The water is less likely to dry out your skin or irritate your eyes, making for a more pleasant swimming experience overall.
💡 Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Saltwater pools are inherently more environmentally friendly due to their reduced reliance on chemicals and the fact that chlorine is generated on-site. Additionally, low salt systems use even less salt, contributing to a more sustainable pool system overall.
In conclusion, investing in a saltwater chlorinator for your pool not only offers a more convenient and eco-friendly way of maintaining a clean pool but also provides you with a superior swimming experience. Whether you go for a standard saltwater system or a low salt/freshwater system, the advantages are clear: soft water, less chemical exposure, and a more natural feel that’s sure to enhance your pool enjoyment for years to come.
Ready to make the switch to a saltwater pool? It’s easier than ever to dive in and enjoy all the benefits of cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable pool water.
Find the best salt chlorinator for your pool:
At Aqua Clear, we carry New Zealands best range of salt water chlorinators from some of the worlds leading manufacturers. We have the perfect system to fit your pool
for more information, give us a call, or check out our full range of salt water chlorination options here