A majority of pool owners do not know what having a salt water pool entails or what the benefits can be. As salt water pools gain popularity across the country, it is important to understand a little more about them.
One major misconception is that salt water pools do not use chlorine. However, the truth is that they do use chlorine, they just use less. The chlorine is created through your salt generator, which is generally piped into your filter system or they do make ones that are suspended on the pool wall. This generator splits salt water into hydrogen and a hypochlorous acid, a weak acid that is created with chlorine and water. The salt is converted to this hypochlorous acid and then back to salt. This process makes it easier on the pool owner, depending on where you live, because you only have to add salt to a pool once a season. The only factors affecting salt levels are heavy rain and pool use. Significant rain may dilute the salt water, and you may lose water from the pool if it is being heavily used.
Another misconception about salt water pools is that you may taste the salt, and that it may have an ocean-like smell to it. Pools with salt water actually have about ten times less salt than the ocean and do not leave behind a "taste" or smell. There is also less maintenance when using salt since the chlorine is only being produced as needed. This makes the chlorine levels where they need to be and no higher. The chlorine that is produced is much less harsh on the skin since it is a more pure form. In heavily chlorinated, non salt water pools, the water could be very irritating on the skin and eyes and has even been proven to have long term risks.
Aside from having better quality water and less maintenance, there are a few downsides to having a salt water pool. In general, a salt water generator and having it installed can be somewhat expensive upfront. However, in the long run you will spend less on chemicals making it worth the investment. One thing to keep in mind also is that salt systems replace chlorine only. You still have to maintain other chemicals such as pH and alkalinity, pH being a priority as salt being in the pool may raise the pH. Shock also should be added about 3-4 times a month, or as needed, just to make sure there is enough chlorine to keep the pool clean. We recommend testing the water once a week, checking pH and chlorine levels. Lastly, the salt in the water has been known to damage the top of the pool occasionally. This depends on usage and small things like splashing. Any steel may rust and aluminum may start to pit over long periods of time so just keep that in mind.
Overall, if you are able to afford the installation of the salt generator, it could be the best decision you make for yourself and your pool. They are growing significantly in popularity and are very simple to use. Lay out these pros and cons and decide what works best for you and if you need any further assistance or have any other questions please feel free to contact Sparkle Pool Service at 631-981-0685.
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