Archive for Salt Water Pools
The Truth About Salt
Posted by: | CommentsFor the last several years, chlorine generators have been gaining momentum in North America as primary sanitizers for all pool types. Pool builders are responding to customer buzz by packaging them into their new construction projects. Field technicians are using them to generate additional service revenue. Even the “pop-up” pool makers are actively in the salt business, selling generators for even the smallest above ground pools. Based on what we hear from customers in our stores, most customers are being told that all you have to do with “salt systems” is add salt, and the pool will take care of itself. “Set it and forget it” just like TV infomercials. But all the buzz and infomercials aside, I think its time for some straight salt talk.
How it works…the truth
This may not surprise most of you reading this, but salt generators are actually creating chlorine! Some people are still surprised by this fact when they start asking about salt systems. Water travels through a “cell” in the pool’s circulation system. The cell contains layers of metallic plates that are electrically charged by the generator’s power Read More→
Pros and Cons of Converting to a Saltwater Pool
Posted by: | CommentsPool owners have many positive and negative aspects they should consider before they convert their pools to salt systems. While swimming in salt water is considered more enjoyable than swimming in traditionally chlorinated pools, the costs of initial installation and keeping up repairs can be off-putting to some homeowners. Here are some of the pros and cons of converting to a saline pool system.
Maintenance
Maintaining your saline pool is easier than maintaining a chlorinated pool. Because your salt system converts the salt to the needed chlorine, you are not having to constantly add more chlorine to your pool. This makes maintenance much easier. You still have to check your pool’s water for the appropriate chemical levels, but you do not have to be constantly pouring in buckets of chemicals to keep your pool safe.
Softer Water
Although saltwater pools do still contain chlorine, their water is much Read More→
Salt Water Pool Treatment Facts
Posted by: | CommentsWhile they were once only used sporadically, today, salt water pools are becoming more and more popular for homeowners. However, although many salt water pool manufacturers promote the ease of converting your pool to a salt water system, the pool treatment methods are not any easier than those of a typical pool. Before your convert your system, it is important to understand how it works and why you should (and should not) consider converting.
Salt treatment begins with understanding exactly how salt water pools’ chlorination systems work. The basis behind this system is that you do not have to add chlorination for this treatment. However, that does not mean that there is no chlorine. Read More→
Salt Levels For Pool
Posted by: | Comments
It is important to keep proper ‘Stabilizer’ (cyanuric acid) levels in pools using Chlorine Salt Generators. This will allow chlorine to stay in the pool longer, thus, will not unnecessary overwork the generator. Consult the Stabilizer Chart for proper (cyanuric acid) levels.
Salt Water Pool Advantage
Posted by: | CommentsThe main advantage of a salt water pool isn’t that it doesn’t use chlorine. In fact, a salt water pool does use chlorine to keep the water clean. The advantage is that the pool owner doesn’t add chlorine to the pool-that means no pre-packaged chlorine, and less irritation for people who are sensitive to the added chemicals. Salt water tends to be much softer than chlorinated water, so it’s much more pleasurable to swim in, and is much less harsh on your skin. In addition, a salt water pool usually has a much lower concentration of chlorine than a chlorinated pool.
Another important benefit is more of a long-term one. In the short term, converting from chlorine to a salt water pool will involve some cash outlay, since there are a few system components you’ll need to by. It’ll run approximately $1400-$1800 to convert a traditional chlorine system to a salt water system. Over two or three years however, the money you spend is recouped due to not having to buy extra chlorine for the pool. Just a bag of salt which is much less expensive.
Just to be clear though, salt water pools do in fact use chlorine to sanitize the water. So if you are not adding chlorine tablets or shock, how does that work? Read More→
Salt Water Pool - Fact vs Fiction
Posted by: | CommentsIf you have been considering purchasing a new salt water pool or if you want to convert your existing chlorine system with a salt system, then you should consider a few common misconceptions. With the sudden popularity of these pools there are a lot of myths that have been propagated by owners and sellers alike.
No more worrying about pH levels.
Keeping salt pools clear of germs and algae requires a balance of germ killing chemicals. Chlorine is the primary disinfectant used in a pool. Many homeowners though find that they are needing to add more chlorine to effectively kill germs. This can be attributed to high pH levels. A balanced pH and alkaline level is essential to maintaining optimum chlorination. Not only that but pH levels will also affect the comfort of swimmers. Levels about 7.8 could lead to eye and skin irritation. Most pool owners convert to salt water pools because they are told they are maintenance free. This is not true. Balanced water is essential and this requires frequent testing.
You can taste both the salt and the chlorine.
A properly maintained salt water pool has a salinity level around 10 per cent of water from the ocean. Most salt water pool owners can attest to the fact that the water in a salt water pool is very similar to that of water that has been softened. Soft water has a better feel and is less harsh on skin and clothing. Salt water pools with the proper level of salt will not have a noticeable difference in taste.
Salt water pools don’t require maintenance. Read More→
