Salt Water Swimming Pools and Chlorine Generators

While swimming pools have traditionally been freshwater, the use of saltwater swimming pools is growing in popularity. There are many misconceptions about salt-water pools. One is that salt-water pools are chlorine free, but this is not true. Salt-water pools actually use chlorine generators. Having a good understanding of how salt-water pools work and what their benefits are is necessary when making the decision between a fresh or salt-water setup for your pool.

Why Choose Salt-Water?

The salt content in the ocean is roughly 35,000 parts per million (“ppm”). However, most humans can really only tolerate a salt content of about 3,500 ppm. Modern chlorine generators in swimming pools require the pool to have a salt content of between 2500 and 6000 ppm. Ideally, the generator being used should require less then 3500 ppm since this is what most people find comfortable.

Swimming in such a pool is comparable to showering using soft water. People using traditional fresh water pools find that the chlorine damages and dries their skin. However, upon exiting a salt-water pool, people find that their skin feels smooth, soft and hydrated.

How the Chlorine Generator Works.

The main purpose of the chlorine generator is to create chlorine for the pool, eliminating the need to purchase it, pour it in, and store the leftover chlorine. Most pool owners are attracted to this feature. When a chlorine generator is functioning properly, it will produce chlorine as long as the pump is running. Rather than the chlorine level rising and falling depending on maintenance, the chlorine level is kept constant and level. Bacteria and algae never have a chance to take over.

The key is the cell that makes up the generator. This must be made of precious metals so that is can be maintained and will continue creating chlorine. Using electrolysis, as water passes over the chlorine generator cell; chlorine is produced and immediately converted to Hypochlorous acid. All chlorine creates this same acid when added to water. Hypochlorous acid is the agent that actually acts as a sanitizer in any pool. Whether your pool is fresh or salt-water, and regardless of your choice of chlorine, it is the same end result. As with a fresh-water pool, the pH is vital to keeping the pool running smoothly and clean.

With a salt-water pool and chlorine generator, maintenance will still be required. However, the chlorine levels in the pool will be more consistent, making the pool cleaner. The water will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth rather than dry and brittle. Finally, the pool will cost less to run since there is no need to buy chlorine every week.