Although chlorine maintenance programs are often the most common choice for those with pools, there is also the option of using a saltwater system. These systems are gaining in popularity, due to the various advantages, such as more comfortable water in which to swim and ease of maintenance.

Facts about Saltwater Pools

One important fact to note about a saltwater pool is that the level of salt is not as high as what people often think it is. As a general rule, the water in a saltwater pool is about the same as what would be available in a home with a water softener or conditioner. A saltwater pool is also not a chlorine-free pool. Although chlorine chemicals are not added to the pool as part of the maintenance program, the overall pool system includes a chlorine generator. This generator uses a process to combine the hydrogen from the water with the chlorine from the salt. The result of this chemical reaction is what keeps the bacteria and algae levels in the pool under control. Saltwater pool chemistry is safe for all pool construction materials, including gunite.

Maintenance of Saltwater Pools

A saltwater pool system will not require the addition of chlorine chemicals in order to maintain healthy pool water. However, it is just as important to monitor the overall water chemistry levels within the pool for a saltwater system to work. These systems also require the occasional addition of salt to the water, so that the chlorine generator can work properly. It is also important to monitor the pH level of the pool to make sure it stays at the proper low level. And, of course the chlorine generator itself must be maintained.

Keeping the Salinity Level Balanced

As opposed to the constant addition of chlorine chemicals that are required with other pool maintenance systems, keeping a saltwater pool in balance can be much easier. The chlorine generator will provide a continuous supply of chlorine to the water, without the need to manually add it. Salt levels must be monitored to keep the level high enough so that the chlorine generator can work properly, which usually requires the addition of salt a few times a year. Basic maintenance of a saltwater pool includes checking the salt levels monthly, and adjusting the pH so that alkalinity and mineral levels stay at the appropriate levels. Under certain circumstances during a period of more intense pool usage, such as a party, there may be a need for additional chlorination. Fortunately, most chlorine generators included in saltwater pools have a super chlorinate feature which can be activated if the pool needs to be shocked due to extreme pool usage conditions. Most units come with a salt level display built in to the system, so keeping the overall water salinity at the proper level is quite easy.

Overall Advantages of Saltwater Pool Systems

There are many advantages to using a saltwater pool system as opposed to a chlorine maintenance program. There is less work involved overall, and there isn’t a need to maintain a regular schedule of adding pool chemicals. Going away on vacation and coming home to a pool that is still in swimmable condition is possible with a saltwater pool. The water feels softer to swim in, and is less likely to cause the skin and eye irritation than that in a chlorine maintained pool. The pool chemistry stays more constant, which means the water stays cleaner because algae and bacteria never get a chance to start growing, and pH levels also stay more constant.

Mr. Peter Heiss and Mr. Mark MacIsaac – are the preeminent designers in the Pacific Northwest and have spent a lifetime studying and emulating all of nature’s beauty. We can create pools, hot tubs, waterfalls and every other feature out of any rock you choose. At Raincity Rock & Waterscapes