Saltwater vs Chlorine

psw-saltwater vs chlorine

Saltwater vs Chlorine

Getting a pool always comes with the big question, saltwater vs chlorine?

Today we’ll be discussing the pros and cons of specifically using saltwater in your pools versus only chlorine.

Saltwater Vs Chlorine

Saltwater systems make chlorine, the exact same chlorine that is released from pool chlorine products. In a saltwater pool, when H2O + NaOCl are run through the salt cell, the electric charge breaks apart molecules to create chlorine (Cl) and a few other byproducts, which are generally reabsorbed. The chlorine that is instantly created, hypochlorous acid, is the same exact chlorine that is released from chlorine tablets, liquid chlorine, or granular chlorine.

Saltwater Pools Do Have Benefits

  • You can’t taste the salt, but it can make the water feel softer
  • Less storage and handling of hazardous chlorine products
  • Breakpoint chlorination inside the cell reduces chloramines constantly
  • Easily raise or lower chlorine levels, and view status on a digital display

Saltwater Pools Are Not Maintenance Free Pools

  • You still have to monitor the system, and test for salt, chlorine and stabilizer levels
  • You have to maintain good water balance; saltwater pool pH and Alkalinity rises rapidly
  • Salt cells need cleaning to remove scale, although some systems do it automatically
  • The cells about 5 yrs; salt system parts like boards, sensors, and switches may last longer

You May Still Need To Use Chlorine Products

  • To raise the chlorine level very fast for shock treatments
  • Maintaining chlorine level during pump, filter or salt system equipment problems
  • To clear the water during opening or closing the pool, or for treating various water problems

Saltwater can attack Soft & Shiny Surfaces

  • Galvanic corrosion can oxidize chrome surfaces in the pool, although sacrificial anodes can be used
  • Salt residue can slowly corrode soft coping stones or stone decks, although sealers can be used

Have any more questions about saltwater pools? Contact us here!

How To: Storing Your Pool Accessories

swimming pool

Storing Your Pool Accessories

After pool season is over, one of the biggest dilemmas a pool owner can come across occurs, where do I store my pool accessories?

We’re here to help.

Here’s a rundown of pool accessories and how/where to properly store them during the offseason.

Floaties and Other Pool Accessories

The best place to store your pool floaties in a dry place with cool temperatures. You don’t want them to get too hot or cold.

If stored improperly, they can develop holes, warp and even melt.

Filters

After you close your pool for the season, you need to properly store your filter cartridge.

Once you remove the cartridge, you should clean it with a mixture of detergent and water. You can soak it overnight, and then once you take it out of the mixture, you can wipe it down and let it air dry. You should store it in a cool, dry place during the offseason.

Chemicals

The best place to store chemicals is in a cool and dry location. Your storage area should also be well-ventilated to prevent the build-up of gasses that may be hazardous.

Have any questions about properly storing your accessories? Contact us here!