Salt water pools, also known as saline pools, are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional chlorinated pools. While chlorine has long been the primary sanitizer used in pools, salt water pool systems provide a more natural and gentle way to keep pool water clean and clear. In recent years, salt water pools have seen a surge in popularity due to their many benefits over traditional chlorine pools. Here we’ll explore why more and more pool owners are making the switch to salt water.
What is a salt water pool?
A salt water pool is a swimming pool that uses salt as the primary sanitizing agent instead of chlorine. Salt water pools work by converting dissolved salt in the water into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. An electronic chlorine generator uses a mild electric current to convert the dissolved salt into chlorine, which kills bacteria and pathogens in the water. The chlorine then reverts back to salt, resulting in a continuous sanitizing cycle.
The salt levels in a salt water pool are much lower than ocean water, averaging between 3000-4000 parts per million (ppm). While this is significantly higher than a traditional chlorine pool, which has almost no salt, it is still just 10% of the salt concentration found in the ocean. The salt is barely detectable when swimming and gentle on your skin, eyes, and hair.
How does a salt water pool system work?
A salt water chlorination system has 3 main components:
Salt chlorine generator
This is the heart of the system, housed in a self-contained unit along with the control panel. It converts salt in the pool water into chlorine through a process called electrolysis.
Pool pump and filter
These function the same as in a traditional chlorine pool, continuously filtering and circulating water through the system. An in-floor cleaning system is recommended to get the best results.
Salt
Sodium chloride (table salt) is added to the pool water initially and topped up periodically to maintain optimal levels. The salt is dissolved in the water and split by the generator to produce chlorine.
The electrolysis process splits the sodium and chloride ions apart. The sodium ions remain dissolved in the water, while the chloride ions are oxidized into chlorine gas. This chlorine gas immediately dissolves into hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite, which destroy contaminants. After cleaning the pool, the chlorine converts back into chloride, completing the cycle.
What are the benefits of salt water pools?
There are many advantages to having a salt water chlorinated pool:
Gentler on skin, hair, and eyes
The lower chlorine content feels soft and smooth on your skin. Many find it less drying and discover their eyes don’t get as red or irritated. It’s also much kinder on hair, reducing the dryness and discoloration chlorine can cause over time.
Less chlorine odor and irritation
The “chlorine smell” associated with pools comes from chloramines, which form when free chlorine combines with nitrogen-containing compounds from swimmers’ sweat, urine, and personal care products. A salt water pool has lower levels of free chlorine, reducing chloramines and making the water smell fresh. Less chlorine irritation also means less coughing, sneezing, or breathing issues.
Requires less maintenance
Since the system continually manufactures chlorine, you don’t have to buy, transport, or store large containers of harsh chemicals. Once balanced initially, the water requires less frequent adjustments and stays balanced longer. The lower chlorine levels mean you also don’t have to change the water as frequently.
More eco-friendly
Salt water chlorinators don’t require the transport and storage of huge volumes of chlorine. The units with lower salt requirements also minimize the environmental impact. You also won’t get those huge chlorine spikes after shocking that can be detrimental to plants, pool equipment, and swimsuits.
Long-term cost savings
While the initial equipment investment is higher, salt water pools save money in the long run by virtually eliminating the need to purchase traditional sanitizing chemicals. You also save by using less water with reduced draining and refilling. Reduced maintenance requirements also translate into money and time savings.
Crystal clear water
The smooth chlorine delivery prevents over and under chlorination, leading to water that looks clean and sparkling. The constant low levels of sanitizer also prevent algae blooms and waterborne illnesses. Your filter system can easily keep up without becoming overloaded.
Greater swimmer comfort
The silky, soft feel of the water along with the lack of red eyes or itchy skin makes swimming much more enjoyable. Bathers also don’t have to deal with the strong smell of chlorine. It’s a much more pleasant experience for kids and particularly babies.
Improved pool surface life
The lower chemical levels are less aggressive on pool surfaces. Salt water pools are easier on plaster, tile grout, fittings, and liners. This increases the lifespan of these expensive components. Salt water is also completely compatible with aggregate pool finishes.
Ideal for pools with water features
The gentle sanitation is perfect for pools with waterfalls, slides, fountains, or splash pads. Features constantly spraying, squirting, or dripping water can dissipate chlorine quickly, making it hard to maintain adequate levels in traditional pools. With salt water systems, active play areas stay cleaner and safer.
Works in all climates
Chlorine effectiveness and stability can fluctuate in very hot or very cold regions. But salt water chlorinators reliably generate a steady supply of clean chlorine in any climate. Cold winter months that seem to drag on and on are no problem!
Higher owner satisfaction
Most owners find properly installed and maintained salt water pools outperform traditional chlorine pools in all the ways that matter most—gentleness, water quality, ease of care, cost efficiency, and reliability. They provide the clearest, cleanest water with the healthiest environment for swimmers.
Are there any downsides to salt water pools?
While salt water pools have many advantages, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
Higher upfront equipment cost
Installing a full salt water chlorination system does come with a higher initial price tag than traditional chlorine sanitization equipment. However, the ongoing savings on chemicals plus reduced upkeep costs typically offset this over a few years of ownership.
Periodic maintenance required
The chlorine generator requires periodic inspection and cleaning to keep it functioning properly. You’ll also need to check the salt and stabilizer levels regularly and add supplements as needed. A well-maintained system lasts 10 years or more.
Risk of corrosion over time
The higher salt content can potentially accelerate corrosion of metal components like ladders, rails, or drains. Using proper materials and coatings minimizes this. Regularly maintaining proper pH and mineral balances also mitigates corrosion.
Can’t shock with chlorine
Sodium chloride systems require shock treatments using potassium monopersulfate instead of traditional chlorine shock. This ensures you don’t overload the water with chlorine.
Requires salt monitoring
While chlorine and pH stay stable longer, you do need to regularly test and balance the salt levels. Maintaining salt in the optimal 3000-4000 ppm range is important for efficiency.
Not compatible with some specialty chlorine treatments
Some extra shock and algaecide products contain higher chlorine concentrations that could overload the system when used for maintenance. Always check compatibility first.
Higher TDS readings
The salt and other dissolved minerals increase total dissolved solids (TDS) readings. But this is not an indication of poor water quality. Clear water with balanced readings is the best indicator of healthy pool water.
How much does it cost to convert to a salt water pool?
Here are the typical costs involved with salt water pool conversion:
– Salt chlorine generator unit: $1200-$3000
– Installation parts and labor: $500-$1500
– New salt chlorine compatible filter: $1000-$3000
– Initial salt fill and additives: $150-$500
– Total installed cost: $3000-$8000
Many find the expense well worth it for the benefits of silky, clean water with no more burning eyes, itchy skin, or strong chemical smells. After the initial investment, savings of 50-70% on chemicals quickly offset the higher capital costs.
Can you convert an existing pool to salt water?
Yes, most existing traditional chlorine pools can be converted to salt water chlorination. Here are the steps involved:
1. Test pool water to determine starting mineral and chemical readings. Address any major imbalances first.
2. Select the right electronic chlorine generator for your pool size. Match flow rate and pool volume specifications.
3. Install the salt water chlorinator according to manufacturer directions, likely plumbed inline after the filter.
4. Replace any existing chlorine-specific pool accessories with salt-compatible options.
5. Add salt to achieve ideal starting level of 3000-4000 ppm.
6. Balance pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness as needed to optimize system.
7. Run filtration system continuously for 24 hours and re-test levels to confirm ready for use.
8. Start enjoying your converted salt water pool!
With proper installation and maintenance, an existing traditional chlorinated pool can be converted to salt water quickly and smoothly. Be sure to use a qualified pool professional for best results.
How often do you add salt to a saltwater pool?
You’ll need to check salt levels monthly during pool season and add more salt as needed to maintain the ideal range. The frequency of adding salt varies based on pool size, usage, splash out, and rainfall.
On average, expect to add 50-100 pounds of salt once a month to a 15,000-20,000 gallon residential pool. Smaller or larger pools may need less or more. After the pool is newly filled or converted to salt water, you may need to add up to 400 pounds initially to reach target levels.
Test salt levels weekly at first to determine your pool’s natural decrease rate. Then test monthly for ongoing maintenance. Refill the salt as soon as testing indicates drops below 2800 ppm to keep chlorine generation consistent.
What is the ideal salt level for a saltwater pool?
Ideally, salt water pools function best when salt levels are maintained between 3000-4000 parts per million (ppm).
Lower than 2700 ppm, there may not be enough salt to produce adequate chlorine for proper sanitation. Over 4500 ppm can start to taste salty and may begin to corrode metals more rapidly.
Test levels weekly when first starting out to find the ideal range for your pool size and usage. Maintain salt ppm consistently in that 3000-4000 sweet spot for cleanest water and maximum efficiency of your chlorine generator.
Can you use chlorine tablets in a salt water pool?
While not recommended, you can occasionally use traditional chlorine tablets to give your salt water pool an extra sanitizing boost when needed. However, it’s best not to use them regularly. Here’s why:
– The high chlorine levels can overload the water, leaving too much unused chlorine that will dissipate quickly. This wastes money and chemicals.
– Fluctuating chlorine levels can destabilize your water chemistry and make it harder to maintain proper balances long-term.
– The extra chlorine can potentially damage the generator plates or other pool equipment not designed for high chlorine concentrations.
– Adding more chlorine reduces the salt you need for the system to work well. It throws off the ideal ratio.
For routine shocking/oxidizing, use a non-chlorine shock designed for salt water pools. Or activate the chlorine generator’s super chlorinate setting to temporarily boost your chlorine production. Reserve chorine tablets only for the occasional extra disinfection needs.
Is a salt water pool more expensive than a regular chlorine pool?
The initial investment is higher, but a salt water pool saves money in the long run compared to a traditional chlorine pool.
The equipment, installation, and startup salt and chemicals can cost $3000-$8000 upfront for a salt water pool.
However, you’ll save 50-70% yearly on pool chemicals since you no longer have to buy chlorine. You’ll also use less water with reduced draining/refilling. Reduced corrosion of surfaces and equipment saves on repairs and replacement costs. Less frequent maintenance also saves money.
Within 2-3 years, most find their cumulative cost savings surpass the initial capital investment. From then on, a salt water pool continues costing much less yearly than an equivalent chlorine pool. The break-even point makes the higher initial price worthwhile for many pool owners.
Conclusion
While making the switch from traditional chlorine to salt water chlorination does require some initial investment, for most pool owners the many benefits and long term cost savings make it well worthwhile. The pleasant experience of swimming in silky, fresh-smelling water and having reliably clear pool water season after season is invaluable. By converting to a salt water system, you can gain peace of mind knowing your pool is always sparkling clean with no harsh chemicals. No more itchy eyes, smelly chlorine hair, or irritated skin after a dip in the pool. Just smooth, gently sanitized water that feels and smells fresh. With reduced maintenance requirements and damage, you can also spend less time and money on upkeep—and more time enjoying your pool with family and friends.
