Saltwater pools have soft water soft which makes them very soothing but they have other advantages as well: the water is sanitized with no harsh chemicals, and they are easy to maintain.
There are however, some misconceptions around saltwater pools. The facts are that chlorine is still at work and pool damage is still possible.
How Salt Sanitizers Work
While it is true that the pool owner merely adds salt to the water and saltwater is not pleasant to drink, salt does not sanitize the water. Chlorine does. In a saltwater pool an electrolytic chlorine generator (ECG) produces chlorine by electrolysis.
Different Grades of Salt
Salt is rarely sold absolutely pure. The impurities can affect both the water and surfaces around the pool.
Solar salt is created by evaporating sea water. Organic contaminants are common and can make it difficult for the ECG to do its work. Inorganic contaminants may also be present and lead to staining and scaling.
Rock salt is mined and may contain other trace minerals including sulfates, metals, and calcium. These can stain surfaces and make the water look murky.
Mechanically evaporated salt results from brine that evaporates under controlled conditions with few impurities. It is similar to table salt but without the added iodine and anti-caking ingredients. This is the best salt for saltwater pools but even so, it may contain contaminants.
Caring for Your Pool
It is still necessary to test water quality and to keep an eye on the clarity of the water. You should
- perform weekly pH and chlorine tests
- monthly tests for alkalinity, calcium hardness, dyanuric acid, and metals.
- monthly tests for salinity
Q&A
Q. Why is sanitizing with salt better than chlorine or bromine?
A. The water is soft, pure or sparkling clean, there is little chlorine smell or irritation, no red eyes or dry skin. The discomfort of dealing with chlorine fumes, tablets, or liquid is completely eliminated. The salt doesn’t wear out or evaporate, it gets used over and over again.
Q. What are the correct readings for salt in my pool?
A. Salt readings should be between 2700 – 3200ppm. If your reading is between these numbers DO NOT ADD SALT.
Q. How often should I shock the pool and how do I do it?
You should shock the pool with a salt system either after a party or similar event, every two (2) weeks or if the water is cloudy. Put your unit on Super Chlorinate for 12 (twelve) hours. Return the switch to the auto position the next day.
NOTE: If your reading is below 2700ppm, refer to your owner’s manual for the appropriate amount of salt to add to bring your unit back to its proper operating range.