As more people install swimming pools and spas in their homes for recreation, exercise, and therapy, maintaining proper water sanitation becomes extremely important. Salt water chlorinators have emerged as a sustainable solution that uses simple salt to generate chlorine and keep pool and spa water clean.
How Do Salt water Chlorinators Work?
Salt water chlorinators, also known as salt chlorine generators, work by converting dissolved salt in water into chlorine through a process called electrolysis. The salt cell, which is plumbed inside the salt chlorinator, passes water over electrode plates, which apply a low voltage current to separate the salt compounds into sodium ions and chlorine ions.
The sodium ions remain dissolved in the water, while the chlorine ions are released as a sanitising agent that destroys bacteria, algae and organic contaminants. The process continually reproduces a chlorine residual to sanitise the incoming water.
Benefits of Salt water Chlorinators
There are many excellent reasons why more pool and spa owners are switching or initially installing saltwater chlorinators.
Convenience: After initial setup, the system runs automatically to generate chlorine without continually buying, transporting and adding chlorine products manually.
Cost Savings: Over the long run, the savings from not having to buy conventional sanitisers add up to major savings. A return on investment can often be reached within 1 to 2 years.
Softer Water Feel: The water feels smoother and silkier on the skin because only sodium chloride salt is added, not larger, harsh mineral salts.
Low Maintenance: With no need for frequent replacements, upkeep becomes hassle-free. Pools maintain a cleaner appearance without the occurrence of calcium clouding or the buildup of scale on surfaces.
Safety & Health: There is no need to handle, transport or store hazardous chlorine compounds on site. Eyes, skin and lungs are not irritated by exposure during manual dosing and adjustments.
Sustainability: Salt chlorinators avoid the continual manufacturing, packaging and transport of chlorine sanitising chemicals, making them an eco-friendly option. The salts used are 100 percent natural compounds.
Considerations Before Installing
While salt chlorinators have become very popular and the technology is mature and proven for residential settings, there are some considerations to keep in mind.
Since salt is corrosive, chlorinators should use electronic cells made from titanium rather than cheaper alloys to withstand the effects. Also confirm that all metal components on your pool or spa are salt-compatible. Covered cells help maximise lifespan in harsh outdoor environments subject to rain, wind and UV rays.
While many find the taste of soft saline water refreshing, those very sensitive to salt may notice a slight taste compared to traditionally sanitised water. It is perfectly safe for drinking in moderation.
Lastly, salt chlorinators are an investment upfront. However, choosing a quality system designed for home pools and hot tubs pays off with years of convenient, cost-effective operation with the benefits highlighted earlier.
Wrapping Up
Saltwater chlorination has clear advantages when it comes to effectively and sustainably sanitising recreational bodies of water like home pools and spas. As the technology continues improving, salt chlorinators are becoming the gold standard adopted by increasing numbers of homeowners and facilities worldwide. Considering one for your next installation or upgrade may be a savvy investment in safety, simplicity and peace of mind.
Rene Bennett is a graduate of New Jersey, where he played volleyball and annoyed a lot of professors. Now as Zobuz’s Editor, he enjoys writing about delicious BBQ, outrageous style trends and all things Buzz worthy.
