How Does Salt Turn Into Chlorine?

Automatic chlorine generators work through charged parallel titanium plates, and the process of electrolysis.

The chemical reaction that takes place due to this process creates chlorine.

Common Saltwater Myths

  • Having a saltwater pool does not mean that chlorine or other chemicals are eliminated. The main job of a saltwater system is to generate chlorine, which is necessary to sanitize your pool.
  • Swimmers will not strongly taste “the ocean” when swimming in saltwater pools. The salt is very mild, and comparable to a teardrop from your eye.
  • Saltwater by itself does not sanitize your pool. The electrolysis created through forcing saltwater past a charged metal cell is what creates the chlorine, and completely sanitizes your pool.

How Much Does a Saltwater System Cost?

Typically, these systems cost around $2,000, including the installation process.

Can Salt Water Damage a Pool?

Saltwater is extremely corrosive, and can damage pool walls and concrete rapidly if a leak is present.

When winterizing your swimming pool, the salt water gets pumped into sewers, and rots them further. Saltwater can sometimes get pumped over grass or concrete, where it can cause extensive damage over time.

Saltwater also shortens the life of your pool heater, and any other metallic components.
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Benefits of Saltwater Pools

Saltwater pools provide you with a constant supply of chlorine, meaning that the system controls your chlorine levels itself, making pool maintenance that much easier.

Considerations When Installing a Saltwater System

  • You’ll have to replace any stainless steel pool ladders with 316 marine grade stainless steel ladders, which are more resistant to corrosion.
  • The life of your pool heater and pool pump will be shortened, as the heater can rot quickly without a titanium core, and the pump can seize up if the pump seal leaks.
  • As chlorine is generated, the pH levels in your pool water will rise.

Salt System Maintenance

Salt generating cell systems typically last between 3 and 5 years before they must be replaced, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $900. These cells naturally attract calcium scaling, and should be cleaned with acid every 1 to 2 months for optimal performance.

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Low maintenance pools are our passion. For a personal assessment of your pool and its needs, call UV Pools today!

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