Salt Water Truths (Part 1) for Salt Chlorine Generators

Salt chlorine generation has fueled more myths in the swimming pool industry than ever before. Toted as the be-all and end-all by manufacturers, pool dealers, false advertising and then by the end consumers has made this product more confusing than ever.

With lack of resources on salt chlorine generation other then loving reviews we have created a salt blog series designed to inform and educate you on your salt chlorine generator. For more information on what salt chlorine generation is and who it is best suited for click here.

In this blog in our Salt Series we look at the truths of salt chlorine generator ownership and how it affects your water chemistry. A salt water pool is not maintenance free, but actually can require more attention to chemistry then a traditional chlorine pool. Here’s why,

 Truth 1- A salt cell generates unstabilized chlorine that diminishes rapidly when exposed to sunlight UV rays. A pool water stabilizer product shields against sunlight to extend the life of generated chlorine and minimize cell run time. Stabilizer levels need to be adjusted at spring opening and checked during season.

Truth 2- The process a cell uses to convert saltwater into chlorine contributes to higher water pH every time a cell runs. A pH reducer corrects high pH to protect surfaces and equipment and maintain bather comfort. Granular pH reducers are preferred for ease of handling and safer storage then liquid acids.

Truth 3- The environment within a cell can cause chalky white calcium-scale deposits to form on a cell’s wall over time, decreasing the chlorine output and efficiency. Use of scale prevention products will defend against damaging scale for efficient, long lasting cell performance.

Truth 4- Chlorine is effective at killing bacteria and algae, but creates unpleasant by-products when it reacts with contaminants like sweat or sunscreen. A shock treatment eliminates contaminants for clear, fresh water. Shocking during the swimming season ensures water quality and reduces stress on the chlorine generator. Chlorine or a non-chlorine shock can be used.

Truth 5- Saltwater pools need water balance levels tested on a regular basis just like traditional chlorine pools. Use test strips to ensure proper water balance for the best swimmer comfort, equipment protection and sanitizer efficiency. Spring start up monthly checkups and prior to closing tests at your professional dealer like R&R Pools is recommended.

Truth 6- The amount of salt in a pool and the amount of chlorine being produced are independent of each other. Adding more salt (above what is recommended in the owner’s manual) does not improve efficiency or increase the generation of chlorine. Test strips or dealer testing will confirm salt levels. Get salt level in the correct range with a high quality pool salt at the start of the season.

Truth 7 – The process of generating chlorine within the cell will cause scale building up that reduces efficiency and shortens cell life. Use of a cell cleaner removes built-up scale to restore cell to peak performance. Starting each season with a properly cleaned cell is recommended.

Salt chlorine pool owners need to understand their pool needs. Poor chemistry balance leads to replacement of equipment and pool liners prematurely. We encourage you to read up on our salt series for hard to find truths designed to inform and protect you and your family.

Nothing is truly maintenance free, but with some basic knowledge and the ongoing support by your professional dealer like R&R Pools, a salt pool can be a backyard pleasure.

Big shout out to Bioguard for displaying these truths in our 2014 Backyard Escapes Magazine. Keep an eye out for our new Salt Scapes Pool Chemical line in store this Spring. We offer free water testing for all our customers and we encourage you to protect your investment with monthly testing.

For more information please feel free to contact us at 902.876.2773 or info@rrpools.ca

Have a great idea or question. Touch base with us at 902.876.2773 or info@rrpools.ca

Everyone deserves a little r&r.

Cheers,  Kara