A saltwater pool is not a chlorine-free pool. Salt chlorine generators offer an alternative method of sanitizing a pool by using salt to produce its own chlorine automatically. A saltwater pool works much the same way as any other swimming pool, but instead of adding chlorine tablets, you'll add a fine-grain salt. If your salt pool is properly maintained, it shouldn’t taste or smell salty at all.
The most common myth regarding salt pools is that they are a better choice if you have sensitivities or allergies to chlorine. Salt pools are, in fact, sanitized using chlorine. A salt-chlorine generator separates the chlorine and sodium molecules in salt and reintroduces them into the pool water. It is still the chlorine that sanitizes your pool!
Another misconception is that salt pools do not require other chemicals. This is completely false and not using other chemicals could damage your pool or be potentially harmful. There is no magic inside a salt-chlorine generator that balances pool water. All parameters should be checked and balanced regularly. Additionally, salt pools need to be shocked on a regular basis and salt-chlorine generators typically do not have the ability to effectively shock your pool. All pools, no matter what the sanitizer, need to be shocked regularly– preferably once per week during warm weather.
If you already have a pool, you can convert your standard pool to a salt pool. Two components will be added to your existing system, a salt cell and a control unit. The salt cell is attached to the pipes between your filter and water outlet and the control unit allows you to monitor the salt cell. The price for a salt system will vary based on features and brands. Check with your local Pinch A Penny expert for the latest products and pricing.
It is also important to use a product like Suncoast Liquid Stabilizer in your salt pool. This will extend the life of your salt generated sanitizer and save you money by avoiding excessive chlorine demand. You can purchase the Salinity line of pool care products exclusively at your neighborhood Pinch A Penny store.
In short, a salt water pool is just another way to keep your pool clean and sparkling. Although the initial set-up is more expensive than a traditional chlorine pool, owners have found that the time it takes to maintain it is less. If you are interested in installing a salt system in your new pool or converting your current pump system, stop into a Pinch A Penny location. The experts at your local store will give you all the guidance and expertise you need to successfully instate a salt-cell system.
