Understanding the Differences With Salt Water and Liquid Chlorine Pools
Pools have many components, but the major one is the sanitization systems that keep the pool clean. Saltwater and chlorine systems are the pool’s standard systems in competition. Here is a review of the uniqueness between salt water and liquid chlorine pools.
Chlorine and Salt Levels
Most people think salt water lacks chlorine, but the system remains the most popular chlorine system. The difference is that a saltwater pool has less chlorine than a conventional chlorine pool because the chemical is not added to the pool but produced at a steady level. The saltwater process adds salt to the pool and relies on the machine to produce hypochlorous acid to sanitize the pool. The sanitization process connects electricity to the pool to break down the salt particles, called electrolysis. The salt level in the water pool is equivalent to the salt in human tears, which amounts to one-tenth of the ocean water salinity. This is why swimmers have soft skin after a bath in the pool.
Health Issues
The chlorine level in the saltwater pool makes it gentle on your skin as you swim. The reaction has no effect on swimmers with allergies but creates soft and smoother skin after taking a dip in the pool. Saltwater pools also affect the harshness of swimsuit fading. On the other hand, chlorine in higher concentrations in the traditional pool can lead to skin itch, dryness or burn.
Another benefit is that the salt system requires less storage attention with no special consideration. Still, chlorine requires storage measures to maintain concentration and effectiveness and prevent it from becoming harmful to homeowners who may come in contact with the fumes. The chemical is stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated storage. In short, staffing and storage requirements are written on the container, and they should be followed to prevent hazardous outcomes.
Maintenance
Unlike the traditional chlorine pool, a Saltwater pool requires a low maintenance cost. A modern salt water system can remain clean and sparkling for up to two weeks without manually wiping the pool. However, a chlorine pool needs weekly maintenance by adding a chlorine tablet or stick to keep it clean. In addition, you have to check the chlorine level in both pools regularly to keep it at a healthy level to have a clean and clear pool. Another difference in a salt water pool, the generator box contains chlorine, and the salt is added to the water. While in chlorine systems, the chemical is added by hand or by an individual.
The traditional chlorine pool works on regular shocks to maintain the chlorine concentration and eliminate algae. The pool caretaker adds chlorine to a bucket, waits for it to dissolve and adds it slowly to the pool. A saltwater pool also needs the shock but less often. The shock is helpful after heavy rain or when algae begin to grow and turn the pool green.
A challenge faced by saltwater pool owners is the complexity of the problem compared to a conventional chlorine pool, and most times can only be fixed by a professional. Chlorine pool problems can easily be handled by homeowners with home testing kits and the required chemicals.
For more information on maintenance help for pools please contact us anytime.
More Information on Pool Maintenance:
How to clean poop out of the pool
Uncharted waters – new pool owner responsibilities
Pool Service and cleaning for Lake Havasu City
Black Algae and Your Lake Havasu Pool
Does Chlorine make your eyes sting?