Bring the beach to Phoenix
- April 8, 2014
- Pool Industry News and Tips, Pool Maintenance and Renovation,
There's nothing quite like taking a dip in the ocean, but for those who live too far to drive there, it's possible to bring a piece of the ocean to you with a saltwater pool. Poolman's Phoenix pool service can help you make the switch from chlorine to salt.
How does it work?
Chlorination is used to keep pools clean and prevent the spread of things such as E. Coli and Norovirus, but it's possible to keep it clean with less chlorine. Saltwater pools are not completely chlorine-free, but they contain far less than the average pool. According to the Washington Times, saltwater pools have a generator that, through electrolysis, releases chlorine gas into the water. The pools still contain far less salt than the ocean with 3,000 part per million as opposed to about 35,000 ppm in the ocean. Communications director of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals stated that sales of saltwater pools have exploded over the past five years after getting their start in Australia.
Why saltwater?
One of the benefits of having a saltwater pool is that the chemical smell of chlorine will be less pronounced. This is good news for people with asthma, other respiratory illness or who are simply sensitive to strong odors. Arizona Central said that the higher pH of saltwater reduces the harsh effects that can come from swimming in a regular chlorine pool such as red and stinging eyes, itchy skin and fading bathing suit color. The water is softer and generally considered more comfortable by swimmers.
Switching to a saltwater system can also help you to reduce your impact on the environment without giving up your pool. The Wall Street Journal reported that saltwater pools only use about ten percent of the amount of chemicals found in a typical chlorinated pool. This may not be 100 percent organic, but it's still an eco-friendly compromise.
Algae can be the bane of a pool owner's existence, but according to Pool for Thought, the risk of algae blooms isn't as great in a saltwater pool. Preventing algae in the first place is easier and less time consuming than cleaning it up once it's grown. According to the Washington Times, pool owners need to monitor chlorine levels to ensure algae blooms don't occur especially when the weather turns hotter. Additionally, certain issues salt water pool owners have complained about were the result of mistakes made by the pool owner, and not a result of the saltwater pool itself. Before making the switch, it's important to educate yourself on the different challenges that come with owning a saltwater pool versus a regular pool.
Consult Phoenix pool maintenance to find out how best to maintain your saltwater system.
Saltwater pool maintenance
In order to maintain your saltwater pool you'll need a chlorine generator. Salt Water Pool Plus recommends that pool owners regularly clean the generators to prevent the build up of residue that can inhibit the system and cause bacteria in your pool. It's also important to clean the filter regularly because salt can crystallize in it and prevent it from working properly.