Various terms are used to denote salt chlorinators, including salt chlorine generators, salt water chlorinators, and salt generators. Regardless of the nomenclature, the fundamental function remains consistent: a salt water chlorinator produces chlorine (essential for pool sanitation) through the conversion of sodium chloride (common salt). This technology finds favour among pool proprietors seeking to minimise chemical usage and simplify maintenance tasks. These generators are increasing in popularity day by day due to their environmentally friendly nature, how soft they are on the eyes and skin, and the need for fewer pool chemicals to keep your pool clean.
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Process of Salt Chlorinators
As water and salt move around in your pool’s system, they go through a special part called the salt cell, which is located within the salt chlorinator system. This cell houses flat rectangular plates and uses a low-voltage direct current to initiate a process known as electrolysis.
During the electrolysis process, the salt and water split into two things: hydrogen gas and hypochlorous acid. The hydrogen gas just goes out of the pool as bubbles, while the hypochlorous acid cleans the pool water and then turns back into salt. This process happens over and over again as the salt continually goes through the salt cell.
Benefits of Saltwater Chlorinators
- Reduced chemical odor and irritation – Salt water chlorinators use sodium chloride (ordinary table salt) to generate chlorine sanitizer, rather than direct addition of concentrated chlorine compounds. This results in a much lower chlorine odour and less skin and eye irritation compared to regular chlorine pools. The water feels smooth and soft.
- More convenient – With a salt chlorinator, you don’t have to manually add chlorine on a regular basis. The system automatically converts the dissolved salt into chlorine as needed to maintain proper sanitation levels. Once installed, it’s mostly a “set it and forget it” system.
- Lower long-term costs – While salt chlorinators have a higher upfront cost, they can save money in the long run by virtually eliminating the need to purchase chlorine. The only thing you have to add periodically is more salt to replenish the converted chlorine. Bulk salt is significantly more cost-effective than chlorine.
- Better for pool surfaces – High concentrations of chlorine can be corrosive and damaging to pool surfaces and equipment over time. Salt water chlorinators use lower, gentler concentrations to get the same sanitising effect, reducing corrosion and wear and tear.
- More eco-friendly – Because there is no need for plastic chlorine jugs that need disposal, salt water chlorinators have a lower environmental impact. They produce chlorine through a chemical process powered by the pool’s pump and filter. The process also avoids the discharge of harsh chlorine gas into the surrounding area.
- Automatic pH control – Many salt chlorinators have a built-in pH control system that automatically maintains proper water balance along with chlorine levels. This avoids the extra steps of manual pH testing and adjustment.
- Better chlorine retention – Chlorine made from salt in pools doesn’t dissipate as quickly in sunlight as pre-made concentrated chlorine. This generally allows for lower overall chlorine usage with the same sanitising effect.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Salt water chlorinator systems are low maintenance. The most important task is to regularly check the salt concentration and add more as needed to maintain optimal levels. Periodically inspect and clean the generator cells to remove scale buildup. Also, check chlorine output levels with test strips. Higher outputs may indicate a need to clean or replace cells.
The lifespan of a Salt Chlorinator
The lifespan can vary depending on the usage of the swimming pool and water conditions. Typically, it can last 3-7 years with proper maintenance. The key factors that affect lifespan are water chemistry, calcium buildup, and electrical surges. Maintaining proper water balance and cleaning the cell regularly helps maximise lifespan.
Last Word
Salt water chlorinators provide a convenient, automated way to sanitise pool water by converting dissolved salt into chlorine through electrolysis. The main benefits are a steady supply of chlorine without handling harsh chemicals, lower maintenance than traditional chlorine addition. While salt chlorinators are simple to install and operate, periodic monitoring and maintenance like checking salt and chlorine levels, cleaning cells, and troubleshooting issues will keep the system running optimally for years.
