Why should I choose to treat the water in my pool by salt chlorination?

Treatment of pool water by salt chlorination is increasingly being selected by pool owners as their preferred method. This technique uses salt and a salt chlorinator to produce chlorine, which is essential for disinfecting the water. Chlorinators can also be paired with water parameter regulation systems to continuously provide precise and effective treatment.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this system? Here is an overview giving you more details of how this works! From more pleasant bathing to easier maintenance, it will definitely make some waves!

Understanding how salt chlorination works

Basic principle of salt chlorination

Salt chlorination in pools transforms salt dissolved in the water into disinfecting chlorine. When an electric current passes through salt water, it separates salt ions into chlorine and sodium. Chlorine produced in this way disinfects the pool water by eliminating bacteria and algae. This process reduces the need to add chlorine while keeping the water clean and safe.

Production of natural chlorine in the pool water

With this method, the salt chlorinator produces chlorine naturally in the pool water, which keeps it clean and disinfected. The device contains an electrolysis cell where the salt dissolved in the water is transformed into chlorine. When salty water passes through this cell, an electric current is applied, which produces chlorine.

Role of the electrolysis cell

The electrolysis cell plays a key role in the water treatment system of a salt water pool. It converts the dissolved salt into disinfecting chlorine when an electric current is applied. The chlorine generated by this process kills bacteria and algae, keeping the pool water clean and healthy. The electrolysis cell operates continuously, providing constant chlorine production as required. This reduces the need for manual addition of chemicals, making pool maintenance easier.

The advantages of salt chlorination

Improved comfort for bathers

Odourless water of superior quality can be obtained using salt chlorination. The chlorine generated is less irritating for the skin and eyes, so you can enjoy a more pleasant bathing experience. Imagine water so clear and soft that even the most sensitive skin will thank you!

Simplified maintenance

The salt chlorination system operates quasi-automatically. Once salt has been added to the pool, the chlorinator will take care of producing chlorine as required for disinfection of the water, thus reducing handling of chemicals and making maintenance easier.

Long-term savings

Although installation of a chlorinator does involve an initial investment, the operating costs are often lower than those of classic chlorine treatment. Salt is less costly and more stable, making for long-term savings.

Respect of the environment

The use of salt to disinfect the water is more eco-friendly, thus reducing dependence on traditional chemicals.

In summary, less chlorine to purchase, fewer worries, greater happiness!

The disadvantages of salt chlorination

Initial investment

Installing a chlorinator requires a certain financial investment when purchasing and setting up the device. But consider this an investment for years of peace of mind!

Maintenance of the equipment

The salt chlorinator requires regular maintenance. The electrolysis cells must be regularly cleaned to avoid calcium deposits and guarantee optimal operation. (Only in the case of water that does not fall within the acceptable range of the Langelier index).

Corrosion-resistant materials

Salt can be corrosive for certain materials used in pools. It is therefore important to choose corrosion-resistant materials or to protect vulnerable materials.

Selecting the right salt chlorinator for my pool

Criteria to take into account prior to making a purchase

1. Capacity of the salt chlorinator depending on the size of the pool: The capacity of the salt chlorinator must correspond to the size of the pool, in cubic metres. An under-dimensioned device will be ineffective, whereas an over-dimensioned model will lead to unnecessary costs. The characteristics of the water, such as the maximum acceptable salinity, and additional functions such as pH control and remote management, are also key points.
2. Compatibility with the existing pool equipment: It is also important to check that the salt chlorinator will be compatible with the existing pool equipment, such as the pump, filter and heating systems. Good integration guarantees harmonious operation and avoids costly modifications and technical issues.

Hayward's salt chlorination water treatment solutions

Hayward offers a comprehensive range to optimise pool water treatment by salt chlorination. These chlorinators are designed to offer reliable and long-lasting performances, whilst requiring minimal maintenance. The AquaRite® + NG, AquaRite® LT, AquaRite® Flo NG, AquaRite® Flo Advanced NG, AquaRite® Pro Touch and Salt & Swim® 2.0 solutions are perfectly suited to specific requirements thanks to the numerous options and configurations they offer.

AquaRite® + NG Salt Chlorinator

Hayward salt chlorinators are designed to operate in salinity conditions of up to 100g NaCI/l. For reference, the water in the Mideterranean Sea has a salinity rate of 39g NaCI/l and the water in the Atlantic Ocean has a salinity rate of 35g NaCI/l, which demonstrates the robustness and flexibility of Hayward's solutions.

The new salt chlorinator AquaRite® + NG, for its part, is more than a simple chlorine generator operating as the multifunctional brain of the pool, which is able to manage the pH, chlorine, filtration periods, heat pump and lighting, all managed from a tablet or a smartphone. Yes, for the pool geeks out there, there is an app for this: Hayward poolwatch!

Choosing a salt chlorinator reduces your environmental impact and custs your pool operating costs in the long-term. So, are you ready to dive into the world of salt chlorination?