When it comes to swimming pools, there’s no shortage of options. From traditional chlorine pools to the more modern and increasingly popular salt water pools, homeowners and pool enthusiasts have much to consider. However, with the growing trend of saltwater pools, one question stands out: What is a saltwater pool, and how does it differ from a traditional pool?
If you’ve been pondering this question, you’re in the right place. Let us help you understand saltwater pools, their benefits, potential challenges, and how we can help you maintain your saltwater pool for the perfect swimming experience.
What is a Salt Water Pool?
Despite the name, saltwater pools are not saltwater oceans. Instead, they use salt to produce chlorine through a process called electrolysis. Essentially, a saltwater chlorinator device (also known as a salt cell) breaks down the salt and converts it into chlorine, which sanitizes the pool water.
You must manually add chlorine tablets or liquid to the water in a traditional chlorine pool. However, in a saltwater pool, the chlorine is continuously created by the salt, which is why some people refer to saltwater pools as “self-chlorinating.”
While both types of pools use chlorine to sanitize the water, the process of chlorine production and the overall chemical composition differ. Saltwater pools are typically known for their gentler, more consistent chlorine levels and softer water feel.
Maintaining a Saltwater Pool Can Be Complicated
As with any pool, saltwater pools require regular care and maintenance. While they are often marketed as lower maintenance than traditional chlorine pools, several aspects still need your attention.
Balancing Salt and Chemical Levels
A significant challenge for pool owners is ensuring the proper balance of salt and chemicals in the water. While salt is essential for the chlorine generator to work, too little salt can prevent the generator from producing enough chlorine, while too much salt can damage the equipment. This balance can be tricky to maintain without proper testing and monitoring.
Additionally, despite being labeled as “salt water,” these pools still require the regular management of pH levels, alkalinity, and calcium hardness, which can fluctuate over time.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance of Equipment
Salt can be harsh on pool equipment. Over time, saltwater can cause corrosion, especially on metal parts, and build up inside the saltwater chlorinator, leading to maintenance issues and costly repairs. Without regular cleaning of the saltwater system and pool filters, it can lead to lower chlorine production efficiency, poor water quality, and even premature equipment failure.
Dealing with Algae and Debris
Saltwater pools may still experience algae growth, especially in warmer climates like New Orleans, LA, where humidity and heat provide ideal conditions for algae to thrive. Although saltwater pools typically have more stable chlorine levels, they’re not immune to algae, which can be a hassle to remove without professional assistance.
Why Choose a Salt Water Pool?
Now that we’ve covered the potential problems of owning a saltwater pool, let’s highlight its many benefits. Understanding these advantages can help you decide if it is right for your home and your family.
Softer Water and Less Chlorine Odor
One of the most appealing benefits of saltwater pools is the water’s softer feel. Because salt is converted into chlorine, the water typically has a gentler, silkier texture that’s kinder to your skin and eyes than the harsher, more chemically laden water of traditional pools.
Another major perk? Saltwater pools have much less chlorine odor than regular chlorine pools. The constant production of chlorine via electrolysis helps keep the levels stable, reducing the overpowering smell of chemicals in the air and your skin.
Lower Chemical Costs
Saltwater pools can save you money in the long run. Because salt is inexpensive, you’ll spend less on chemicals than traditional chlorine pools. The initial setup cost may be higher due to installing a saltwater chlorinator, but the ongoing maintenance cost is typically lower.
More Environmentally Friendly
Saltwater pools tend to be more environmentally friendly than their chlorine counterparts. Since salt is a naturally occurring mineral and chlorine is produced on-site, there’s less need to transport and dispose of harsh chemicals. Moreover, less reliance on chemical treatments means fewer chemicals in the environment.
Consistent Chlorine Levels
Saltwater pools are known for having more consistent chlorine levels than traditional chlorine pools. The chlorine generator works continually, keeping the water clean without the fluctuations that can happen when chemicals are added manually.
How We Can Help Maintain Your Saltwater Pool
Maintaining a saltwater pool requires the proper knowledge, equipment, and expertise. As a trusted pool service company in New Orleans, LA, we are here to help you maintain your saltwater pool’s cleanliness, functionality, and overall quality. Here’s how we can solve the problems that pool owners face:
Expert Salt and Chemical Balancing
At Safari Pools, we understand the importance of keeping the salt levels in your pool in check. Too much salt can damage your equipment, and too little salt can lead to insufficient chlorine production. Our professional technicians will regularly test the water to ensure your salt levels are ideal, and we’ll monitor the chemical balance to maintain the water’s clarity, comfort, and safety.
Comprehensive Equipment Maintenance
Salt can damage pool equipment, which is why routine maintenance is essential. We provide comprehensive equipment servicing, including cleaning and inspecting your saltwater chlorinator, filters, pumps, and other vital components. We’ll ensure your system runs efficiently, helping you avoid costly repairs.
Efficient Algae Control
Even saltwater pools can experience algae growth, especially in New Orleans, LA, where the climate can encourage rapid algae development. We offer algae control services that keep your water sparkling clean and free of harmful microorganisms. We’ll apply the right treatments and perform necessary cleaning to prevent algae buildup and maintain water hygiene.
Consistent Pool Cleaning
Saltwater pools still need regular cleaning to remove debris, leaves, and dirt.We provide comprehensive pool cleaning services, from skimming debris off the surface to vacuuming the pool floor and cleaning the tiles. We’ll ensure that you are ready for a swim. We’ll always be ready for a swim.
Convenient, Regular Service Packages
We understand that pool maintenance can be time-consuming. That’s why we offer Service packages tailored to your needs. Whether you need weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly visits, we’ve got you covered. You can trust us to keep your saltwater pool in tip-top shape year-round.
Keep Your Salt Water Pool in Perfect Condition
Saltwater pools offer numerous benefits, from softer water to reduced chemical costs, making them a fantastic choice for New Orleans, LA homeowners. However, to fully enjoy these benefits, it’s essential to maintain the proper chemical balance, clean the pool regularly, and service the equipment to ensure everything runs smoothly.
As a leading pool service company in New Orleans, LA, we specialize in maintaining saltwater pools. Whether you need assistance with chemical balancing, equipment cleaning, or algae prevention, our team of professionals is here to keep your pool sparkling clean and well-maintained.
Don’t let pool maintenance be a hassle, trust us to keep your saltwater pool pristine. Contact us today to schedule your pool service, and let us help you keep the water levels just right! Call now to learn more about our services and how we can help you enjoy your saltwater pool to the fullest.