A saltwater pool uses electrolysis to convert salt into chlorine for sanitizing the pool water, eliminating the need for traditional chlorine tablets or chemicals. The salt cell, a key component, uses an electric current to break down the sodium chloride into chlorine, which then disinfects the water.

Salt Water Pools: Fact vs. Fiction

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

1. Salt is added to the pool water: A specific amount of salt (usually 3,000-5,000 ppm) is added to the pool, and the water’s salt level is maintained through periodic checks and additions.
2. The pool’s circulation system: The pump circulates the saltwater through the plumbing and then through the salt cell.
3. Electrolysis in the salt cell: As the saltwater flows through the salt cell, a low-voltage electric current breaks down the sodium chloride into sodium and chloride ions.
4. Chlorine production: At the anode (positive electrode), the chloride ions are oxidized, producing chlorine gas (Cl₂). This chlorine gas then dissolves in the water, forming hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ions (OCl⁻). These compounds are the same active sanitizing agents found in traditional chlorine pools.
5. Water sanitization: The generated chlorine effectively kills bacteria, algae, and other contaminants, keeping the pool water clean and safe.
6. Maintaining the salt level: While the salt isn’t consumed, it’s important to periodically monitor and maintain the salt level, adding salt as needed, typically once or twice a year, to compensate for evaporation or water loss.

Benefits of saltwater pools:

Gentler on skin and eyes:
Saltwater pools generally have a lower pH and don’t produce chloramines, which can cause skin and eye irritation.

Lower maintenance:
Saltwater pools can be lower maintenance than traditional chlorine pools, as the chlorine generation process is automatic and the need for frequent chlorine additions is reduced.

No strong chlorine smell:
Saltwater pools tend to have a less pungent odor compared to traditional chlorine pools.