A salt pool isn’t sea water. Sea water has about 3.5% salt, while a salt pool only has about 0.3%, about 12x less. The salt is barely detectable. That very small amount of salt is constantly converted to chlorine in the pump system in just enough, barely detectable amounts to keep the pool bacteria free.
BENEFITS:
No chlorine burn or irritation. The water is great for your skin and hair.
Chlorine Pools: when chlorine is added to a chlorine pool a very large amount is put in-way more then necessary to kill the bacteria. This is because chlorine breaks down very quickly, especially in sunshine, so that by the time the pool man comes back much of the chlorine is gone. Many people also put chlorine packs in floaties or in the pool skimmer to extend the time between service. If it goes too long a shock treatment is required- adding massive amounts of chlorine to kill the bacteria that has built up. This is why people wear eye goggles in chlorine pools. You can always tell when someone has been swimming because they smell like chlorine.
Many people in south Florida have changed to salt pools because of the great benefits of the pool. Salt pools are not as popular up north because of the much higher initial costs and the shorter summer months.
Salt water advantages
- Salt water is gentler on skin, hair and eyes.
- Salt water doesn’t have the same bleaching effect on clothing and pool toys.
- Salt water feels softer.
- You don’t have to handle harsh chemicals.
- Salt water pools require less maintenance.
- Salt water is usually much safer.
- No smelly chloramines.
Chemistry:
4NaCl → 4Na+ + 4Cl− Salt dissolves in water.
4Na+ + 4Cl− → 4Na + 2Cl2 By electrolysis.