If you’ve recently bought a salt water pool, you’re probably wondering how to keep it running at an appropriate temperature. In this article, I’m going to discuss a few of the most common things you can do to help ensure that your pool runs properly.
Cost
Salt water pools are a great alternative to traditional chlorinated pools. These pools are safer and offer better swimming comfort. However, they can be quite expensive. The cost of salt water pools depends on a number of factors.
The size of the pool you choose has an impact on the costs. Smaller pools can be built for as little as $15,000. Larger pools can cost as much as $100,000.
You’ll need a special pump, filter, and salt cell if you decide to use a salt system. Also, you’ll need to brush your saltwater walls and shock the pool from time to time. Some salt systems are equipped with a Winter Mode that reduces the amount of chlorine produced when the temperature drops below 60 degrees.
Saltwater pools are also easier to maintain. This is because they do not require the handling of chlorine. Instead, the pool produces chlorine sanitizers when it’s running. Although it does not replace the need for chlorine, it can make it a lot more affordable to keep your pool in top shape.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a salt water pool is the type of salt that’s used. Ideally, the salt you put into your pool should be 90-95 percent sodium chloride. A 40-pound bag will cost around $10.
It’s also worth considering the type of deck you want around your pool. Concrete and brick are two materials that are more resistant to salt. Stone is another good option.
Depending on your budget, you may be able to find a kit that includes all the materials and equipment needed for your pool. Most kits will cost between $1,500 and $3,500.
Cloudy or green pool
If you have a salt water pool, you probably know the importance of maintaining the proper level of chlorine. Sadly, this is not always a simple task. It can be very time consuming, but a few tips can help.
First, you need to test the salinity of your water. You can do this by using a conductivity sensor. Check the number to see if it is greater than or less than 100 ppm. When the level is above 100 ppm, you are dealing with a saltier pool.
Next, check the pH. You should aim for a balance between 7.2 and 7.6. Your pool will be cloudy if the pH is too high. The right balance will keep algae from growing.
You may also want to check the total alkalinity. This is a good indication of the quality of your pool. You can raise it by adding sodium bicarbonate or baking soda. Add it in small increments and leave it for several hours before swimming.
Another way to tell if your salt water pool is balanced is by checking the electrical conductivity of the water. In cooler geographic areas, the conductivity of the water is reduced.
For a salt water pool to stay clear of cloudiness, you need to make sure your chlorine levels are balanced. Chlorine demand is the amount of chlorine required to burn organic material.
Some of the chemicals that you can use include ascorbic acid, muriatic acid, and borax. All of these can improve the performance of your TA and pH.
However, these chemicals alone won’t be enough to remove the green colour from your swimming pool. A good pool filter is your best bet.
Higher levels of chlorine
Higher levels of chlorine in salt water pools and cold water temperatures can cause problems. These chemicals are harmful to humans and their health. Therefore, you should only handle these chemicals with care.
Chlorine chemicals can be toxic and irritating. They can also dry out skin and hair. You should test your pool’s water regularly to ensure the correct chemical level.
Free chlorine levels should be between 1-3 PPM. If they are too low, it can cause chloramines, which are irritating and can cause red eyes. A low TA level may also cause eye irritation.
In addition, if you use your pool in the winter, it is important to keep the temperature below 60 degrees F. This is because cold water is difficult for the salt cell to operate. It may also exhaust the salt cell. Consequently, you will need an alternative source of chlorine.
Algae growth is also an issue for saltwater pools. It is usually green, but can also be black or yellow. Depending on the type of algae, you may need to use a different technique to remove it.
If you do not have an automatic system, you can manually add liquid chlorine to your pool. This will help prevent algae growth. Also, check the pH and TA of your pool. When the pH is low, calcium builds up on your water.
Saltwater pools are easier to maintain than chlorinated pools. The main difference is that they don’t require regular salting. However, you will need to change the salt in your pool as it becomes dirty.
Most saltwater pools have built-in temperature sensors. These systems will shut off when the water drops below a certain point.
Chlorinator temperature control
Salt water chlorinators are a great way to keep your pool water healthy. However, they require some regular maintenance and should be kept at a certain temperature. Some systems have a temperature sensor that shuts down the chlorine generator if the water is below a certain temperature. This prevents algae growth and reduces the risk of pathogens.
Generally, a saltwater chlorinator will run at 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The reason for this is that the conductivity of the saltwater decreases as the temperature drops. Therefore, the salt cell has to work harder to produce chlorine. Keeping the water temperature above 60 degrees can help to prolong the lifespan of the salt cell.
In addition, maintaining a good chemical balance is crucial for the chlorinator. If you don’t do this, the chlorine production will be affected. Moreover, the cells can become clogged with scale, which can reduce its performance. Also, a good water flow is required to slow the build-up of scale.
To properly maintain a saltwater chlorinator, you must clean the cell regularly. This can be done by using a mild acid solution. You may need to replace the cell early if you don’t clean it.
Moreover, you should check the level of salt in your pool. Ideally, it should be between 2,700 parts per million (ppm) and 3,400 ppm. Calcium should also be maintained at the proper levels.
Unlike a chlorinated pool, a saltwater pool requires less maintenance and doesn’t irritate swimmers. Most salt water chlorinators are inexpensive to operate. They can last for three to seven years.
When you decide to install a salt system, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, if you live in an area where heavy rain or splash-outs during a party may cause your pool to overflow, make sure to use a cover.
Cleaning your salt cell during the winter
In winter, a salt cell should be cleaned to ensure that it functions efficiently. If calcium deposits appear on the cell’s plates, this can interfere with water flow. Also, the cell’s internal structure can be damaged by cold temperatures.
A salt cell is a device that contains metal plates and metallic gaskets. It produces chlorine by electrolysis. As the water temperature drops, it must work harder to produce a sufficient amount of chlorine. The cells are designed to shut off when the water temperature falls below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Calcium deposits can form on the cell’s metal plates. They can be light or whitish in color and can look flaky. To remove calcium, you can use a high-pressure hose or chemical solution.
Salt cell manufacturers recommend cleaning the cell at least once a season. This is necessary because if the cells aren’t cleaned, the plates may not be completely clean and will not be able to produce sanitizer.
When you want to clean your salt cell, you’ll need a salt cell cleaning unit, which is supplied by the manufacturer. You’ll also need muriatic acid and a clean container to store the acid.
Before you begin to clean your salt cell, you’ll want to shut down the pool pump and power to your pool. These steps will prevent damage to your cell from freezing.
Salt cell cleaning can be done by using an acid wash. For this, add 9 parts water to 1 part muriatic acid and soak the cell for 15 minutes. Once the solution has soaked, you can rinse off the plates.
In winter, you’ll want to bring your salt cell inside and keep it warm to prevent freezing. This will extend the life of the cell and protect it from damage.
