Ever wondered why some pool owners seem so relaxed about their pool maintenance? Chances are, they've discovered the secret of salt water pool systems. If you're tired of constantly handling harsh chemicals and dealing with that overwhelming chlorine smell, a salt water pool chlorinator for your swimming pool might be the great choice you've been looking for.
Let’s break down exactly what a salt water chlorinator is, how it works, and why more and more Aussie pool owners are making the switch.
What are Salt Chlorinators for Swimming Pools?
Salt water chlorinators are devices that use electrolysis to convert ordinary salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine, which then sanitises your pool water. Unlike traditional chlorine pools where you manually add chlorine tablets or liquid, a swimming pool salt chlorinator generates chlorine automatically from the salt dissolved in your pool water.
The science behind it is fascinating yet simple. When dissolved salt passes through the chlorinator's electrolytic cell, an electrical current breaks the salt molecules apart. This chemical reaction produces hypochlorous acid – the same sanitising agent found in traditional chlorine – but in a more controlled, consistent manner. The best part? After it does its job, killing bacteria and contaminants, it reverts to salt, and the cycle continues.
This closed-loop system means you'll never have to buy, store, or handle traditional chlorine again. The amount of salt needed is minimal – your pool water will contain about 1/10th the salinity of ocean water, making it barely noticeable to swimmers. Many people even find swimming in a salt water pool more comfortable, with fewer skin and eye irritations compared to traditionally chlorinated pools.
Basic Components of a Salt Water Pool Chlorinator
A typical salt water pool chlorinator setup includes a few key components that work together to keep your pool water crystal clear.
Power Supply/Control Panel
The control panel is the brain of your salt water chlorination system. This computerised unit allows you to:
- Adjust chlorine production levels based on pool size and usage
- Monitor salt levels and system performance
- Program operating hours to sync with your pool pump
- View diagnostic information if something isn't working correctly
Modern control panels are user-friendly with digital displays and intuitive interfaces.
Salt water Chlorinator Cell
The salt water pool cell is where the magic happens. This component contains titanium plates coated with precious metals like ruthenium or iridium. When electricity passes through these plates, the electrolysis process occurs, converting salt into chlorine.
The cell is typically installed in-line with your pool's plumbing system, after the filter and heater. As pool water flows through the cell, the newly created chlorine is distributed evenly throughout your pool. Over time, mineral deposits and calcium scale can build up on the cell plates, reducing efficiency – making regular cleaning essential for optimal performance.
Water Flow Sensor/Switch
Safety is important when dealing with electrical equipment near water. The flow sensor ensures that the chlorinator only operates when water is flowing through the system. This prevents damage to the salt water pool chlorinator cell and extends its lifespan by ensuring it doesn't run dry.
If water flow is interrupted or insufficient, the sensor will trigger the system to shut down automatically. This is an important safety feature that protects your investment and prevents potential hazards.
The Salt
Not just any salt will do for your pool system. Pool-grade salt is specifically designed for chlorination systems – it's purer than table salt and dissolves more completely, preventing staining or residue. The initial salt addition is substantial, but once dissolved, you'll only need to top it up occasionally to replace what's lost through splash-out, backwashing, or rainfall dilution.
The salt concentration is carefully maintained between 3,000-4,000 parts per million (ppm), depending on your specific system's requirements. Most control panels include salt level monitoring to help you maintain the optimal range.
Advantages of Owning a Salt Water Pool Chlorinator
Converting to a salt water system offers numerous benefits that explain why so many pool owners are making the switch:
- Gentler on Skin, Eyes, and Hair: The lower and more consistent chlorine levels mean less irritation, no more red eyes, and no chlorine smell on your skin or swimwear.
- No Handling or Storing Hazardous Chemicals: Say goodbye to lugging chlorine containers home and carefully measuring doses. Your system creates sanitiser automatically.
- Consistent Sanitisation: Rather than the peaks and valleys of traditional chlorination (very high levels right after adding chlorine, then declining until the next dose), salt systems provide steady, optimal levels around the clock.
- Softer-Feeling Water: Many salt water pool owners describe the water as silky or soft – similar to swimming in rainwater rather than chemically treated water.
- Environmentally Friendlier: Less packaging waste from chlorine products and fewer harsh chemicals being transported and stored.
- Long-Term Cost Savings: While the initial investment is higher, ongoing costs are significantly lower without the need to purchase chlorine regularly.
- Less Maintenance Time: With automated sanitisation, you'll spend less time on chemical balancing and more time enjoying your pool.
Whether you're maintaining a residential pool or managing a public one, a swimming pool salt chlorinator offers both peace of mind and real convenience.
Troubleshooting Tips to Do Before You Call in the Professionals
Even the best salt chlorinator systems occasionally encounter issues. Before calling for professional help, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:
Check the Power
It sounds obvious, but always verify that your system is receiving power. Check for:
- Tripped circuit breakers
- Loose power connections
- Indicator lights on the control panel
- Timer settings that might have the unit programmed to be off
Check Salt Levels
If your system indicates low chlorine production, the salt level might be outside the optimal range:
- Too little salt prevents efficient chlorine production
- Too much salt can trigger safety shutoffs in some models
- Use a reliable salt test kit to confirm levels match your manufacturer's recommendations
Check Flow/Switch Sensor
No chlorine production often relates to flow issues:
- Ensure the pump is running and moving water
- Check for clogged skimmer or pump baskets
- Verify the filter is clean and not restricting flow
- Check if the flow sensor is functioning correctly
Check Water Balance
Proper water chemistry is essential for efficient chlorination:
- pH levels should be maintained between 7.2-7.6
- Total alkalinity should be 80-120 ppm
- Calcium hardness should be 200-400 ppm
- Cyanuric acid (stabiliser) should be 30-50 ppm
Imbalanced water can reduce chlorine effectiveness and damage your salt water chlorinator cell.
Check Pump Running Time
Insufficient chlorine might simply mean your system isn't running long enough:
- Most pools need 8-12 hours of filtration daily during swimming season
- Higher temperatures and increased usage require longer chlorinator operation
- Consider adjusting your timer to extend running hours during peak usage
Check Salt System for Proper Size and Programmed Settings
An undersized system or incorrect settings can lead to inadequate chlorination:
- Verify your chlorinator is rated for your pool volume
- Check that production settings match your pool's needs
- Adjust the output percentage higher during periods of heavy usage or extreme heat
Check Salt Water Pool Chlorinator Cell
If chlorine production is low despite adequate salt levels and good water flow:
- Inspect the cell for scale buildup or calcium deposits
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for acid washing the cell if needed
- Look for damaged plates or signs of excessive wear
- Check connection points for corrosion or damage
Many cells can be cleaned and restored to full functionality, extending their service life considerably.
Contact Allstar Pool Parts for Your Pool Equipment
Ready to experience the benefits of a salt water pool system? At Allstar Pool Parts, we stock a comprehensive range of high-quality salt water pool chlorinator options to suit pools of all sizes and types. Our knowledgeable team can help you select the perfect system for your specific needs and budget.
We pride ourselves on offering premium pool equipment at competitive prices, backed by expert advice and ongoing support. From complete salt water systems to replacement chlorinator cells and accessories, we have everything you need to maintain your pool with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment.
Visit our website today or contact our friendly staff to discover how easy it is to upgrade to a salt water system. Your perfect pool experience is just a phone call away!