Saltwater Pools Are a Greener Backyard Option

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Many homeowners love and enjoy their pools, but don't feel so good about the variety of chemicals needed for the upkeep of the system and sanitation of the water.

As the green movement has continued to grow, saltwater swimming pools are becoming a popular option for homeowners across the country. Saltwater swimming pools use little to no chemicals to maintain the pool. A chlorine generator conversion system is all you need to retrofit an existing pool. While some handy homeowners have been known to handle the conversion themselves, to ensure accuracy it may be best to leave the retrofit to a pool installation professional.

A chlorine generator works by producing chlorine from regular salt so that homeowners do not have to buy, use or store chlorine tablets or powder. Through a process of electrolysis, saltwater passing through the chlorine generator separates the salt molecules (sodium chloride) into sodium and chloride. At the same time, hydrogen atoms are freed from the water. Then the hydrogen and chloride atoms freely circulating through the water combine to form sodium hypochlorite, which is better known as chlorine. That chlorine sanitizes the pool and inhibits algae growth. After sanitizing, some of the chloride molecules will eventually rejoin the sodium to return to salt -- beginning the process again. Some residual chlorine will remain to keep the pool clean.

There are two major types of chlorine generators. One is a brine system that keeps a stored amount of salt in the generator, while the other requires salt be added directly to the water.

Although much of the work is hands-off, a saltwater pool is not completely maintenance-free. It's important to regularly check the pH of the pool for the correct water balance to ensure the chlorine generator works effectively. The device will also need to be periodically cleaned of mineral deposits. Some experts advise a constant circulation of the water, meaning that the pool may have to be filtered 24/7 for optimal results.

There are several benefits to saltwater pools that go beyond the green factor. The lower levels of chlorine generated are less likely to cause irritated, red eyes while swimming or give off that chemical chlorine aroma. Discoloration of hair or swimsuits is also eliminated. Most chlorine generators require a salt content of 2500 to 6000 ppm in the pool. Most people can tolerate a salt taste threshold of 3500 ppm, so a pool that is in the higher end may not be as pleasant to swim in.

Saltwater pools will not produce that dried-out feeling that often comes with swimming in a regularly chlorinated pool. Saltwater creates mild soft water, so many pool enthusiasts report feeling refreshed and their skin soft upon exiting the water.